Where do Medical Assistants work?

Medical Assistants: Where They Work & How to Get Started

Medical assistants play a vital role in today’s healthcare system, supporting physicians with both administrative and clinical responsibilities. These may include checking vital signs, recording medical histories, administering medications, and handling insurance claims.

The demand for medical assistants is growing rapidly. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for medical assistants is expected to grow by 15% from 2023 to 2033—much faster than the average for most occupations.

So, where do medical assistants actually work?

Medical assistants are employed in a wide range of healthcare settings—from private practices to hospitals and even insurance companies. In this guide, we’ll break down the most common work environments and what medical assistants typically do in each.

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Where Medical Assistants Work

Medical assistants can work in many different environments depending on their focus—clinical or administrative. Some even work remotely, handling tasks like billing, scheduling, and medical coding from home.

Here’s a closer look at some of the most common workplaces for medical assistants:

Doctor’s Offices & Medical Clinics

More than half of all medical assistants work in private practices or outpatient clinics. These settings often have repeat patients, which can lead to stronger patient-provider relationships.

In smaller offices, medical assistants typically handle a mix of administrative and clinical tasks.

Common specialties where medical assistants are employed include:

• Family Medicine

• Pediatrics

• Obstetrics/Gynecology

• Geriatrics

• Cardiology

• Endocrinology

• Ophthalmology

• Psychiatry/Psychology

If you enjoy building long-term relationships and working in a consistent environment, this may be a great fit.

Hospitals

Hospitals are the second-largest employer of medical assistants in the U.S. They operate 24/7, so shifts may include nights, weekends, or holidays.

Working in a hospital often means a fast-paced environment, where your responsibilities may vary daily between direct patient care and administrative support.

Hospitals typically offer competitive pay and benefits, and they’re often among the largest employers in their communities.

Outpatient Care Centers

Outpatient care centers offer services that don’t require overnight stays—like minor procedures, lab work, or psychiatric evaluations.

These facilities blend elements of hospitals and private practices. While they can be busy, the atmosphere is generally less intense than emergency departments.

Medical assistants here often handle both front- and back-office duties, making it a well-rounded experience.

Clinical Research & Medical Trials

Medical research centers and clinical trials offer another unique career path. In these roles, you may help with:

• Collecting and preparing lab samples

• Administering tests

• Recording and organizing patient data

You may also be involved in trials for new medications and treatments, contributing to innovations in healthcare.

Insurance Companies

Medical assistants are also employed by health insurance companies—primarily for administrative roles. Your knowledge of medical terminology and procedures will be key when:

• Reviewing patient records

• Coordinating with providers

• Processing claims

• Managing approvals for procedures and hospital stays

This is a great option for those who prefer a structured office environment and steady hours.

Other Work Environments

Additional places medical assistants may work include:

• Nursing homes and assisted living facilities

• Hospice and palliative care centers

• Military bases

• Correctional facilities

• Colleges and universities

• Diagnostic laboratories

• Urgent care centers

Discover the Highest-Paying Medical Assistant Specialties

What’s the Best Place to Work as a Medical Assistant?

The best place to work depends on your personality, interests, and strengths. Some factors to consider:

• Do you prefer clinical or administrative work?

• Would you rather work in a large hospital or a small office?

• Are you drawn to certain patient populations (children, elderly, women’s health)?

• What kind of schedule do you need?

• What job opportunities are available in your area?

  
  

How to Become a Medical Assistant

Ready to start your journey toward a healthcare career? Here’s how to become a medical assistant:

1. Earn a high school diploma or GEDMost programs require this before enrolling.

2. Enroll in a medical assistant training programAt Easy Draw Academy, you can complete your online training in just 4 months and prepare for your Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) exam.

3. Gain work experienceSome students opt to gain hands-on experience before taking the certification exam.

4. Get certified (optional but recommended)While certification isn’t required everywhere, it can improve your job prospects and potential salary.

5. Start working!With medical assistants in high demand, certified candidates are often hired quickly.

Learn More About Easy Draw Academy’s Online Medical Assistant Program

Wrapping Up

As a medical assistant, you’ll find a wide variety of work settings—from clinics and hospitals to research labs and insurance companies. You can even explore opportunities as a travel medical assistant, working short-term contracts across the country.

If you’re ready to start your career in healthcare, Easy Draw Academy’s 4-month online training program can help you get certified and job-ready with personalized support every step of the way.

Start your medical assistant journey with Easy Draw Academy today!