Study At A Medical Assistant School in Rhode Island, Pursue A Perfect Career For You
If you’re interested in learning more about medical assistant programs in Rhode Island, there are a variety different program options to consider—including diplomas, certificates and degree programs.
Medical assistants perform tasks that are clinical and/or administrative like:
- Prepping patients for x-rays
- Changing bandages
- Answer phones
- Schedule patients’ appointments
Before we get into education information for medical assistants in Rhode Island, we thought you’d be interested to learn some general education information about the state.
Colleges in Rhode Island
According to the 2018 National Center for Education Statistics:
- There are 3 public colleges in Rhode Island
- 2 of those colleges are 4 year schools, and 1 is a 2 year school
- In 2018 there were 82,711 enrolled college students
- Total 2018 male fall enrollment is 35,437
- Total 2018 female fall enrollment is 47,274
Do I Need a Medical Assistant Certification in Rhode Island?
While certification may not be required, many employers prefer hiring job candidates who have their certificate or diploma. With options like attending school a community college, vocational school, or university in Rhode Island, why not look into a medical assisting program now? We may be able to help you! The National Commission for Certifying Agencies accredits five certifications for medical assistants.
Below are a few related fields that do require state licensure:
- Dental Hygienist: Requires certification via the RI Department of Health. Dental hygienists work under the supervision of a dentist and provide patient care such as removing stains from patients’ teeth, developing x-ray film, and instructing patients about proper oral hygiene. Visit http://www.health.ri.gov/licenses/healthcare/index.php for more information.
- Nurse Aide: Requires certification from the RI Department of Health. Nurse aides provide health care, personal care, and assistance to patients while being supervised by nursing and medical staff. More information can be found at http://www.health.ri.gov/licenses/healthcare/index.php.
How Much Do Medical Assistants in Rhode Island Make?
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, in 2019 there were 2,820 medical assistants in Rhode Island. These 2k plus pros represent .58% of the states job. The median wage for medical assistants in Rhode Island is $36,650. With an hourly median pay of $17.62.
Where do medical assistants work?
Medical assistants usually work in physician’s offices, hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare facilities. They perform administrative and clinical tasks that involve working with patients, doctors, and other healthcare professionals.
A few hospitals in Rhode Island:
- Miriam Hospital
- Butler Hospital
- Eleanor Slater Hospital
- Emma Pendleton Bradley Hospital
- Hasbro Children’s Hospital
What are the top metro areas in Rhode Island to work in?
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the metro area that pays the most is Providence-Fall River-Warwick. The 2019 median salary for medical assistants in these other metro areas is as follows:
| Metro Area | Jobs | Median Hourly Wage | Median Annual Wage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Providence-Fall River-Warwick, RI-MA | 3,140 | $17.67 | $36,760 |
What Medical Assisting Professional Organizations are there in Rhode Island?
As a medical assistant graduate from a program in Rhode Island, you may want to think about joining a professional organization. The American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA) has information about recertification, a career center, news, volunteering, and more on their site. The American Medical Technologists (AMT) also offers information regarding certification, publications, member benefits, and a career connection on their website.
Deciding to pursue an education in medial assisting may be an exciting choice for you. To help you, take a look at our partner schools below in Rhode Island that have medical assisting programs. Remember, you are not alone in this process and while certification may not be required, many employers prefer hiring certified job candidates.