Career Paths for Medical Assistants

Transform your Medical Assistant diploma into a launchpad for other rewarding healthcare careers.

Medical Assisting has become an increasingly attractive career path for those looking to enter the healthcare industry, according to Research.com. It offers not only a fast and efficient route into the field but also serves as a strong foundation for individuals who may later pursue more advanced roles in healthcare.

Medical Assistants are essential members of the care team, supporting physicians, enhancing patient experiences, and helping healthcare facilities run smoothly. Their versatility allows them to work in a variety of settings, including doctors’ offices, clinics, and hospitals, where they serve as a critical link between patients and providers.

For those eager to launch their healthcare careers without spending years in school, programs like the Medical Assisting Program at Eagle Gate College can be completed in as little as 9 months—offering a streamlined and practical path into the profession.

What Can a Medical Assistant Do?

With a medical assisting diploma, professionals step into one of the most versatile roles in healthcare. Medical Assistants are trained to handle a wide range of clinical and administrative tasks that keep healthcare facilities running smoothly and patients well cared for.

On the clinical side, Medical Assistants support physicians by preparing patients for exams, monitoring vital signs, assisting with procedures, performing basic laboratory tests, administering injections, and even handling wound care. In some settings, they may assist with suturing or help interpret routine medical results under supervision.

Administratively, Medical Assistants are responsible for scheduling appointments, managing patient records, processing insurance forms, and ensuring that personal health information remains confidential. Their duties often vary depending on the size and specialty of the practice, as well as the regulations in their specific state.

But the role of a Medical Assistant doesn’t stop there. With experience and additional training, many Medical Assistants go on to explore specialized roles or advance into other areas of healthcare—such as nursing, medical billing and coding, health administration, or even physician assisting.

What Other Jobs Can Medical Assistants Do?

Earning your Medical Assisting diploma and passing the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) exam opens the door to a wide range of career possibilities. While many of these roles require additional training, certification, or licensure, your Medical Assistant background gives you a solid foundation to build on.

Think of your Medical Assistant experience as a launchpad—one that equips you with hands-on clinical skills, administrative know-how, and real-world healthcare exposure. Whether you’re looking to specialize, advance, or switch focus entirely, there are plenty of exciting paths to explore. Here are the top roles a person can typically pursue immediately after earning a Medical Assistant  diploma—with little to no additional training or certification required. Though individual employers may ask for short certifications, many will hire Medical Assistants directly based on their diploma training.

Here are 10 popular career transitions for Medical Assistants:

1. Medical Office Assistant—Manages front-desk tasks using Medical Assistant admin skills.
2. EKG Technician—Eligible if EKG was part of Medical Assistant training.
3. Phlebotomy Technician— Natural fit for Medical Assistants with blood draw training.
4. Health Unit Clerk— Handles hospital clerical work.
5. Medical Claims Examiner—Admin-savvy Medical Assistants may qualify.
6. Surgical Technologist— Assists in surgery; needs extra training.
7. Public Health Inspector— Requires a bachelor’s level education.
8. Health Information Technician— Needs HIM or coding cert for most roles.
9. Nursing Assistant— Often requires CNA training and license.
10. Home Health Aide— Some roles open to Medical Assistants with less clinical work.

1. Medical Office Assistant (MOA)

What Does a Medical Office Assistant Do?

Medical Office Assistants are the essential coordinators who keep healthcare operations running efficiently and smoothly. Beyond just scheduling appointments and handling billing, Medical Office Assistants manage patient records, communicate with insurance companies, and facilitate the flow of information between patients and healthcare providers. Their multitasking skills and attention to detail create a seamless experience for patients and staff alike, making them indispensable in any healthcare setting.

Where Do Medical Office Assistants Work?

You’ll find Medical Office Assistants in a diverse range of healthcare environments, including bustling private practices, large hospital systems, rehabilitation centers, nursing homes, outpatient clinics, and hospices. This diversity allows Medical Office Assistants to explore varied workplace cultures and patient populations, enhancing their professional versatility and career satisfaction.

