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Career Spotlight: Certified Medical Assistant (CMA)

One of the exciting aspects of the healthcare field is the wide variety of roles available, each offering unique opportunities to contribute to patient care. One such role is that of a Certified Medical Assistant (CMA). With a blend of clinical and administrative responsibilities, CMAs play a vital role in healthcare settings, ensuring smooth operations and high-quality patient care. Could this be a career for you? Read on to learn more about certified medical assistants.

What do Certified Medical Assistants do?

Certified Medical Assistants are versatile healthcare professionals who handle both administrative and clinical tasks. Their duties often include:

  • Taking patient histories and vital signs.
  • Preparing patients for examinations and assisting physicians during procedures.
  • Administering medications as directed by a physician.
  • Collecting and preparing laboratory specimens.
  • Performing basic laboratory tests.
  • Scheduling appointments, managing medical records, and handling billing or insurance forms.

In essence, CMAs are the backbone of many healthcare facilities, ensuring that both patients and healthcare providers have the support they need.

Where do they work?

Certified Medical Assistants can work in various healthcare settings, including:

  • Hospitals
  • Private medical practices
  • Outpatient care centers
  • Clinics
  • Specialized facilities like dermatology or pediatric offices

The flexibility of the role allows CMAs to choose work environments that match their interests and career goals.

Who do they work with?

CMAs work closely with physicians, nurses, and other healthcare professionals. They also interact with patients, often serving as a comforting presence during medical visits. In many ways, CMAs act as a bridge between patients and providers, ensuring clear communication and efficient care.

What is the job outlook for this profession?

The demand for Certified Medical Assistants is growing rapidly. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment in this field is projected to grow much faster than average due to the increasing need for healthcare services. CMAs earn a median annual salary of approximately $37,000, with opportunities for advancement or specialization in areas like pediatrics, cardiology, or geriatrics.

How do I become a Certified Medical Assistant?

To become a CMA, follow these steps:

  1. Complete a Medical Assistant Program: Enroll in an accredited medical assistant program, which typically takes 1-2 years to complete and results in a certificate, diploma, or associate degree.
  2. Earn Certification: After completing the program, pass the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) exam administered by the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA) to become certified.
  3. Gain Experience: Many entry-level positions allow CMAs to build skills and explore areas of specialization.
  4. Continue Education: CMAs can pursue additional certifications or training to enhance their expertise and career prospects.

In the Know: Professional organizations and resources

Several organizations provide valuable resources for aspiring CMAs:

Conclusion

The role of a Certified Medical Assistant is perfect for individuals who enjoy working in a fast-paced, patient-focused environment. With a mix of administrative and clinical responsibilities, CMAs are essential to the healthcare system. If you’re looking for a fulfilling career with room for growth, consider becoming a CMA. Start your journey today and make a difference in the lives of patients and providers alike!


Dennis Boakye ’26 is a junior with a major in Neuroscience and a minor in Mathematics. He is also a co-president of the Neurolawrence Club and the Synthetic Biology Club and the treasurer for the American Medical Student Association (AMSA, Lawrence Chapter) and the Black Student Union (BSU). Dennis is the current career peer educator for the Health and Medicinal Professions (HMP) and the Physical and Natural Sciences (PHN) career communities at Lawrence University. Connect with Dennis on LinkedIn.

Career Spotlight: Case Manager

One of the wonderful things about careers in health and social services is the variety of opportunities available. One excellent option that combines advocacy, organization, and compassion is the role of a case manager. With flexible job duties, opportunities to specialize, and direct interaction with clients, case managers play a crucial role in connecting people to the resources and care they need. Does this sound like it might be a good fit? Read on to learn about careers in case management.

What do case managers do?

Case managers help individuals access the resources and services they need to overcome challenges and improve their quality of life. This might involve coordinating care, advocating for clients, and ensuring that services are delivered effectively.

Case managers work with people facing a variety of issues, such as health concerns, housing instability, or financial difficulties. For example, a healthcare case manager might assist patients with discharge plans after a hospital stay, while a social services case manager could help individuals find stable housing or job opportunities. Some case managers also conduct research, teach, or work in policy development to address systemic issues in their fields.

Case managers often specialize in areas such as healthcare, mental health, child welfare, or elder care, allowing them to tailor their expertise to specific populations.

Where do they work?

Case managers can work in diverse settings, including hospitals, clinics, schools, government agencies, nonprofit organizations, and private practices. Some case managers even work remotely, using telehealth or virtual platforms to assist clients. This flexibility allows case managers to meet the unique needs of their clients wherever they are.

