Those who wish to become a medical assistant must be at least 18 years of age and have a high school diploma. They should be able to communicate well so that they can explain the reasons and purpose of upcoming medical exams and procedures to patients under the doctor’s care.
If a patient calls in sick, or a mother has a sick child the administrative medical assistant will pull their chart and fit them into the doctor’s schedule to be seen that day.
Nevertheless entering incorrect patient demographics, or medical histories into the medical chart can be just as detrimental as clinical errors. Medical assistants and their supervisors must be vigilant, engaged, alert and well informed.