What Education and Certification Is Required for Medical Office Assistants?

For Medical Assistants, transitioning into a Medical Office Assistant role is often straightforward. The skills and knowledge gained during Medical Assistant training provide a solid foundation in medical terminology, billing, and administrative procedures. Typically, no additional formal education is required, making it a quick and accessible way to advance within healthcare administration.

What Are the Benefits of being a Medical Office Assistant?

Choosing to work as a Medical Office Assistant offers rewarding opportunities to impact patient care from behind the scenes. Medical Office Assistants often build strong connections with patients and healthcare teams, contributing to a supportive environment that enhances overall care quality. With consistent demand in healthcare administration, this career provides stability and room for professional growth.

How Much Do Medical Office Assistants Make?

According to BLS data, the mean annual wage for medical secretaries and administrative assistants, which includes Medical Office Assistants, was approximately $45,580 as of May 2024, reflecting a competitive salary* for those with administrative expertise in healthcare. Salaries may vary depending on geographic location, level of experience and additional certifications.

What is the Job Outlook for Medical Office Assistants?

According to the BLS, employment for Medical Office Assistants is projected 15 percent from 2023 to 2033, much faster than the average for all occupations. This steady demand reflects the ongoing need for skilled administrative support in an increasingly complex healthcare system.

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Click here to learn  how to become a Medical Assistant to learn more.

 

2. EKG Technician

What Does an EKG Technician Do?

EKG Technicians specialize in cardiac care, performing diagnostic tests that are critical to detecting and managing heart disease—the leading cause of death worldwide, according to the World Health Organization. By skillfully attaching electrodes and operating EKG machines, they capture the electrical rhythms of the heart, providing vital data for physicians to diagnose arrhythmias, heart attacks, and other cardiovascular conditions. This hands-on role combines technical skill with compassionate patient interaction, often helping to alleviate patient anxiety during testing.

Where Do EKG Technicians Work?

EKG Technicians find employment in a variety of healthcare settings, from fast-paced hospital cardiac units and emergency rooms to outpatient clinics and specialized cardiology practices. Their expertise is also crucial in diagnostic laboratories and rehabilitation centers, making this career path both dynamic and diverse.

What Education and Certification Are Required for EKG Technicians?

While a high school diploma is the minimum requirement, many employers prefer candidates who have completed formal training in EKG technology, which is sometimes integrated into Medical Assistant programs. Obtaining certification such as the Certified EKG Technician (CET) through the National Healthcareer Association can enhance job prospects and demonstrate professional competence.

What Are the Benefits of being an EKG Technician?

A career as an EKG Technician offers the rewarding opportunity to work closely with patients and play a pivotal role in early detection of cardiac issues. The specialized nature of the work, combined with the growing need for cardiac care due to an aging population, ensures this role remains in demand and offers professional fulfillment.

How Much Do EKG Technicians Make?

According to the BLS, cardiovascular technologists and technicians, which include EKG Technicians, earned a mean annual wage of $72,890 as of May 2024, reflecting strong compensation for this skilled healthcare specialty. Salaries may vary depending on geographic location, level of experience and additional certifications.

What is the Job Outlook for EKG Technicians?

According to the BLS, as of April 2025, employment in this field is expected to grow by 4% from 2023 to 2033, much faster than the average for all occupations, driven by the rising prevalence of cardiovascular disease and increased demand for diagnostic testing.

Learn More

Click here to learn how to become an EKG Technician.

 

3. Phlebotomy Technician

What Does a Phlebotomy Technician Do?

Phlebotomy Technicians are vital members of healthcare teams responsible for collecting blood samples for testing, transfusions, donations, or research. Their work requires precision, steady hands, and a gentle touch to minimize discomfort for patients. Beyond technical skills, phlebotomists build trust and calm patient nerves, often working with individuals across all ages and medical conditions.

Where Do Phlebotomy Technicians Work?