Who do they work with?

Case managers work closely with clients, as well as other professionals, to provide comprehensive care. In a healthcare setting, for instance, a case manager might collaborate with doctors, nurses, and therapists. In social services, they might coordinate with housing authorities, community organizations, and family members. This teamwork ensures that clients receive holistic support.

What is the job outlook for this profession?

Case managers earn a median salary of around $50,000–$65,000 per year, depending on their field and level of experience. The demand for case managers is growing, particularly in healthcare and social services, as organizations recognize the importance of coordinated care. This makes case management a stable and rewarding career choice.

How do I become a case manager?

Most case manager roles require a bachelor’s degree in a related field such as social work, psychology, or healthcare administration. Some roles may also require additional certifications, such as the Certified Case Manager (CCM) credential, which demonstrates expertise and commitment to the profession.

To prepare for a career in case management during college, consider these steps:

  • Take relevant courses: Classes in sociology, psychology, public health, and social work provide a strong foundation.
  • Gain experience: Volunteer or intern with organizations that offer social services or healthcare. Hands-on experience is invaluable.
  • Develop key skills: Focus on building communication, organization, and problem-solving skills.
  • Research certifications: Familiarize yourself with credentials like the CCM to understand future requirements.

In the Know: Professional organizations and resources

Several organizations provide excellent resources for aspiring case managers:

Conclusion

Case management is a dynamic and rewarding career that combines advocacy, coordination, and compassion. For any Lawrence student exploring career options, it’s an excellent choice for those who are passionate about helping others and solving problems. Wherever your career explorations lead you, thank you for considering the impactful and meaningful role of a case manager!

Dennis Boakye ’26 is a junior with a major in Neuroscience and a minor in Mathematics. He is also a co-president of the Neurolawrence Club and the Synthetic Biology Club and the treasurer for the American Medical Student Association (AMSA, Lawrence Chapter) and the Black Student Union (BSU). Dennis is the current career peer educator for the Health and Medicinal Professions (HMP) and the Physical and Natural Sciences (PHN) career communities at Lawrence University. Connect with Dennis on LinkedIn.

Shadowing and Its Experience: A Window into the World of Medicine

For individuals aspiring to pursue a career in the healthcare sector, particularly in the field of medicine, the practice of shadowing offers a unique and invaluable experiential learning opportunity. It enables them to immerse themselves in the daily routines of healthcare professionals and gain first-hand insights into the potential trajectory of their future careers. Whether situated within a bustling hospital, a serene clinic, or a specialized practice, shadowing affords participants a glimpse into the practical realities of patient care, decision-making processes, and the dynamic nature of the medical profession.

Shadowing, as an observational experience, entails students shadowing a healthcare professional, such as a physician, nurse, or surgeon, in order to observe their daily responsibilities. Throughout this period, students have the opportunity to witness patient interactions, observe medical procedures, and gain insight into the collaborative decision-making processes of healthcare teams. It is important to note that shadowing is distinct from an internship, as its primary focus is on observational learning rather than direct patient care.

The significance of shadowing extends beyond mere resume-building for those pursuing careers in healthcare. It serves as a means to acquire a more profound comprehension of the profession they are endeavoring to enter. Several reasons underscore the importance of shadowing, including its provision of real-world insights into clinical practice that surpass the limitations of traditional didactic instruction. Furthermore, it facilitates the confirmation of career inclinations and allows individuals to explore diverse healthcare specialties. Additionally, shadowing contributes to the cultivation of professionalism and the refinement of communication skills, both of which are indispensable attributes in the healthcare domain.

Shadowing offers benefits beyond merely enhancing a medical school application. It facilitates the development of effective communication skills, provides insights into the operational dynamics of healthcare systems, and presents networking opportunities with seasoned professionals. These connections may lead to mentorship opportunities and the acquisition of letters of recommendation for medical school applications.

Expectations During Shadowing

During a shadowing experience, students can anticipate a predominantly observational role. Depending on the healthcare setting, this may involve observing patient consultations, surgeries or medical procedures, and healthcare team discussions. While students will not actively participate in patient care, they will have a valuable opportunity to observe the medical process. It is imperative for students to maintain professionalism, respect, and attentiveness during their shadowing experience. Thoughtful questioning, when appropriate, can deepen understanding; however, students should be mindful of patient confidentiality and the physician’s time.

Optimizing the Shadowing Experience

To maximize the benefits of shadowing, preparation and reflection are essential. Here are some recommendations for students embarking on their shadowing journey:

Prepare Questions: Before the shadowing experience, students should research the physician’s specialty and formulate questions related to the daily routine, challenges of the field, or advice for medical school. Prepared questions demonstrate initiative and interest.

