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Medical assistants work in physician offices, clinics and outpatient centers. The job combines patient care with administrative work, which makes it one of the most common ways to start a career in healthcare.
What does a medical assistant do?
- Clinical tasks: taking vital signs, recording medical histories, preparing patients and exam rooms, and assisting the provider during exams.
- Administrative tasks: scheduling appointments, updating electronic health records, handling insurance forms and answering patient calls.
- With the required training and authorization, some clinical tasks such as giving injections or drawing blood.
Do medical assistants need a license in California?
No. California does not license medical assistants. However, the Medical Board of California sets rules for what they may do:
- Medical assistants must work under the supervision of a licensed physician, podiatrist, physician assistant, nurse practitioner or nurse midwife.
- Before giving injections, performing skin tests or drawing blood, a medical assistant must complete the minimum training required by state regulations.
- For injections and skin tests, the supervising provider must be on the premises and must give specific authorization.
Certification options
Certification is voluntary in California, but many employers prefer it. The Medical Board recognizes these certifying organizations:
- American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA) – CMA credential
- American Medical Certification Association (AMCA)
- American Medical Technologists (AMT) – RMA credential
- California Certifying Board for Medical Assistants (CCBMA)
- Multiskilled Medical Certification Institute (MMCI)
Training options in the Modesto area
Programs are offered as short certificate courses at private career schools, typically lasting from several months to about a year, and as certificate or associate degree programs at community colleges. A good program includes hands-on lab practice and an externship in a real clinic.
Questions to ask before you enroll
- Is the school approved by the California Bureau for Private Postsecondary Education (BPPE), or is the program offered by a public community college?
- Does the program include the clinical or externship hours you will need for certification or licensure?
- What percentage of recent graduates passed the certification exam and found work in the field? BPPE-approved schools must give you a School Performance Fact Sheet before you enroll.
- What is the total cost, including books, uniforms, exam and licensing fees, and what is the refund policy?
For job outlook and pay data, see the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Requirements change. Always confirm the current rules with the official agency before you enroll in a program.