Individuals employed as registered medical assistants are responsible for the clinical and administrative tasks to keep the offices of various health care professionals running as smooth as possible. They are often employed by physicians, chiropractors, optometrists and podiatrist. The duties of registered medical assistants vary depending on whether they are working as administrative, clinical or ophthalmic medical assistants.Registered administrative medical assistants are usually tasked with the responsibility of completing insurance claim forms, updating the medical records of patients and arranging patients admission to the hospital. They may also be tasked with general secretarial duties which may include answering phones, organizing records and answering the questions of patients.Registered clinical medical assistants are responsible for completing patient's medical histories, explaining treatment options to patients and getting patients ready for their examinations. They may also collect laboratory specimens and may give patients detailed instructions about medications they have been prescribed.Registered ophthalmic medical assistants have highly specialized duties which may include measuring patient's vision parameters, applying eye dressings and administer various eye medications.Registered Medical Assistants Educational RequirementsAlthough there are instances where registered medical assistants are trained right on the job, the majority of individuals who enter this field complete a one or two year vocational program. Medical assisting programs are generally offered by community colleges, junior colleges and vocational schools. Courses required to complete a medical assisting program includes diagnostic and clinical procedures, medical ethics and the principles of pharmaceuticals.Certification as a registered medical assistant varies according to state law but usually requires the applicant to complete a certification program offered by either the American Association of Medical Assistants or the Association of Medical Technologists. Individuals may also have to complete special training offered by their employer.Registered Medical Assistants Earning PotentialThe earnings of a registered medical assistant varies greatly according to their experience level and the type of institution they are employed. Generally speaking, registered medical assistants have a median annual salary of approximately $28,000 per year. The bottom ten percent of registered medical assistants made less than $20,000 per year, while the top ten percent earned more than $40,000 per year.Expected Job Growth For Registered Medical AssistantsJob Growth for registered medical assistants is expected to grow at a rate of about thirty-five percent over the next ten years. This growth is due to advances in medical technology and the increased need for medical professionals to treat an ever-aging population.