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If you want to get into the healthcare field quickly, medical assisting is one of the fastest ways to start. The training is short, you can work in many types of clinics, and the skills are in demand.
In Virginia, you don't have to be licensed to work as a medical assistant, but employers hire people with solid training and recognized certification. The right school will prepare you for both.
What Medical Assistants Do
Medical assistants help doctors and nurses keep clinics running smoothly. Work can include:
- Taking patient vital signs
- Recording medical histories
- Assisting with exams
- Drawing blood
- Entering patient data
- Scheduling and billing
You may work in a doctor's office, urgent care, outpatient surgery center, or specialty clinic.
How to Choose a Medical Assistant School in Virginia
When comparing training options, look for:
- Accreditation - Schools should be accredited by agencies like CAAHEP or ABHES.
- Preparation for certification exams - Good programs prepare you for tests like the CMA (AAMA) or RMA (AMT).
- Externships - Hands-on clinical experience is essential.
- Flexible schedule - Many students work while training.
- Location and cost - Keep commute time and tuition in mind.
The choice of school can affect your job opportunities. Some Virginia employers prefer graduates from accredited programs who already hold a national certification.
Length of Medical Assistant Programs
Here's what you can expect for training time:
| Program Type | Typical Length | Includes Clinical Hours? |
| Certificate/Diploma | 9-12 months | Yes |
| Associate Degree | 18-24 months | Yes |
A certificate or diploma is usually enough to get started. An associate degree can open doors to supervisory roles later.
Best Medical Assistant Schools in Virginia
Below are some well-regarded options. Always confirm current program details with the school directly.
1. ECPI University - Medical Assisting Program
- Locations: Multiple campuses in Virginia, including Richmond, Newport News, and Northern Virginia
- Format: Diploma or Associate of Applied Science in Medical Assisting
- Highlights: Accelerated schedules, hands-on learning labs, certification prep
- Location: Virginia Beach, VA
- Format: Career Studies Certificate in Medical Assisting
- Highlights: Affordable tuition, experienced faculty, local clinical placements
3. Bryant & Stratton College
- Locations: Virginia Beach and Richmond
- Format: Associate Degree in Medical Assisting
- Highlights: Smaller class sizes, built-in externship, CMA exam preparation
4. Centura College
- Locations: Chesapeake, Newport News, Norfolk, Richmond
- Format: Diploma in Medical Assisting
- Highlights: Flexible scheduling, blended learning, short completion time
- Location: Chester and Midlothian, VA
- Format: Career Studies Certificate in Medical Assisting
- Highlights: Affordable, offers pathways into other healthcare programs
Certification Options After School
While Virginia doesn't require a license, having a nationally recognized certification makes you more competitive. Common certifications include:
- Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) - Offered by the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA)
- Registered Medical Assistant (RMA) - Offered by the American Medical Technologists (AMT)
- National Certified Medical Assistant (NCMA) - Offered by the National Center for Competency Testing (NCCT)
- Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) - Offered by the National Healthcareer Association (NHA)
To be eligible, you must graduate from an accredited program and pass an exam.
Steps to Become a Medical Assistant in Virginia
- Finish high school or earn a GED.
- Choose an accredited medical assistant program that fits your schedule and budget.
- Complete classroom and clinical training (usually 9 to 24 months).
- Apply for and pass a certification exam like the CMA or RMA.
- Apply for jobs in clinics, doctors' offices, or urgent care centers.
- Keep certifications current with continuing education.
Tips for Success in Training and Job Hunting
- Take your externship seriously. Many students get hired where they intern.
- Stay organized. Medical assistants juggle both clinical and administrative duties.
- Learn medical terminology early. It will make coursework easier.
- Network with classmates and instructors. They often know about job openings before they're posted.
The Bottom Line
In Virginia, you can start a medical assisting career in less than a year if you choose a diploma program. An associate degree will take longer but can lead to more options. Always make sure the program is accredited and includes both classroom and hands-on training.
Here's what you should do next: research at least three accredited medical assistant programs in your area, visit the campus if possible, and talk with admissions about externships and certification prep. The right choice now will make it easier to land your first job in healthcare.
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