Medical Assistants are in high demand across the country? In fact, the Bureau of Labor Statistics expects demand to continue to increase much faster than average through the year 2028! And in some states, like Connecticut and Massachusetts, Medical Assistants also earn more than in other states.

But what’s going on? Why is there such a demand for medical assistants?

Why Is There an Increase in Medical Assistant Demand?

Aging Population

There are more than 74 million Baby Boomers alive today. Those are the people born between 1946 and 1964. There are a lot of them and they’re getting older. And as they age, they’re more likely to face health challenges and serious illnesses. This huge group of people all needing health services at the same time is already putting a burden on the healthcare system. Doctors and nurses and even health administrators need help. That’s where Medical Assistants come in.

Affordable Health Care Act

Back in 2010, the Affordable Health Care Act changed the way people in the U.S. were insured and covered for health issues. More people got access to healthcare and they took advantage of it. There were also a lot more documentation of services and security measures required. With more patients and more paperwork, people working in healthcare needed more help—and they still do. That’s where Medical Assistants come in.

Chronic Illnesses

Six in 10 people live with chronic illness. Conditions like diabetes, heart and lung diseases, cancer and others, require more medical attention. Patients need help managing their diseases. To maintain a somewhat normal life people who have chronic illnesses need frequent check-ins with their care providers. And with the Medical Assistants who are often the very first people they see at their appointments.

Healthy Trends

Even if chronic illnesses are at an all-time high, there are plenty of people who try to adopt healthier lifestyles. And when they do, Medical Assistants can be on there to support and encourage them. Medical Assistants know all about the importance of following doctors’ orders, and they can also provide information on:

• Medications
• Nutrition
• Diet
• Exercise

Benefits of Being a Medical Assistant

The high demand of the profession is only one reason to become a Medical Assistant. It’s also good to know that it:

Is Rewarding

If you’ve ever dreamed of a career helping others, this one could be for you. You would be part of a healthcare team, performing clinical duties and helping all its members perform their duties well. And you’d also be on the frontlines of direct care, helping patients and their families in times of aging, illness, and injury.

Includes Benefits

It no surprise that a career in healthcare would provide health benefits to its employees. As a full-time Medical Assistant in most healthcare facilities, you would most likely have benefits that include health insurance and paid time off for sickness and vacation.

Has a Steady Work Environment

The demand for the profession also means that as long as you do your job well, you’ll have a job. You’ll also have a pleasant place to work. More than half of certified Medical Assistants work in physicians’ offices, while another 15 percent work in hospitals.

Provides Growth Opportunity

The longer you stay in the career, the better your earning potential can be. With additional training and experience, you may also be able to transfer your skills to other healthcare professions.

Is Quick to Train for

You can train for your medical assisting career in as few as nine months.

Are you considering a career in the healthcare field? Do you want to take advantage of job growth? If you want a job where you can make a difference in the lives of others and your own, check out the Medical Assisting program at Porter and Chester Institute today.