5 Requirements of a Medical Assistant You’ve Already Mastered as a Parent

Are you a stay-at-home parent who is looking at getting back to work? Pursuing a dream and a career can be a scary concept when you have been out of the workforce for a long time. Have you ever considered becoming a Medical Assistant? Funnily enough, there are five requirements of a Medical Assistant you’ve already mastered as a parent.

Multi-Tasking

Why it matters: As a Medical Assistant, you will be expected to be a jack-of-all-trades, no matter if your job is in a small office or in a large hospital. You may be required to take vitals, give medical assistance and care for another patient – sometimes all at once. Multi-tasking is an important piece of both parenting and being a Medical Assistant.

How parenting helps: If you are a parent, you can multi-task. It’s that simple. You learn to do things with one hand while holding the baby in the other. You have more than one kid? You’ve got this down.

Organization

Why it matters: Medical Assistants need to be very organized. Mistakes can jeopardize someone’s health. Having a well-planned out day can help make your life easier. Remaining calm during stressful situations will not only help the patient remain calm, but your stress levels will thank you too.

How parenting helps: You must have organization in your day to ensure that you do not forget anything and so that your kids are well taken care of. Diaper bag? Check. Keys? Check. Bottles? Check. Kids? Check.

Communication

Why it matters: Communication with patients is an essential part of the job. Patients can’t read minds and you must use a language that they will understand, not just medical terminology. You also communicate with the nurses and physicians on a regular basis. Having clear and concise communication is critical.

How parenting helps: As a parent, you know that communicating with a child can be difficult, but it is also critical and an essential part of parenting. Children can’t read minds either. Raising your voice without any explanation is just asking for a catastrophe.

Empathy

Why it matters: This may be self-explanatory, but you need empathy as a Medical Assistant. You can’t go to a patient’s family who is waiting in the hospital and tell them their loved one is sick without showing empathy and that you care.

How parenting helps: As a parent, you’ve already learned you must be empathetic to the needs and feelings of your children. If they are having a bad day at school, it is important to sit down with them, ask them what is going on and help them solve their problems with care and compassion.

Customer Service

Why it matters: Medical Assistants spend the majority of their workday in front of patients, whether it’s on the phone or in person. Sometimes patients can be difficult. You cannot let your emotions control how you react to them. You may be the first and last person they see at the doctor’s office, so the impression you leave on them is crucial.

How parenting helps: You want your children to be happy. When they’re misbehaving, you can’t yell at them and send them to their room. It’s important to explain what they did wrong and why it made you upset. You are the person who your child looks up to and most times, kids will grow up to be just like their parents. It’s important to have patience with them and help them live the happiest life.

Medical Assistant Program at EBI Career College

Do you have what it takes to become a Medical Assistant? Have you already mastered the five requirements to be a Medical Assistant? Take the plunge and call EBI today at 607-729-8915 to learn more information about our Medical Assisting program.

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EBI Career College Offers a Wide Range of Degree & Certificate Programs to Further Your Career in 2020

With a new year comes a new beginning. A time to start fresh and reflect on where we are in our lives and where we want to see ourselves in the future. With 2020 upon us, most of us have already formulated a list of well-intentioned resolutions to gear us up for the year ahead. If planning for a new career path is on your list, EBI Career College is the perfect choice for everyone from high school graduates looking to further their education, to established workers looking to expand their knowledge or expertise in a field. Here is a snapshot of the degrees and programs offered at EBI.

Associate Degree Program

For prospective students looking to earn an Associate Degree, EBI offers the following areas of study in a 16-month program.

• Accounting
• Medical Assisting
• Medical Coding & Reimbursement Specialist

Certificate Programs

For prospective students looking to earn a certificate in a specialized area in a short period of time, the following areas of study can be completed within 12 months.

• Medical Coding & Billing

EBI Career College wishes you a happy, healthy and prosperous new year. If you’re planning a career change or considering furthering your education, we invite you to give us a call at 607-729-8915 or visit us online at www.ebi.edu to explore your options. From our family to yours, Happy New Year!

If you are curious about a career in the growing medical field but don’t want to spend years in school, Medical Assisting could be a good fit for you. This occupation provides a stable and meaningful career, there are a variety of career paths, and it is expected to have a strong future.

What is a Medical Assistant?

Medical Assistants complete clinical and administrative tasks, depending on the type of healthcare facility you work in and the career path you follow. General responsibilities of Medical Assistants include:

• General reception duties
• Assisting in patient exams
• Taking vital signs
• Administering medications and immunizations
• Patient and family education and instruction

Why get Certified?

