Train for an in-demand career through Oakton’s medical assistant program

Oakton Community College is currently accepting applications for enrollment in its medical assistant program, which provides training for a high-growth career.

The need for medical assistants continues to skyrocket due to an aging population, increased access to health care and advances in technology. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that employment in this profession is expected to grow by 23 percent well into the next decade.

Medical assistants perform administrative and clinical duties under the direction of a physician. Administrative duties may include scheduling appointments, maintaining medical records, billing and coding for insurance purposes. Clinical duties may include taking and recording vital signs and medical histories, preparing patients for examination, drawing blood and administering medications as directed by a physician.

Upon completion of the 44-credit hour program, students are eligible to apply for and take a national certification exam. Credentialed medical assistants are preferred by many employers in the industry.

“Oakton’s medical assistant program fills a void in the North Shore suburban area,” said Dean of Science and Health Careers Ruth Williams. “We are providing students a quality education to improve their lives while training healthcare workers to deliver the best in care for health care employers in the region.”

Oakton is currently accepting applications for the fall semester. Classes start Monday, Aug. 21, at the college’s Des Plaines campus, 1600 E. Golf Road. For more information, contact Julie Rosenberg, health career advisor, at 847-635-1266 or jmrosenb@oakton.edu.