Success isn't about the money you make, it is about the difference you make in people's lives.
A great resume is the backbone of any medical assistant’s job search. It is your opportunity to "sell yourself" with the help of your choice of words and abilities, and to make the best first impression upon a prospective employer.
It can be a tough task for you to write a professional medical assistant resume, even if you know all the qualities of a dedicated specialist. However, with our tips and guidance, you can create a resume that will impress HRs.
In this article, we'll walk you through the process of how to write an application for a medical assistant.
- Experienced Medical Assistant
- Entry-Level Medical Assistant
- Administrative Medical Assistant
- Clinical Medical Assistant
- Dermatology Medical Assistant
- Geriatric Medical Assistant
Medical Assistant Resume Examples
Experienced Medical Assistant Resume Example
Entry-Level Medical Assistant Resume Example
Summary:
Highly motivated and detail-oriented medical assistant with a passion for patient care. Adept at administrative tasks and skilled in clinical procedures. Eager to contribute clinical and administrative skills to a dynamic healthcare environment as an entry-level medical assistant.
Education:
Bachelor of Science
New York University, New York, NY
- Graduated: May 2021.
- Key Achievements: Conducted a research project on patient-centered care in community health clinics.
Work Experience:
Medical Assistant Intern | Mount Sinai Health System, New York, NY June 2021 - Present
- Shadowed and assisted physicians in patient examinations and procedures.
- Gained hands-on experience in administrative tasks, including scheduling appointments and managing patient records.
- Conducted patient intake, recorded vital signs, and updated medical histories under supervision.
Skills:
- Electrocardiography (ECG).
- Medical laboratory procedures.
- Wound care management.
- Patient education.
- Specimen collection and processing.
- Phlebotomy.
Certifications:
Phlebotomy Technician Certification (PTC) (National Healthcareer Association (NHA))
- Certified: January 2022
Administrative Medical Assistant Resume Example
Clinical Medical Assistant Resume Example
Objective:
Experienced and dedicated Clinical Medical Assistant with a strong background in providing quality patient care and support in a variety of medical settings. Seeking a challenging position where I can utilize my extensive experience and clinical skills to contribute to a dynamic healthcare team.
Experience:
Senior Clinical Medical Assistant | Tucson Medical Group, Tucson, AZ | July 2022 - Present
- Train new medical assistants on proper procedures, patient interaction, and use of medical equipment.
- Assist physicians and nurses with complex medical procedures such as biopsies, minor surgeries, and diagnostic tests.
- Perform advanced clinical tasks including EKG interpretation and medication administration.
- Coordinate patient referrals to specialists, ensuring timely and accurate communication between healthcare providers.
Medical Assistant | Sonora Community Health Center, Tucson, AZ | June 2020 - June 2022
- Provided direct patient care under the supervision of healthcare providers, including taking vital signs, performing EKGs, and collecting specimens for testing.
- Educated patients on treatment plans, medication instructions, and preventive healthcare measures.
- Managed inventory and ordering of medical supplies, ensuring adequate stock levels for patient care needs.
- Participated in quality improvement initiatives to enhance patient care processes and outcomes.
Education:
Associate Degree in Medical Assisting
Tucson Community College, Tucson, AZ
- September 2018 - June 2020
- Relevant Coursework: Medical Office Procedures, Anatomy and Physiology, Pharmacology
Skills:
- Proficient in taking vital signs, EKGs, and patient assessments.
- Experienced in medical terminology and documentation.
- Proficient in phlebotomy and specimen collection.
- Knowledgeable in infection control procedures and sterilization techniques.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Strong organizational abilities and attention to detail.
Certifications:
- Certified Clinical Medical Assistant, National Healthcare Career Association - June 2022
Dermatology Medical Assistant Resume Example
Geriatric Medical Assistant Resume Example
Summary:
Compassionate Geriatric Medical Assistant with five years of experience in providing exceptional care to elderly patients. Proficient in geriatric health assessments, patient scheduling, and medication administration. Adept at maintaining a calm and supportive environment, ensuring the comfort and dignity of senior patients.
Experience:
Geriatric Medical Assistant | Golden Years Senior Clinic Seattle, WA
April 2020 - Present
- Conduct comprehensive health assessments and vital sign monitoring for geriatric patients.
