Formal medical assistant programs are designed to help students to serve as an important role in doctor’s offices, clinics, and hospitals. In addition to learning how to perform important tasks, such as taking vital signs and collecting patient histories, medical assistant programs also teach students how to handle a variety of different challenges that come up in medical settings, including preparing patients for procedures, sterilizing equipment, and taking care of laboratory specimens. However, on-the-job training is essential for medical assistants too. Here are a few key skills you’ll learn while working. 

3 Skills Medical Assistants Learn on the Job

1. Patient Compassion 

While you may learn about how to show patients compassion in a medical assistant program, there’s nothing like real-world experience talking with people and identifying their needs. As you work with different patients, learn their stories, and help them through their recovery or treatment, you will gain a new appreciation for what kindness and service mean to patients. 

2. The Ability to Work as a Team

One of the most important roles of medical assistants is to act as patient coordinators. Oftentimes, medical assistants are the first or second points of contact for a patient, which is why learning to relay information—such as a patient’s symptoms or requests—is so crucial. When you work as a medical assistant, you will learn how to work as a team, helping doctors, nurses, surgeons, and other professionals. You’ll improve your network and master vital communication skills. 

3. Problem-Solving 

Because each day as a medical assistant provides a different set of challenges, you will get better at solving problems on the fly. Whether a patient needs to talk with the doctor about adjusting their medications or you need to help a nervous child during their appointment, you will be able to practice your problem-solving skills every single day.

If you are thinking about starting a dynamic career as a medical assistant, look no further than Westchester School for Dental Assistants in Elmsford, NY. In addition to offering a top-notch medical assistant program, this trusted school also has courses on phlebotomy and medical administration. To learn more about admissions and financial aid, visit them online or give their office a call at (914) 682-9001.