Phlebotomy Technicians are employed in hospitals, diagnostic laboratories, outpatient clinics, blood donation centers, and even mobile units. Their versatile skills allow them to work in various environments, including emergency and inpatient settings.

What Education and Certifications Are Required to be a Phlebotomy Technician?

Many medical assisting programs include phlebotomy training, which prepares graduates to take on this role immediately. While certification such as the Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT) is not always mandatory, it is highly recommended to improve job opportunities and demonstrate proficiency.

What Are the Benefits of being a Phlebotomy Technician?

Phlebotomy offers a hands-on healthcare role with meaningful patient interaction. It provides a career path for those interested in laboratory sciences and serves as a foundation for further specialization in clinical laboratory work.

How Much Do Phlebotomy Technicians Make?

The BLS reports that phlebotomists earned a mean annual wage of approximately $44,390 in May 2024, making it a solid entry-level position in healthcare. Salaries may vary depending on geographic location, level of experience and additional certifications.

What is the Job Outlook for Phlebotomy Technicians?

According to the BLS, as of April 2025, phlebotomist employment is projected to grow 8 percent from 2023 to 2033, faster than the average for all occupations. This reflects increased demand for diagnostic testing and preventive health screenings.

Learn More

Click here to learn how to become a Phlebotomy Technician.

 

4. Health Unit Clerk

What Does a Health Unit Clerk Do?

Health Unit Clerks are the organizational hubs within hospital units and long-term care facilities. They maintain patient records, coordinate admissions and discharges, communicate vital information between healthcare providers, and manage clerical duties essential for smooth clinical operations. Their ability to handle multiple tasks efficiently under pressure keeps patient care on track.

Where Do Health Unit Clerks Work?

They are typically found in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, nursing homes, and outpatient care units. Their role is crucial in any setting where patient care coordination and communication are priorities.

What Education and Certification Are Required to be a Health Unit Clerk?

A high school diploma or equivalent is generally required. Medical Assistant training equips candidates with relevant skills, although some employers may provide additional on-the-job training or prefer certification in Health Unit Clerk duties.

What Are the Benefits of being a Health Unit Clerk?

Working as a Health Unit Clerk offers the chance to support patient care directly through effective communication and coordination. This role serves as an excellent foundation for careers in healthcare administration and clinical support.

How Much Do Health Unit Clerks Make?

According to Indeed.com, salaries vary by region, but the mean annual wage for Health Unit Clerks is around $36,337, according to industry data as of May 2025. Salaries may vary depending on geographic location, level of experience and additional certifications.

What is the Job Outlook for Health Unit Clerks?

According to Zippia data, the Health Unit Clerk role is projected to grow 11 percent by 2028 with about 23,100 new jobs projected over the next decade.

Learn More

Click here to learn how to become a Health Unit Clerk.

 

5. Medical Claims Examiner

What Does a Medical Claims Examiner Do?

Medical Claims Examiners play a critical role in healthcare financing by reviewing and processing insurance claims to ensure that services billed are medically necessary and comply with policies. Their work helps prevent fraud, control healthcare costs, and ensure proper reimbursement for providers.

Where Do Medical Claims Examiners Work?

They are employed by insurance companies, government healthcare agencies, hospitals, and third-party billing organizations, often working in office settings.

What Education and Certification Are Required?

While some employers accept medical assistants with billing and coding experience, many prefer candidates with specialized training or certifications in medical billing and coding. On-the-job training is common in this field.

What Are the Benefits?

This career offers a behind-the-scenes role with a focus on healthcare policy, finance, and data accuracy. It’s well-suited for individuals who are detail-oriented and interested in healthcare administration.

How Much Do They Make?

According to ZipRecruiter, as of June 2025, the annual salary* for Medical Examiners is $43,917 a year. The average salary* for a Medical Claims Examiner varies greatly, due to skill level, location and years of experience.

What is the Job Outlook for Medical Claims Examiners?

According to the BLS, the overall employment of claims adjusters, appraisers, examiners, and investigators is projected to decline 5 percent from 2023 to 2033. This decline is because technology is expected to automate some of the tasks that these workers currently perform.

