One of the significant advantages of online medical assistant classes is the flexibility they offer. Traditional in-person courses often follow a fixed schedule, making it challenging for working professionals or individuals with busy lives to attend classes regularly. With online classes, you can access lectures and coursework at your convenience. This flexibility allows you to balance your job, family, and education more effectively.
Online medical assistant programs can be more cost-effective than their in-person counterparts. You can save money on commuting, parking, and even course materials since many online resources are available for free or at reduced prices. Moreover, you have the freedom to choose programs from institutions across the country, giving you the opportunity to find more affordable options.
Online Medical Assistant Courses
Fortunately, if you’re interested in looking into online medical assistant programs in Chicago, you have several options.
Midwestern Career College
Midwestern Career College offers a 40-week online Medical Assisting program that prepares students for roles as medical and office assistants in various healthcare settings. Notably, the program includes phlebotomy training, adding to students’ skillset. With flexible options for campus locations and study formats, including evening classes, MCC caters to diverse student needs. Graduates are eligible for certifications such as RMA, NCMA, CMA, and phlebotomy certification from AMT, enhancing their employability in the medical field.
Medical assistants play a crucial role in healthcare, performing tasks like patient communication, medication administration, and specimen collection. The program covers essential topics such as anatomy, clinical procedures, health records, insurance, and communication skills. Graduates can pursue certifications like NCMA, NCPT, and NCET through NCCT, boosting their career prospects in the medical field. For program details, including fees and contact information, visit Midwestern Career College – Medical Assisting Program. This program offers a strong foundation for those looking to enter the medical field with practical skills and certifications.
Esperanza Health Centers
Esperanza Health Centers in Chicago, IL, in partnership with the National Institute for Medical Assistant Advancement (NIMAA), offers a Free Medical Assistant Training Program aimed at making medical assistant careers accessible to the local community. The program covers tuition and fees for twenty students annually, with opportunities to sit for medical assistant certification exams.
Eligible candidates must meet specific criteria, including Illinois residency, being at least 18 years old, having a high school diploma or equivalent, English and Spanish proficiency, and access to a computer and the internet. For inquiries, contact NIMAA at [email protected] or [email protected]. This initiative provides a cost-free path to a rewarding medical career for eligible individuals.
Choosing between online and traditional medical assistant programs? Here’s what matters most:
Learning Style & Flexibility
- Online: Flexible for busy schedules but requires self-discipline.
- In-Person: Structured with face-to-face interaction for hands-on learners.
Hands-On Training
- In-Person: More lab work and clinical experience.
- Online: Limited hands-on training, though hybrid options may be available.
Cost & Financial Aid
- Online: Lower costs, no commuting.
- In-Person: May offer financial aid and scholarships.
Student Support & Tech Needs
- Online: Needs reliable internet and offers virtual support.
- In-Person: Immediate access to instructors and resources.
Certification Preparation
- Only choose a program that prepare for CMA or RMA certifications and offer externships.
Bottom Line
Pick a program that fits your schedule, budget, and career goals while ensuring it provides the necessary hands-on experience and certification prep.