Be Observant: During shadowing, students should keenly observe both the medical aspects of care and the soft skills involved in patient interactions. Understanding how doctors manage patient emotions, stress, and complex family dynamics is equally important as understanding the medical aspects.

Reflect Afterwards: Following each shadowing experience, it is beneficial for students to take time to reflect on their learning. What aspects stood out to them? How did they perceive the doctor-patient interactions? What insights did they gain about the realities of working in healthcare? Reflection on these experiences will facilitate deeper insights and better preparation for future careers.

Personal Shadowing Experience

Shadowing has been one of the most enlightening and formative experiences in my journey towards a medical career. The opportunity to shadow hospice physicians and resident medical students at Thedacare and Mosaic Family Health allowed me to witness the intricacies of patient care and the significance of teamwork in healthcare. Each day presented new challenges and learning opportunities—from observing how a physician navigates high-pressure situations to witnessing profound moments of connection between doctor and patient. These experiences solidified my passion for medicine and provided a clear understanding of the path ahead.

Shadowing transcends being a mere requirement for medical school; it is a transformative experience that enables future healthcare professionals to gain critical insights into the realm they aspire to enter. It offers a chance to observe, learn, and grow, providing students with a profound understanding of the realities of medicine and preparing them for the journey ahead. Whether one is commencing their pre-med journey or is deeply engrossed in their studies, shadowing offers invaluable lessons, guidance, and inspiration for the road ahead.

Dennis Boakye ’26 is a junior with a major in Neuroscience and a minor in Mathematics. He is also a co-president of the Neurolawrence Club and the Synthetic Biology Club and the treasurer for the American Medical Student Association (AMSA, Lawrence Chapter) and the Black Student Union (BSU). Dennis is the current career peer educator for the Health and Medicinal Professions (HMP) and the Physical and Natural Sciences (PHN) career communities at Lawrence University. Connect with Dennis on LinkedIn.

Career Spotlight: Podiatrist

Do you want to be one step ahead in the medical field, and be able to make puns about your work? Consider becoming a podiatrist! Jokes aside, foot health is vital to the health of the whole body, especially because some serious conditions first present through symptoms in the lower extremities. Podiatrists serve a valuable role in medicine by specializing in this important area of the body. Read on to explore the field of podiatry and how you can get there! 

What do podiatrists do? 

In the same way that dentists specialize in mouths, podiatrists specialize in feet. Specifically, a podiatrist’s work includes preventing, diagnosing, and treating foot-related issues. They work with both injuries and diseases, and may also specialize in a subset of these issues or in a type of treatment. A common treatment specialty is surgery. Additionally, since no part of the body functions in isolation, podiatrists frequently work with ankles and other nearby leg structures. 

What is their work environment like? 

Podiatrists can work in a diversity of settings. These include medical centers such as hospitals, trauma centers, private practices, group practices, and surgical centers. They also include interdisciplinary practice settings like professional sports teams, long-term care facilities, and the armed forces. Podiatrists may also perform academic, educational, and research work in universities and schools of podiatry. This variety allows for a lot of flexibility in work hours, patients, and medical conditions. 

Who do they work with? 

This flexibility in work environment goes hand in hand with a flexibility in both patients and coworkers. These factors depend largely on a podiatrist’s work setting. For example, a podiatrist working on a sports team may see athlete patients who have primarily injury and repetitive stress-related issues, and may work closely with physical therapists. A podiatrist working in a surgical center, however, may see a variety of clients with serious conditions, and may collaborate with other hospital staff. 

What is the job outlook for podiatry? 

The job outlook for doctors of podiatric medicine is excellent. Thea average salary is $190,675, and podiatrists typically work between 30 and 60 hours per week. 

How do I become a podiatrist? 

Podiatrists are doctors, and complete medical school programs tailored to the study of podiatry. These typically take place at accredited podiatric medical colleges. There are currently nine accredited colleges of podiatric medicine in the United States, as well as over 200 podiatry programs at hospitals and other organizations. Browse a list of programs here. Programs take around four years to complete. The first two years include coursework and laboratory experience, and the last two years focus on clinical sciences and patient care. The four-year program is followed by a 36-month residency. 

In the Know: Professional organizations and resources 

There are several professional pediatric organizations, and all have helpful resources in the field of podiatry, the educational, residency, and licensing processes, and scholarships. Here are some of these organizations: 

Wherever your career journey leads you, thank you for dipping your toes into the world of podiatry!