The Best Medical Assistant Programs in Arizona

According to Arizona census data, a substantial 24% of the state’s population is aged over 60.
The appealing combination of Arizona’s splendid weather, picturesque landscapes, and affordable living expenses makes it an enticing destination for seniors contemplating relocation during their retirement years.
Furthermore, the demand for medical assistants in the state is on the rise, presenting a burgeoning field for individuals aspiring to contribute to healthcare.
In a broader context, the demographic landscape of the United States reveals that in 2019, 16% of the entire population was 65 years or older.

This age group is particularly susceptible to chronic diseases and cognitive decline, underscoring the critical role that medical assistants play in the healthcare sector. As the aging population grows, so does the necessity for healthcare professionals capable of providing diverse care in various settings. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts an 18% growth in employment for medical assistants by 2030, surpassing the average growth rate across all occupations. This comprehensive exploration delves into the multifaceted responsibilities of medical assistants, considerations for selecting a program, and guidelines for applying to medical assistant schools in Arizona.

Utilizing a meticulous data-driven methodology, we systematically rank the best medical assistant programs in Arizona, streamlining the process for individuals seeking programs aligned with their preferences. Our evaluation criteria encompass crucial aspects such as academic quality, affordability, reputation, and program offerings.

For those eager to delve into the specifics, continue reading to gain insights into the premier medical assistant programs in Arizona. Alternatively, you can expedite your search by accessing our compiled list of the top medical assistant programs in the state.

Roles and Specializations of Medical Assistants

In Arizona, medical assistants function under the supervision of physicians and physician assistants, engaging in a spectrum of clinical and administrative tasks. While some employers may designate specific roles, such as clinical or administrative responsibilities, the duties of medical assistants often span outpatient settings like clinics, urgent care facilities, and physician offices.

Their Roles:

1. Assisting the provider during an examination
2. Instructing patients on medications, diet, and procedures
3. Performing EKGs
4. Collecting laboratory specimens
5. Administering medications
6. Removing sutures
7. Preparing patients for an examination
8. Taking vital signs and medical histories
9. Phlebotomy
10. Maintaining medical equipment
11. Wound care

Administrative skills for medical assistants:

1. Keeping track of the medical supplies inventory
2. Reordering supplies as necessary
3. Setting up appointments for patients
4. Coordinating hospital admissions
5. Ensuring patient records are up to date
6. Documenting the medical history of patients
7. Handling the processing of insurance forms
8. Addressing and resolving billing issues
9. Advocating on behalf of the patient with the insurance company

Medical assistants have the opportunity to specialize in diverse fields such as ophthalmology, podiatry, obstetrics, orthopedics, and autopsy. This specialization not only enhances their earning potential but also allows them to pursue a niche aligned with their interests.

Salary Considerations and Certifications

According to Payscale data from May 2022, the average annual base salary for a medical assistant in the United States stands at $35,770. Several factors, including location, certification, and specialization, exert influence on salary variations.

For individuals aspiring to embark on a career as a medical assistant, acquiring licensure and certifications is paramount. Featured online medical assisting programs offer a convenient pathway to learn about start dates, credit transfer policies, availability of financial aid, and other essential details. Engaging with universities directly provides a personalized approach to gathering pertinent information.

Factors to Consider in Selecting a Medical Assistant Program

Choosing the right medical assistant program is a crucial step towards ensuring future employment success. Considerations span a spectrum of factors, including admission requirements, program curriculum, clinical experience opportunities, accreditation status, program length, school graduation rate, and alumni outcomes. A comprehensive evaluation based on these criteria ensures alignment with individual needs and augments employment prospects.

Importance of Accreditation

Accreditation emerges as a crucial aspect for medical assistant programs in Arizona, with bodies such as the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES) and the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) playing pivotal roles. Attending an accredited program not only ensures a standardized quality of education but also enhances employability, a prerequisite for certification, and may impact eligibility for federal aid.

Financial Considerations and Aid Options

Medical assistant programs typically span 9-12 months, with associate programs extending to two years. Tuition costs vary between $2,500 and $26,000, and the flexibility of some programs allows students to work during their studies to offset expenses. The financial aid office of the school serves as a valuable resource, assisting students in exploring options such as grants, scholarships, student loans, and military benefits. Scholarships may be available both through the school and external organizations, providing additional avenues to alleviate financial burdens.

Federal grants and student loans are potential sources of financial support for students attending accredited programs. Tailored resources may also be accessible for students belonging to specific populations or organizations, contributing to a comprehensive understanding of financial aid options.

