River Valley Community College offers students swift entry to expanding medical occupation

By HAYLEY ANDERSON
Marketing Coordinator
River Valley Community College
CLAREMONT, NH — Did you know that when you enter a health care facility, you’re often first assisted by a Medical Assistant? The Medical Assistant role is unique to the health care industry because it combines clinical and administrative responsibilities, making the position vital to any health care team. Medical Assistants are cross trained to perform essential tasks, such as updating medical records, administering medications, or taking electrocardiograms, so that they can adapt to the specific needs of the medical practice.

The flexible nature of the Medical Assistant role makes it a high demand position within health care facilities including hospitals and private practices. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics (2022), employment of Medical Assistants is projected to grow 14% between 2022 and 2032 (a much faster rate than average). In Sullivan County, the median salary is $40,495 per year, with more experienced Medical Assistants earning up to $61,474 per year. What’s most exciting about this career path is that it opens an entry-level access point to a medical career without compiling years of education and debt.

That is why River Valley Community College has taken the initiative to offer a Medical Assistant Program. The program is approximately one semester long (22 weeks) and it fully prepares students to become certified through American Medical Technologists (AMT), a national certification and professional association. Additionally, students earn up to nine college credits, which can be used toward continued education.

Another advantage of the program is that it is taught by experienced instructors, who have worked in the medical field. They bring real-world knowledge and experience to the classroom, which helps students to better understand the material and its practical application. The program is divided into separate course modules, including Clinical & Lab Procedures, Medical Terminology, Legal & Ethical Issues in Healthcare and Medical Office Practice. This ensures that students obtain the clinical and administrative skills necessary to thrive in their careers.

Tuition for the program is $6,500. To make the program more accessible, there are statewide workforce training funds and scholarships available. These can cover up to 100% of the tuition fees for New Hampshire or Vermont students.

If you’re interested in applying, please visit rivervalley.edu/program/medical-assistant. Applications are open and the next class begins Jan. 29.