Working in a medical office environment can be a great place to start in the health care industry. For many patients, the medical office is the first place that they visit to receive regular checkups from their doctors, which is why the need for qualified medical assistants, nurses, medical billing and coding specialists and office administrators continues. Although popular television shows glamorize the fast-paced environments of hospitals, medical offices also provide a rewarding future in the following ways:
- Job Growth and Stability
In this troubled economy, the fate of many occupations remains uncertain, yet the health care industry is expected to grow in spite of this. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, half of the 20 fastest growing jobs are in health care, largely due to the aging “Baby Boomer” generation. More importantly, outpatient facilities such as medical offices are projected over the next 10 years to receive the lion’s share of this growth as advancements in surgery and diagnostic technology will reduce the number of hospital visits. - Short-Term Training Available
Medical offices offer many positions that only require certification or a two-year degree. To start in entry-level medical billing and coding, for example, most candidates need an associate’s degree from an accredited college or university, though employers prefer those who have also completed a credential program. Since many career seekers have to juggle their education around family and financial responsibilities, four or more years of schooling can become too much of a burden. - Steady Schedules and Familiar Faces
Unlike hospitals and clinics that operate on a 24-hour schedule and require employees to take shifts at odd times, medical offices are usually open during standard business hours. Career changers used to a “9 to 5” workday and those who prefer to spend their evenings relaxing and spending time with their families will feel more comfortable in this environment. Also, medical offices tend to have regular patients and staff, giving employees more opportunities to connect with familiar faces. - Helping Those in Need
One of main reasons to work in the health care industry is that it allows employees to make a meaningful impact on the lives of others. Although physicians, nurses and medical assistants provide patients with direct care, office administrators and receptionists can offer helpful information and a friendly face for those who are anxious about visiting the doctor. Even medical billing and coding specialists help patients by ensuring that financial transactions run smoothly. - Mental Challenges
Because employment in a medical office requires specialized training to use complex information systems and equipment, career seekers interested in intellectually challenging work will find it. Successful employees need to stay up-to-date on new procedures, as well as ever-changing government regulations. For example, credentialed medical billing and coding specialists must take Continuing Education Units (CEUs) through organizations such as the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC) to retain their certification. - Career Advancement Opportunities
The multifaceted nature of the health care industry enables workers to pursue a variety of avenues that offer higher salaries and greater job stability. Nearly every medical office position uses credential programs to allow candidates with more experience to enter into specialized fields. The National Cancer Registrars Association, for example, provides information for medical coders interested in obtaining certification to handle databases designed for cancer patients.
For these reasons and more, working in a medical office can be a rewarding experience; not only for those who wish to begin a career in the health care industry, but also for seasoned employees who want a more intimate environment.
Brandi Tolleson has a master’s degree in journalism, and writes on various topics, including health, education and history.
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