Explore the Best Medical Assistant Programs in Arizona

What to Consider When Choosing a Medical Assistant Program

Evaluating your options for a medical assistant program is crucial to ensure that your chosen school aligns with your requirements and enhances your employment prospects. Take into account the following aspects:

Admission Requirements

Before submitting your application, ensure that you meet all the program’s requirements. These requirements serve as indicators of the competition for admission.

Program Curriculum

Accredited programs follow a specific curriculum but might include extra coursework to tailor the degree. Special offerings differ among programs. However, students typically need to achieve a grade of “C” or higher in each class and may not repeat a class more than once.

Clinical Experience

The timing and placements of clinical experiences may impact your decision if they don’t align with your schedule or abilities. Verify whether the school assists with clinical placement, as arranging this independently can be challenging.

Accreditation

For certification purposes, the program you graduate from must be accredited.

Program Length

While accredited programs maintain a similar curriculum, they may have flexibility in program acceleration or additional courses. Longer programs might provide more leadership training, beneficial for a continued healthcare career. The duration of the program can also affect your finances, with longer programs typically being more expensive, and you may be unable to work while studying.

School Graduation Rate

The graduation rate indicates how likely you are to complete the program. Schools with low rates may lack a supportive environment for students.

Alumni Outcomes

Schools often keep initial employment records for graduates, offering insight into the success of students from the program in finding employment.

Applying to a Medical Assistant Program in Arizona

Arizona has competency standards for medical assistants currently under review. While most states lack educational requirements for medical assistants, additional certification is preferred by employers.

1. Admission Materials

Most medical assistant schools in Arizona require a high school diploma or equivalent. Some programs allow post-secondary credentials while earning a high school diploma through specific programs.

2. GPA Requirement

Schools may specify a GPA requirement for high school transcripts or prerequisite classes, including statistics, math, and English. A placement test might also be required.

Importance of Medical Assistant Program Accreditation

Proper accreditation is crucial for medical assistant schools in Arizona. Accrediting bodies such as the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES) and the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) play a vital role.

Reasons to choose an accredited program include:

• Ensuring a quality standard of education.
• Increased preference from employers for graduates with an accredited degree.
• Accreditation being a prerequisite for certification.
• Ineligibility for federal aid in non-accredited programs.
• Meeting national requirements for professional education.
• Access to higher job prospects for graduates from accredited programs.
• Limitations on credit transfer from non-accredited programs.

Learn more about the accreditation process and its role in supporting your career development.

Paying for Medical Assistant Programs in Arizona

Medical assistant programs typically take 9-12 months to complete, while associate programs may span two years. Depending on the program, students may have the flexibility to work during school to offset costs, with tuition ranging from $2,500 to $26,000.

The school’s financial aid office assists students in seeking aid through grants, scholarships, student loans, and military benefits. Scholarships may also be available through local and national organizations.

Federal grants and student loans are options for attending accredited programs. Additional resources cater to specific populations or organizations. Find more information and resources about financial aid here.

Explore the Best Medical Assistant Programs and Schools in Arizona

Data for these schools is derived from publicly available provisional datasets from the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). All data is current as of the article’s publication date, with program-specific details subject to variation.

Top-Ranked Medical Assistant Programs in Arizona

1. Pima Medical Institute
Location: Phoenix, AZ
Website: https://www.pmi.edu
The Medical Assistant program at Pima Medical Institute in Phoenix prepares students for a career in the healthcare industry by offering hands-on training and comprehensive coursework in medical assisting. This program covers clinical, administrative, and laboratory skills necessary to work in medical offices, hospitals, and other healthcare settings. The curriculum includes instruction on taking vital signs, drawing blood, assisting with medical procedures, and managing patient records.

Pima Medical Institute’s program is accredited by the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES) and ensures that students meet industry standards. Students also gain practical experience through externships with local healthcare providers. The program is designed to be completed in approximately 9-15 months, depending on whether students choose to study full-time or part-time.

Graduates are eligible to sit for the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) exam through the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA). This certification enhances job prospects and career advancement opportunities. With a focus on preparing students for real-world healthcare environments, Pima’s Medical Assistant program provides the skills needed for long-term success in the field.

Campus: Phoenix, AZ
Type: Private, For-Profit
Accreditation: ABHES
Tuition: Approx. $15,000
Minimum Time Commitment: 9-15 months
Online Available: No
Degree Requirements: Certification in Medical Assisting
Programs: Medical Assistant

2. Carrington College
Location: Phoenix, AZ
Website: https://www.carrington.edu
Carrington College offers a comprehensive Medical Assistant program at its Phoenix campus designed to equip students with the skills needed to perform administrative and clinical duties in a healthcare setting. The curriculum includes training in patient care, medical office procedures, and laboratory techniques, all within a hands-on learning environment. Students also learn how to take vital signs, administer injections, and handle patient records.

