A career as a medical assistant gives individuals an opportunity to serve patients in a unique capacity. As part of a team of medical professionals, a medical assistant has a variety of medical and administrative duties directly related to patient care. Most medical assistants work in hospitals, nursing homes or doctor's office. This versatile career choice provides opportunities to work in different specialties and departments such as radiology or cardiology. Educational Requirements Generally, there are two types of educational options for medical assistants. Some programs offer a one year certificate program; others have shorter programs that last six weeks. More extensive training is offered in an associate's degree program. Specific educational requirements to work in a healthcare facility as a medical assistant might vary among states. Coursework in medical assistant programs covers a broad spectrum of material related to medical and administrative procedures. Medical courses may include physiology, first aid, anatomy, medical terminology, and clinical and diagnostic procedures. Administrative course typically cover medical billing, patient relations, ethics and medical law. Some accredited programs also have an internship module where students gain practical experience in a healthcare facility. Certification programs require passing a state examination. A certified medical assistant (CMA) is distinguished from an entry level medical assistant. Some offer certified specialties such as ophthalmology and podiatry. Certification credentials can lead to higher pay and advancement opportunities. Work Environment The work environment for medical assistants entails a variety of duties and responsibilities. These may include patient check-in, filing charts and updating medical records. Some medical assistants check vital signs, give shots and assist with medical billing. In some facilities, medical assistants may collect specimens and perform laboratory tests. Others may have an opportunity to give patient instructions for medication and nutrition. The typical work week is a Monday through Friday 40 hour schedule. This may vary when a medical facility has evening and weekend hours. Salary Salary ranges may vary depending on the healthcare facility where the medical assistant works. Geographical location and whether or not the medical assistant receives certification also determine pay rate. Most are paid an hourly rate with annual salaries averaging between $23,000 and $33,000, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.