- Assist physicians with patient examinations, diagnostic procedures, and treatment plans.
- Coordinate patient appointments, manage scheduling, and ensure timely follow-ups.
Geriatric Care Coordinator | Silver Lining Health Center Seattle, WA
June 2019 - March 2020
- Developed and implemented individualized care plans for elderly patients, focusing on chronic disease management and preventative care.
- Provided mobility assistance and support with daily living activities to enhance patient quality of life.
- Maintained accurate and up-to-date patient records, ensuring compliance with HIPAA regulations.
Education:
Associate Degree in Medical Assisting with a Specialization in Geriatrics North Seattle College (Seattle, WA)
- Graduated: May 2019
Certifications:
- Certified Geriatric Medical Assistant (CGMA) | American Association of Medical Assistants (2019)
Skills:
- Expertise in geriatric patient care, including health assessments, mobility assistance, and chronic disease management.
- Proficient in electronic health records (EHR) systems, including SeniorCare and ElderMed.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build rapport with elderly patients and their families.
- Skilled in medication administration and monitoring, ensuring adherence to prescribed treatment plans.
- Knowledgeable in age-related health issues and preventative care strategies for seniors.
References:
Available upon request.
The demand for medical assistants is driven by advances in medical technology, an aging population, and expanding healthcare services.
Power Words for Medical Assistant Resume
It is critical to keep the language professional, concise, and straightforward.
Use such words when describing yourself in the medical assistant resume:
- Experience: organized, managed, implemented, developed, coordinated, supervised, recorded, researched;
- Knowledge: proficient, skilled, certified;
- Leadership: directed, guided, motivated, supervised, trained;
- Responsibilities: answered phones, scheduled appointments, collected patient information, processed insurance forms and payments;
- Patient care: administered medications and injections, assisted with medical examinations and treatments, monitored vital signs;
- Communication: interfaced with physicians and other healthcare professionals on patient issues. Educated patients and families on healthcare concerns;
- Problem-solving: identified and addressed potential challenges quickly;
- Organization: maintained accurate medical records and filing systems. Ensured compliance with HIPAA regulations;
- Customer service: provided outstanding client support to patients and their families;
- Technology: utilized various computer programs for scheduling appointments and processing insurance payments.
How to Fill in Contact Information
When detailing personal and contact information in a resume, including only the most relevant and up-to-date data is crucial.
A medical assistant resume should contain:
- The candidate's full name;
- Address;
- Phone number;
- Email;
- Additional contact details.
Any certifications or licenses related to the field of medicine must be included. A professional website or public social media profile link may also be added.
List Experience
It's necessary to organize resume sections accurately and effectively.
List your jobs chronologically, starting with your most recent position, so that HRs can see the order of your employment history at a glance.
For each position, include the company name, job title, and the duration of employment. Specify the main responsibilities and achievements and align your experience with the job you’re applying for.
Here are two examples of how you might show experience:
Medical Assistant, Harmony Health Center (2017 - 2019)
Marquette, MI
- Greeted patients, verified medical records, and entered patient information into a computer system;
- Prepared treatment rooms for patient examinations;
- Administered medications per doctor's orders;
- Assisted with minor surgical procedures;
- Scheduled patient appointments and processed insurance claims.
Medical Assistant, Harmony Health Center (2013-2017)
Marquette, MI
- Recorded vital signs such as blood pressure and temperatures;
- Collected specimens and prepared them for lab testing;
- Performed routine laboratory tests, including urinalysis and HgbA1C;
- Assisted physicians in examinations and treatments;
- Provided education to patients on health topics such as diet, exercise, and disease prevention.
These are two ways to show your assisting experience on your resume for medical assistant. Remember to include detailed descriptions of your responsibilities and any notable accomplishments demonstrating your value to the vacancy.
Demonstrate Education
When recording educational information for an assistant's resume, it should be listed in chronological order. Begin with the highest level of academic qualification and work your way backwards from there.
Look at the example of what your education history may be:
Medical Assistant Program – Pennsylvania State University, 2017
- Finished medical aide curriculum with a 4.00 GPA;
- Certified as a Medical Assistant by Pennsylvania State University;
- Completed coursework in vital signs, EKGs, pharmacology, and lab exams.