The program is accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC) and prepares students for certification exams, including the Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) exam. The program offers flexible scheduling options, including full-time and part-time enrollment, to accommodate the diverse needs of students.

Carrington College’s Medical Assistant program provides the opportunity for externships, where students gain practical experience working with healthcare professionals in real-world settings. Graduates leave the program with the confidence and skill set required for a successful career in medical assisting.

Campus: Phoenix, AZ
Type: Private, For-Profit
Accreditation: ACCSC
Tuition: Approx. $14,000
Minimum Time Commitment: 9-15 months
Online Available: No
Degree Requirements: Certification in Medical Assisting
Programs: Medical Assistant

3. University of Phoenix
Location: Phoenix, AZ
Website: https://www.phoenix.edu
The University of Phoenix offers an online Medical Assistant Certificate program, making it ideal for students who need flexibility in their studies. This program covers clinical skills such as administering medications, performing laboratory tests, and assisting with patient exams, as well as administrative skills like managing patient files, scheduling appointments, and handling billing and coding.

The program is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) and prepares students for certifications, including the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) exam. As an online program, students can work at their own pace while receiving high-quality education through a mix of video lessons, virtual labs, and live sessions with instructors.

University of Phoenix’s Medical Assistant program is designed to help students transition seamlessly into the workforce, with career services available to assist with job placement after graduation. Graduates of the program leave with the expertise and confidence needed to work in a variety of healthcare settings.

Campus: Phoenix, AZ
Type: Private, For-Profit
Accreditation: HLC
Tuition: Approx. $10,000
Minimum Time Commitment: 9-12 months
Online Available: Yes
Degree Requirements: Certificate in Medical Assisting
Programs: Medical Assistant

4. GateWay Community College
Location: Phoenix, AZ
Website: https://www.gatewaycc.edu
GateWay Community College offers an accredited Medical Assistant program that provides students with the skills and knowledge to become effective medical assistants in clinical and administrative roles. The program covers a wide range of topics, including medical terminology, anatomy and physiology, clinical procedures, medical office management, and patient care.

The program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) and prepares students for certification exams such as the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) exam. GateWay offers both full-time and part-time enrollment options, allowing students to balance their studies with work or other responsibilities.

With a strong focus on hands-on learning, GateWay provides students with the opportunity to participate in externships with healthcare facilities, giving them real-world experience before graduation. The program can be completed in about 9 months for full-time students, making it a great choice for those looking to start their careers quickly.

Campus: Phoenix, AZ
Type: Public, Community College
Accreditation: CAAHEP
Tuition: Approx. $5,000
Minimum Time Commitment: 9 months
Online Available: No
Degree Requirements: Certificate in Medical Assisting
Programs: Medical Assistant

5. Mesa Community College
Location: Mesa, AZ
Website: https://www.mesacc.edu
Mesa Community College’s Medical Assistant program is designed to provide students with both the clinical and administrative skills needed for success in the healthcare industry. Students will learn how to take medical histories, assist with medical exams, handle patient records, and perform laboratory tests, along with essential office procedures like billing and scheduling.

The program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) and prepares students for certification through the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA). The program includes hands-on experience with clinical skills and externships at partnering healthcare facilities.

Mesa Community College offers a flexible schedule, with options for both full-time and part-time students. The program can typically be completed in one year, giving students the opportunity to enter the workforce quickly.

Campus: Mesa, AZ
Type: Public, Community College
Accreditation: CAAHEP
Tuition: Approx. $4,500
Minimum Time Commitment: 12 months
Online Available: No
Degree Requirements: Certificate in Medical Assisting
Programs: Medical Assistant

6. Anthem College
Location: Phoenix, AZ
Website: https://www.anthem.edu
Anthem College offers a comprehensive Medical Assistant diploma program that prepares students to take on both clinical and administrative roles within healthcare facilities. The program includes training in patient care, medical office management, medical billing and coding, and laboratory procedures. Students are also prepared for certification exams such as the Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) exam.

Anthem College’s program is accredited by the Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools (ACICS), and it offers students the chance to gain hands-on experience through externships with local healthcare providers. The program can be completed in approximately 9-12 months.

Graduates of Anthem College’s Medical Assistant program are equipped to handle the many responsibilities required in healthcare settings, including patient interactions, medical office management, and medical procedures. The college also offers career services to help students with job placement upon graduation.

Campus: Phoenix, AZ
Type: Private, For-Profit
Accreditation: ACICS
Tuition: Approx. $14,000
Minimum Time Commitment: 9-12 months
Online Available: No
Degree Requirements: Diploma in Medical Assisting
Programs: Medical Assistant

7. The College of Health Care Professions
Location: Phoenix, AZ
Website: https://www.chcp.edu
The College of Health Care Professions (CHCP) offers a Medical Assistant program that prepares students for both clinical and administrative roles in the medical field. The program includes training in patient care, medical office procedures, laboratory skills, and communication techniques.

