Medical Assistant Training for Adults
Adults Returning to Vocational Training

Despite the present bad economy with high unemployment rates healthcare and medical services continue to thrive. There are over 819,000 physicians and surgeons, 2.4 million registered nurses, 77,000 occupational therapists, 182,000 physical therapists, 94,000 respiratory therapists and thousands of other allied health professionals in America's hospitals alone. Over 819,000 physicians and surgeons, 2.4 million registered nurses, 77,000 occupational therapists, 182,000 physical therapists, 94,000 respiratory therapists across the USA are in consistent need of qualified medical assistants.

"Am I too old to start a medical assistant career at 40+ years?"

As to age, here is what the director of a large regional medical center who hires medical assistants for their ambulatory offices has told us: "We give preference to the mature applicant. We know from experience that the mature medical assistant who brings both life and work experience to the table is significantly better able to adjust, identify, and meet our physician's and patient's needs."

Going back to school for a post-secondary education or vocational training to seek a meaningful career path and employment later in life is not as unusual as one might think. As the economy and job market changes, so do people's interest and reasons to begin the journey on a new career path. Adults considering vocational training to enter into medical assisting disciplines must ask themselves questions, such as:

• can I afford the training
• will I keep my present job while attending school
• how long do I want to study
• do I want to do hands-on work or teach
• do I want to go for a diploma or a degree
• how many years do I wish to remain in the profession (until I retire)

As to whether it is practical to go back to school in mid-life to learn a new trade or transition into a new field is a question only "that" person can answer for themselves. It is a decision that each individual must make based on their own circumstances, feasibility, availability, abilities and needs. 

The U.S. Department of Education's website provides information and publications on preparing for and funding education beyond high school to help you make informed decisions regarding all phases of a college, technical or trade school education and career choices.