When adding an educational background to a medical assistant's resume, ensure to write the name of the school attended. Add the degree or certificate obtained and any coursework completed.
Feel free to mention any awards or other honors that relate to your course of study. If you won any scholarships or awards for having a high GPA, be sure to add that, too.
Ensure that the education section is in the right order. It contains a list of any achievements you have made during your academic career that might be applicable to the job.
By doing so, you will be miles ahead of other candidates.
While some medical assistants receive on-the-job training, most employers prefer candidates who have completed a formal medical assisting program. These typically lead to a certificate or diploma, and some offer an associate degree.
Skills for Medical Assistant Resume
Spotlight on hard and soft skills that illustrate your capability to perform excellent patient service when listing them on a resume.
Medical assistant resume skills worth highlighting:
Soft Skills:
- Communication: Listen and accurately convey information.
- Compassion: Empathize with patients.
- Interpersonal Skills: Work effectively with a variety of people.
- Adaptability: Adjust quickly to different situations.
- Focus on Details: Pay close attention to detail.
- Organization: Stay organized and prioritize tasks.
- Problem-Solving: Identify and resolve issues rapidly.
Hard Skills:
- Medical Terminology: Common knowledge of terms and abbreviations.
- Digital Medical Records (DMR): Proficiency in entering patient data into EMR systems.
- Clinical Procedures: Understanding basic techniques such as drawing blood or monitoring vital signs.
- Sterilization Control: Awareness of safety protocols for sterilizing instruments and preventing the spread of infection.
- Pharmacy Management: Understanding how medications are managed and dispensed in healthcare.
- Patient Education: Ability to provide clear patient education regarding medical treatments, medications, and preventive health measures.
Social Media: Yes or No
A medical assistant's resume may conclude social links to help them differentiate themselves and showcase their personality. But there are some pros and cons you'd better consider:
Pros:
- An online presence can demonstrate the assistant's apprehension of current trends, technology, and patient care.
- It can show possible employers that the applicant is comfortable using digital tools.
Cons:
- Employers may not be willing to consider a medical assistant who is too active on social media. Or those who have posted inappropriate content.
- They may find information about you that you do not want them to know.
- You need to be careful about what you post and write posts carefully to avoid misunderstandings and revealing confidential information.
Job-specific examples:
- A Twitter account that demonstrates comprehension of healthcare topics and current events.
- An Instagram account that features photos of their work in a hospital or clinic setting, showcasing their skills and expertise.
Medical Assistant Resume Summary
An excellent summary for a medical assistant should highlight the applicant's experience, skills, and qualifications. It should also be concise, easy to read, and tailored to the job description.
Example of a good summary of a medical assistant:
Dedicated and experienced Medical Assistant with 10+ years of experience providing administrative, clinical, and laboratory support to physicians in busy outpatient clinics. Highly adept at taking vital signs, preparing patients for exams, administering injections, collecting specimens, and performing routine diagnostic tests. Possesses superb organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills. Dedicated to delivering high-quality care services in compliance with applicable medical regulations.
Here are 3 tips on crafting a stellar medical assistant resume summary:
- Make sure the summary is mostly 4-5 sentences.
- Use industry words from the vacancy description to create a targeted summary for your desired role.
- Underline your relevant qualifications, experience, and skills pertinent to the position.
Medical assistants have a wide range of responsibilities that can include taking patient medical histories, updating medical records, scheduling appointments, assisting with examinations, drawing blood, administering medications, and performing basic laboratory tests.
Additional Information
Including this information on a resume is necessary to demonstrate the medical assistant's qualifications, credentials, and experience.
Hobbies can give employers insight into the applicant's personality and interests outside of work.
E.g. Working out, playing volleyball, cooking, and reading medical blogs and journals.
Courses provide evidence of knowledge acquired through education or training.
E.g. Completed a course in medical terminology, human anatomy and physiology, office administration, and pharmacology.
Multiple languages are an advantage in medical support roles, as you often communicate with patients from different countries.
E.g. Fluent in English and Spanish. Intermediate in French.
Awards show any recognition they may have received for their performance or other achievements.
E.g. Received the Medical Assistant of the Year award from the American Medical Assistants Association in 2019.