Learn More

Click here to learn how to become a Medical Claims Examiner.

 

6. Surgical Assistant and Technologist

What Do Surgical Assistants and Technologists Do?

Surgical Technologists prepare operating rooms by sterilizing equipment, arranging surgical instruments, and assisting surgeons during procedures. Their role is critical in maintaining a sterile environment and ensuring surgeries proceed safely and efficiently.

Where Do Surgical Assistants and Technologists Work?

They are primarily employed in hospitals, outpatient surgical centers, and specialty clinics that perform surgeries.

What Education and Certification Are Required for Surgical Assistants and Technologists?

This role typically requires completion of an accredited surgical technology program, which is often a 1-to-2-year certificate or associate degree. Certification through organizations such as the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA) enhances employment prospects.

What Are the Benefits of being a Surgical Assistant or Technologist?

Surgical technology is a high-responsibility career that places you at the heart of life-saving medical procedures. It offers professional respect, job stability, and opportunities for advancement into surgical assisting or related fields.

How Much Do Surgical Assistants and Technologists Make?

According to the BLS, the median annual wage for surgical assistants was $67,190 in May 2024. Salaries may vary depending on geographic location, level of experience and additional certifications.

What is the Job Outlook for Surgical Assistants and Technologists?

According to the BLS, as of April 2025, overall employment of surgical assistants and technologists is projected to grow 6 percent from 2023 to 2033, faster than the average for all occupations. The aging of the large baby-boom generation is expected to increase the demand for surgical procedures, which should result in a greater need for surgical assistants and technologists.

Learn More

Click here to learn how to become a Surgical Technologist.

 

7. Public Health Inspector

What Does a Public Health Inspector Do?

Public Health Inspectors protect communities by inspecting restaurants, water supplies, public facilities, and workplaces to ensure compliance with health and safety regulations. Their work prevents disease outbreaks and promotes safe environments, making a tangible impact on public well-being.

Where Do Public Health Inspectors Work?

Typically employed by government health departments, environmental agencies, and public health organizations, these professionals may work in urban or rural settings.

What Education and Certification Are Required for Public Health Inspectors?

Most positions require a bachelor’s degree in public health, environmental health, or a related field, along with specialized training. While a medical assistant diploma is valuable, additional education is generally necessary.

What Are the Benefits of being a Public Health Inspector?

This role offers meaningful community engagement, the satisfaction of safeguarding public health, and potential career paths in epidemiology, environmental health, or health education.

How Much Do Public Health Inspectors Make?

According to ZipRecruiter, as of June 2025, Public Health Inspectors earn an annual salary* of approximately $55,966. Salaries may vary depending on geographic location, level of experience and additional certifications.

What is the Job Outlook for Public Health Inspectors?

Although the BLS does not provide specific data for public health inspectors, occupational health and safety specialists and technicians perform similar roles and responsibilities. As of April 2025, employment in this occupation is projected to grow by 14 percent from 2023 to 2033—much faster than the average for all occupations.

Learn More

Click here to learn how to become a Public Health Inspector.

 

8. Health Information Technician (HIT)

What Does a Health Information Technician Do?

Health Information Technicians manage patient medical records, ensuring data accuracy, confidentiality, and proper coding for billing and research. Their expertise supports clinical decisions, insurance claims, and healthcare quality improvement initiatives.

Where Do Health Information Technicians Work?

They are employed across hospitals, physician offices, insurance firms, and government health agencies, often working with electronic health records (EHR) systems.

What Education and Certification Are Required for Health Information Technicians?

While an Medical Assistant diploma provides a strong foundation, obtaining certifications like the Registered Health Information Technician (RHIT) can boost career advancement opportunities.

What Are the Benefits of being a Health Information Technician?

This career offers a vital role in the digital transformation of healthcare, with growing opportunities for remote work and specialization in data analytics or health informatics.

How Much Do Health Information Technicians Make?