CHCP is accredited by the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES) and offers a rigorous, hands-on approach to learning. The program includes clinical externships with local healthcare providers, allowing students to gain real-world experience before entering the workforce.

The Medical Assistant program at CHCP can be completed in approximately 9 months for full-time students. Graduates are prepared to take certification exams such as the CMA or CCMA, enhancing their job prospects in the competitive healthcare industry.

Campus: Phoenix, AZ
Type: Private, For-Profit
Accreditation: ABHES
Tuition: Approx. $13,000
Minimum Time Commitment: 9 months
Online Available: No
Degree Requirements: Certification in Medical Assisting
Programs: Medical Assistant

8. Arizona College of Nursing
Location: Phoenix, AZ
Website: https://www.arizonacollege.edu
The Arizona College of Nursing offers a Medical Assistant program that blends classroom instruction with clinical training. Students learn how to perform a variety of clinical and administrative duties, including taking vital signs, assisting with medical exams, and handling patient records and scheduling.

The program is accredited by the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES) and includes an externship component, providing students with valuable hands-on experience in a healthcare setting. The program can be completed in about 9-12 months, offering flexibility for students who need to balance education with other responsibilities.

Graduates of the program are eligible to take certification exams, such as the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) exam, which enhances employment opportunities in the medical field.

Campus: Phoenix, AZ
Type: Private, For-Profit
Accreditation: ABHES
Tuition: Approx. $14,500
Minimum Time Commitment: 9-12 months
Online Available: No
Degree Requirements: Certificate in Medical Assisting
Programs: Medical Assistant

9. Brookline College
Location: Phoenix, AZ
Website: https://www.brooklinecollege.edu
Brookline College offers a Medical Assistant program that provides students with the skills and knowledge needed for a successful career in healthcare. The program covers a wide array of topics, including patient care, clinical procedures, medical office management, and laboratory testing.

Brookline College’s program is accredited by the Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools (ACICS), and students have the opportunity to gain hands-on experience through externships in real-world healthcare settings. The program typically takes 9 months to complete for full-time students.

Graduates are eligible to sit for certification exams like the CMA, enhancing their employability in the competitive healthcare job market.

Campus: Phoenix, AZ
Type: Private, For-Profit
Accreditation: ACICS
Tuition: Approx. $16,000
Minimum Time Commitment: 9 months
Online Available: No
Degree Requirements: Diploma in Medical Assisting
Programs: Medical Assistant

10. Brookline College – Tucson
Location: Tucson, AZ
Website: https://www.brooklinecollege.edu
Brookline College’s Tucson campus also offers a well-rounded Medical Assistant program that prepares students for clinical and administrative positions in healthcare. The program includes training in patient care, clinical skills, medical office procedures, and laboratory techniques.

The program is accredited by the Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools (ACICS) and provides opportunities for externships at healthcare facilities. Students can complete the program in approximately 9 months, gaining hands-on experience before graduation.

Graduates are eligible to sit for certification exams, including the CMA or CCMA, to boost their qualifications and career opportunities.

Campus: Tucson, AZ
Type: Private, For-Profit
Accreditation: ACICS
Tuition: Approx. $16,000
Minimum Time Commitment: 9 months
Online Available: No
Degree Requirements: Diploma in Medical Assisting
Programs: Medical Assistant

Frequently Asked Questions About Medical Assistant Programs

How long does it take to become a medical assistant in Arizona?

The duration to complete a medical assistant program in Arizona varies, typically ranging from one semester to two years. Accredited programs adhere to national standards, ensuring that students receive comprehensive education and enabling them to successfully undertake and pass certification examinations.

Do medical assistants have to be certified in Arizona?

As of now, Arizona does not mandate certification for medical assistants practicing in the state. However, it’s important to note that competency standards are currently under review. Future regulations might necessitate certification following the publication of new standards.

How much does it cost to become a medical assistant in Arizona?

The cost of a medical assistant program in Arizona varies, typically falling within the range of $2,500 to $26,000. The total expense is influenced by factors such as the institution offering the program and the duration of the program. Programs that confer an associate degree generally incur higher costs compared to those providing a medical assistant diploma.

How much do certified medical assistants make in Arizona?

According to Salary.com, the median annual income for certified medical assistants in Arizona is reported to be $37,390. This figure is based on data collected from human resource departments and may fluctuate within the range of $31,810 to $43,090. It’s worth noting that additional certifications and specializations can potentially lead to negotiations for a salary higher than the recorded median.