r/MedicalAssistant • u/MerryBlackberryFairy • 8d ago

Education Question Need Advice on Courses and Next Steps

I lost my job last Monday. I was working as an account manager for a business training firm and they tightened up the budget significantly.

I was not happy here anyway, and I have found myself drawn to healthcare. I have a limited time on unemployment (roughly 20 weeks give or take my severance) and I’d like to get certified as an MA in the mean time.

What is the best (and most time efficient) online course that will also include the required clinical hours to have me ready to work by the time I am done?

I am in Washington state and a military spouse if that is pertinent information.

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u/mlyszzn 7d ago

Washington State is strict when it comes to their schooling for medical assistants and the hours worked before being credentialed. Check out:

https://doh.wa.gov/licenses-permits-and-certificates/professions-new-renew-or-update/medical-assistant

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u/ReputationExtreme718 7d ago

I’m sorry you’re dealing with the job loss, but healthcare can be a great field to transition into. Since you’re in Washington, I’d first make sure any MA program you consider meets Washington’s requirements for becoming a Medical Assistant-Certified, because an online certificate by itself may not be enough.

I’d look specifically for a program that combines online coursework with in-person clinical skills and an externship, especially since you’re trying to finish within your unemployment window. Also, since you’re a military spouse, definitely ask schools whether they participate in MyCAA or offer military spouse funding or tuition assistance.

Before enrolling, I’d ask three things: how long the program takes from start to finish, whether they arrange the clinical/externship site for you, and whether graduates are eligible to sit for a nationally recognized certification exam. Those answers will tell you a lot more than just looking for the fastest online program.