These programs were created to meet a specific short-term training need by combining core courses from two or more established MTC programs. In the College's area of Health Technologies, one of three One-Year Technical Certificates is available in Medical Assisting . To keep pace with ever-changing technology and business demands, medical professionals need support people with the flexible clinical and administrative skills to keep health care delivery running smoothly. There are more than 200,000 Medical Assistant jobs, with projected growth of more than 36 percent through the year 2006 . Seventy percent of Medical Assisting jobs are in physicians' offices, while another 12 percent are positions in offices of other health care practitioners such as chiropractors, optometrists, and podiatrists.
Jobs are also available in hospitals, nursing homes, and other health care facilities.
Naturally, the duties of a Medical Assistant vary from office to office depending on such factors as staff size, office location, and medical specialty. In smaller office situations, you may be required to handle a wider range of administrative and clinical duties, whereas in a larger office, the traditional Medical Assistant may specialize in one area or function. This career variety is very attractive to many people when targeting potential job opportunities. With additional course work, Medical Assistants may enter more advanced health occupations. At MTC, the ultimate importance is placed on what you know, not the where and how .