While the BLS does not specifically track Health Information Technicians, they monitor Health Information Technologists and Medical Registrars. The mean annual salary* for Health Information Technologists and Medical Registrars was $73,410 as of May 2024. Salaries may vary substantially depending on geographic location, level of experience and additional certifications.

What is the Job Outlook for Health Information Technicians?

While the BLS does not specifically track Health Information Technicians, they monitor Health Information Technologists and Medical Registrars. As of April 2025, employment of Health Information Technologists and Medical Registrars is projected to grow 16 percent from 2023 to 2033, much faster than the average for all occupations.

 

9. Nursing Assistant

What Does a Nursing Assistant Do?

Nursing Assistants provide essential daily care to patients, including helping with hygiene, feeding, mobility, and monitoring vital signs. They are often the first line of compassionate support for patients, building trust and comfort during vulnerable times.

Where Do Nursing Assistants Work?

They are employed in hospitals, nursing homes, long-term care facilities, and home health environments, supporting nurses and other medical staff.

What Education and Certification Are Required for Nursing Assistants?

Completion of a state-approved nursing assistant training program and certification as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) are required. While an Medical Assistant diploma shows healthcare experience, CNA training is distinct.

What Are the Benefits of being a Nursing Assistant?

This role offers meaningful patient interaction and serves as an excellent foundation for further nursing education and clinical career paths.

How Much Do Nursing Assistants Make?

According to the BLS, the mean annual wage for nursing assistants was $41,270 in May 2024. Salaries may vary depending on geographic location, level of experience and additional certifications.

What is the Job Outlook for Nursing Assistants?

According to the BLS, overall employment of nursing assistants is projected to grow 4 percent from 2023 to 2033, about as fast as the average for all occupations. As the baby-boom population ages, nursing assistants will be needed to help care for an increasing number of older people who have chronic or progressive diseases, such as heart disease and diabetes.

Learn More

Click here to learn how to become a Nursing Assistant.

 

10. Home Health Aide

What Does a Home Health Aide Do?

Home Health Aides provide vital assistance to patients who need help with daily living activities, often in their own homes. They support with bathing, dressing, medication reminders, and companionship, helping patients maintain independence and quality of life outside institutional settings.

Where Do Home Health Aides Work?

Home Health Aides primarily work in private residences, assisted living facilities, and community health programs, delivering personalized care.

What Education and Certification Are Required for Home Health Aides?

Training requirements vary by state, but many home health aides receive on-the-job training or complete certificate programs. An Medical Assistant background offers valuable healthcare knowledge but is not typically required.

What Are the Benefits of being a Home Health Aide?

This career offers flexible hours, the chance to build close patient relationships, and the fulfillment of helping individuals live safely at home.

How Much Do Home Health Aides Make?

According to the BLS data, Home Health Aides earn a mean annual wage of $34,990 as of May 2024. Salaries may vary depending on geographic location, level of experience and additional certifications.

What is the Job Outlook for Home Health Aides?

According to the BLS, employment of home health and personal care aides is projected to grow 21 percent from 2023 to 2033, much faster than the average for all occupations.

Learn More

Click here to learn how to become a Home Health Aide.

Transform Your Medical Assistant Diploma into a Launchpad for Diverse Healthcare Careers

Earning your Medical Assisting diploma is more than a milestone—it’s a springboard into a wide range of fulfilling roles within the healthcare field. Whether you’re eager to enter the workforce or looking to grow into a more specialized career, your Medical Assistant training opens doors to exciting opportunities beyond the traditional medical assistant role.

Some careers, like medical office assistants align with your current qualifications, allowing you to step in with little to no additional training. Others, such as surgical technologists or public health inspectors, see your Medical Assistant diploma as the perfect foundation for further education and advancement.

At Eagle Gate College, we believe your goals should never be limited. That’s why our accelerated Medical Assisting program is designed to train you in as little as 9 months—so you can start shaping the future you deserve sooner than you think. Take the first step today. Your healthcare career doesn’t need to stop at Medical Assisting—it can start there.