Internships bring real-world evidence of experience. References can help employers learn more about a candidate's character and skills.
E.g. Interned at a local family clinic and assisted doctors with patient care, administrative tasks, and clinical procedures.
Providing references and letters of recommendation from former supervisors or colleagues is vital for verification purposes.
E.g. Dr. Susan Johnson, MD
- Title: Chief Medical Officer.
- Hospital: Maplewood Medical Center.
- Contact: s.johnson@maplewood.com | (555) 123-4567.
Certificates demonstrate that an individual has achieved a certain level of expertise and qualification in their field. For example, becoming a CMA requires completing a formal course of study and passing an exam demonstrating mastery of the material.
E.g. Certified Professional Medical Assistant having certification from the National Center for Competency Testing (NCCT).
Use Online Resume Builder
Are you trying to craft the perfect medical assistant resume? Writing one from scratch can be daunting, and knowing where to start is difficult. Fortunately, we have a free resume builder that provides ready-made resume templates.
Using a pre-made medical assistant resume template is the quickest method of getting your resume up and running quickly. You may choose from various designs and layouts, so you're sure to find something that suits your needs. Plus, you won't have time to format your paper or worry about typos.
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So if you're looking for an efficient way to write a standout medical assistant resume, consider using an online resume template. Its time-saving features, professional design options, and customizable format make it the perfect solution for any job seeker.
How to Write a Medical Assistant Cover Letter
Composing a cover letter is necessary for the job search process as a medical assistant. It allows you to excel over other applicants and highlight your qualifications, strengths, and experience.
Consider these suggestions to keep in mind when writing the medical assistant cover letter for resume:
- Keep it brief. Ensure your cover letter is one page maximum. Keep it concise, focusing on why you would make a great assistant.
- Focus on skills and experience. Emphasize pertinent abilities and background in the medical sphere. To not miss any important details, use a cover letter template.
- Tailor the content of the job. You should customize every medical assistant resume to fit the specific job role you're targeting. Include details about how your skills and qualifications make you well-suited for the position. Or just use a template.
- Proofread it carefully. Check your letter multiple times before submitting it. Even minor errors can create a negative impression of you.
Now, let's look at examples of cover letters.
Bad medical assistant cover letter example:
Dear Hiring Manager,
I want to apply for the job of Medical Assistant at your clinic. I have previous work experience, which makes me suitable for this job. Please consider me for this position, as I firmly believe I can do well in this role.
Thank you,
Bill
The lousy example needs more particulars about why the applicant should be accepted. It doesn't enter any information about relevant skills or experience in the medical field.
An effective approach would be to provide definite examples of how their past work and education make them ideal candidates for this position. They should focus on tailoring the content specifically to the clinic they apply.
The candidate makes generic statements about wanting the job and being qualified without providing any evidence or explanation.
Good medical assistant cover letter example:
Dear Dr. Smith,
I am writing to express my interest in the Assistant Medical role at Riverstone Medical Facility. With three years of experience providing administrative support in a medical office setting and my certification as a Credentialed Medical Assistant, I believe I would be a valuable addition to your team.
During my tenure at HealthPro Clinic, I gained extensive experience in using electronic health record (EHR) systems such as MedSoft and CareEMR. I managed patient appointments, meticulously updated medical records, and ensured that all patient information was accurately entered and maintained in compliance with HIPAA regulations. My attention to detail and organizational skills contributed to a 15% reduction in scheduling errors and improved patient satisfaction scores.
Additionally, I have developed strong customer service skills through daily interactions with patients. I assisted patients with their healthcare needs, answered their inquiries, and provided clear instructions regarding treatment plans and medication schedules. This hands-on experience has honed my ability to communicate effectively and empathetically, fostering a positive environment for both patients and staff.
At HealthPro Clinic, I implemented a new inventory management system that streamlined the ordering process and reduced supply shortages by 20%. My proactive approach and problem-solving skills ensured that the medical office ran smoothly and efficiently, ultimately enhancing the overall patient care experience.
I am confident that these skills and experiences make me an ideal candidate for the role.
Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to your response.*
Sincerely,
Noel Sterns
Cover Letter for Medical Assistant Resume With No Experience:
Dear Ms. Alvarez,
I am writing to apply for the Medical Assistant opening at Cedarwood Health Clinic. I hold an undergraduate degree in healthcare administration, with coursework focusing on medical terminology, billing codes, and healthcare systems. My academic background, combined with my passion for healthcare, makes me an excellent fit for this role.
Throughout my studies, I have developed a solid understanding of medical terminology and billing codes, essential for accurate documentation and efficient office management. Courses such as "Medical Terminology," "Health Information Management," and "Healthcare Systems" have provided me with the theoretical knowledge necessary to excel in a medical assistant role. My education has equipped me with strong organizational and multitasking skills, which are crucial in a fast-paced healthcare environment.
Although I do not have direct experience in a medical office setting, I am eager to apply my knowledge and skills in real life. I am a quick learner, highly motivated, and dedicated to providing exceptional support to both patients and healthcare professionals. My enthusiasm for the healthcare field drives my commitment to making a positive impact on patient care and administrative efficiency.
I am confident that my educational background and passion for healthcare make me a valuable candidate for the Medical Assistant position at Cedarwood Health Clinic. I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to your team and support the delivery of high-quality patient care.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
Catherine Clark
Importance of Proofreading
Proofreading and spellchecking are essential components when applying for an assistant medical job. Poorly written medical assistant resume and cover letters can harm your opportunities of getting a job.
Not only should you ensure words are spelled correctly, but you also use proper grammar, punctuation, and capitalization. Correct words can make all the difference in how you present yourself to potential employers.
Here are some tips for checking a medical assistant resume:
- Read aloud. This can assist you in catching mistakes that may not be evident when reading silently.
- Have someone else look through it for you. A fresh set of eyes is great for catching errors you may have missed.
- Employ the spellchecker in Microsoft Word or in other software.
- Take a break after writing and return to it with fresh eyes.
- Use online resources to help with grammar and punctuation, such as Grammarly or Hemingway App.
In conclusion, spell-checking is essential to any job application, especially for a medical assistant position. Assure that your resume and cover letter are accurate, error-free, and properly formatted to maximize your chances of success!
Some medical assistants have the opportunity to specialize in specific areas such as ophthalmology, podiatry, cardiology, or dermatology. Specialization can open doors to more focused roles and potentially higher salaries.
Conclusion
Writing a medical assistant resume can be a difficult process. Thankfully, by adhering to some basic tips, it can be made much easier.
First, create a clean, clear structure. Bullet points and white space will help.
Include any certifications (such as in CPR and First Aid) or clinical procedures you’ve been trained in. Summarize any volunteer positions and internships, and tailor the resume to the job.
Highlight any customer service experience and describe how you interact with patients professionally.
Outline your past employment roles, including the responsibilities you held and any achievements you made.
Lastly, make sure that all your personal details are valid and current, so employers can contact you promptly. Or you can use a builder with free medical assistant resume templates to avoid any detail!
These tips can help you to make sure that your application gets noticed by the right people and emphasizes your qualifications!
FAQs
- Can I include an internship under work experience for a medical assistant resume?
- Absolutely. Use the term "Medical Assistant Intern" and detail your responsibilities, skills gained, and any notable experiences during the internship.
- How should I handle gaps in my work experience in a medical assistant resume?
- Be honest but strategic. If there are gaps, briefly explain them in a cover letter. Highlight any activities or learning experiences during that time, such as volunteering or additional training.
- How do I address a lack of direct work experience?
- Focus on transferable skills gained in related roles or during education.
- What are effective ways to prepare for a medical assistant job interview?
- Research common interview questions and practice your responses. Be ready to discuss your experiences, both clinical and administrative. Familiarize yourself with the healthcare facility and its values. Dress professionally and be prepared to ask thoughtfully.
- Are there any specific scenarios or challenges in the medical field that I should be prepared to discuss during an interview?
- Be ready to discuss how you handle stressful situations, work under pressure, and address conflicts within a team. Share examples of times you demonstrated resilience, adaptability, and effective problem-solving in a healthcare setting.
- What questions should I ask the interviewer?
- Inquire about the team dynamics, the typical patient population, and any opportunities for professional development. Ask about the facility's approach to patient care and how they integrate technology into medical assistant responsibilities.