About Medical Assistant Careers in Florida

Medical assistants work with doctors handling basic clinical duties such as checking height, weight, temperature, and blood pressure. They usually record medical histories and may perform simple laboratory tests. In some offices, the medical assistant may assist the physician treat patients. It is not uncommon for a medical assistant to take electrocardiograms, apply bandages, take x-rays, and give injections.

While the clinical duties of medical assistants vary according to state statutes, medical assistants in Florida typically work in private offices, and clinics. In some instances, medical assistants are also medical office managers or office administrators.

Medical Assistant Salaries in Florida

Annual salaries for medical assistants in Florida can vary from around $24,000 to over $32,000. While experience is one contributing factor for the salary variance, some areas of the state offer higher salaries to medical assistants. Areas offering the highest median salaries for Medical Assistants in Florida can be found in the cities of Cape Coral, West Palm Beach, and Naples. However, several other areas also offer very competitive salaries.

Local Universities Offering Medical Assistant Courses

Prospective medical assistants can receive either a 1-year certificate or diploma or a 2-year Associates degree in Medical Assisting. A handful of Florida colleges offer a Bachelor’s degree, and at least one even offers a Masters degree. Degrees, diplomas, and certificates can be obtained either by completing coursework in a standard on-campus setting or students may opt for online classes. Online classes provide many students the flexibility and convenience they need to obtain their education.

Including online universities, there are over 50 schools available for medical assistants in Florida. This program is offered throughout the state of Florida. A sampling of just a few of these schools includes: Everest University, Florida State College, Miami Dade College, and Pensacola Junior College. Online schools offering degrees or diplomas in medical assisting include Kaplan University, Ashworth College, and Penn Foster College.

Financial Aid

For both on-campus and online classes, students may apply for federal financial aid when attending an accredited college or university. Additionally, federal grants may be available if the student meets certain financial criteria. The college financial aid office may be able to provide information on potential employers who are willing to pay all or a portion of a student’s tuition in exchange for a promise to work.