Should you join a medical assistant organization?

If you want to become a medical assistant, there are a number of things you can do to improve your employment outlook: earn a medical assistant credential, gain experience, volunteer. But one thing that is often overlooked is the benefit of joining a medical assistant organization, such as the American Association of Medical Assistants. Although you will likely have to pay membership enrollment dues, there are many reasons why joining one of these local or national organizations may help your career.¹

Networking opportunities

As you work to build a career in medical assisting, networking will be an important means of forging professional connections that may help you find a job or advance your career. When you are a member of a national medical assisting organization like AAMA, you will be able to connect with other members via LinkedIn or attend professional networking events hosted by the national organization or affiliated local chapters and state societies.

Professional credibility

As you formulate your resume to apply for medical assisting jobs, being able to list that you are a member of a national medical assisting organization can provide more professional credibility. It can not only signal to employers that you are serious about a career as a medical assistant and have taken the initiative to gain all the knowledge necessary to be successful, but can also set you apart from your peers.

Volunteer opportunities

A great way to gain experience in medical assisting and boost your resume in the process is by volunteering. Sometimes it can be difficult to find volunteer opportunities in the medical field, but if you are a member of a medical assisting organization you will likely be kept appraised of local events you can attend where you can offer your services.

¹ American Association of Medical Assistants, ‘AAMA Membership Benefits,’ 2013 – http://www.aama-ntl.org/benefits.aspx