For some positions, a certification may be required, but even when it is not, many employers would rather hire a Certified Medical Assistant over one who is not certified. Additionally, a certification demonstrates that you have skill, knowledge, and expertise. It also demonstrates that you received a quality education, because you cannot qualify for the CMA exam unless you complete a certificate or diploma program at an accredited institution.

Career Outlook

Medical Assistants have one of the strongest job outlooks of many careers. As the population ages and medical needs grow, these professionals will continue to be in demand. Aside from the job growth, the career outlook is good for your personal development because there are a variety of work environments you could choose: a hospital, a physician’s office, an outpatient center, or more.

Steps to Receive your Medical Assistant Certification

1. Find an accredited program. You can complete EBI’s Medical Assistant program in as few as 16 months.
2. Study hard and prepare for your certification exam.
3. Complete a practicum or externship.
4. Take the CMA Certification Exam
5. Celebrate!

Enroll in Medical Assistant Classes at EBI

If you’re ready to earn your certification, consider enrolling in a local Medical Assisting program. At EBI, you can complete an Associate Degree in Medical Assisting in as few as 16 months with a full-time course load. EBI’s program will qualify you to sit for the certification exam given by the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA). Contact EBI at 607-729-8915 to learn more about our school’s Medical Assistant classes and how they can further your career.

A Medical Assistant Certification is an additional qualification for trained Medical Assistants that can develop your professional skills and improve job security and employment opportunities. At EBI, you can complete the Associate of Occupational Studies (AOS) degree in as few as 12 months. That means you can be ready for your certification exams faster.

Why become a Medical Assistant?

This occupation is growing strong, which equals job security. Because the job is full of opportunity and offers a wide variety of tasks, you’ll never get bored. If you’re the kind of person who wants to go home everyday knowing you made a difference, this is the career for you. Helping patients get their best care, protecting their medical information, and supporting nurses and physicians can provide personal as well as professional fulfillment.

What does a Medical Assistant do? 

Medical Assistants complete both administrative and clinical tasks. A variety of responsibilities fall under this job description, from recording patient history to entering patient information into medical records. Other skills this occupation requires include taking vital signs, scheduling appointments, assisting physicians with exams, and instructing patients on how to take prescribed medications. There are opportunities to work in diverse environments, too—from hospitals to ambulatory services, to private and family health practices.

How is the career outlook?

As the medical field continues to grow, Medical Assistants are in demand. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment is projected to grow 23% between 2018 and 2028. This is much faster than the average for other careers. The prospects are good, but they are likely stronger for those who earn their certification. 

How do I gain certification?

At EBI you can get the support you need to prepare for your certification exams. Throughout the curriculum, you’ll review medical terminology, administrative procedures, medical law, and other important topics covered in the exams. Your coursework and our supportive environment can be an important part of your efforts to gain certification.

Prepare for your Medical Assistant Certification at EBI

It’s a great time to begin a healthcare career. Contact EBI at 607-729-8915 to learn more about our Medical Assistant Certification classes and how they can further your career.

Medical Billing and Coding is a booming profession. As the medical field becomes increasingly digital, Medical Records professionals are in-demand.  These professionals, also known as Medical Billing and Coding Technicians, are an essential part of the healthcare team. If you want job security and are looking for a career where you can make a difference, consider learning medical coding at EBI.

What is Medical Coding?

Medical Coders manage medical records and health information. They work hard to protect sensitive patient information, categorize information for insurance reimbursement, and classify medical and treatment information into a system of codes that medical and insurance professionals use.

Why learn Medical Coding?

The job outlook is strong; according to Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment in the profession is expected to grow at 11% between now and 2028, which is much faster than the average for most professions. Beyond this crucial fact, Medical Coding has many other benefits: you’re an important part of helping patients access the care and insurance reimbursement they need and there’s also the potential for diverse career options. There are even opportunities to work from home.

What soft skills do I need?

If this career sounds attractive, you should know which soft skills will help you in your training and career.  You can learn the technical aspects at EBI, and your chances of career success increase if you also possess skills such as basic computer knowledge and a detail-oriented mind. Integrity is important for health technicians, because one of their major responsibilities is protecting sensitive patient information. Analytical and detail-oriented people can succeed in this occupation because the data must be accurate, and technicians must understand medical records and diagnoses.

How to get started?

If you possess those personal attributes and are interested in working with patient data and technology, it’s time to take the next step. Most jobs in the field require post-secondary education. EBI’s Medical Coding programs can give you the skills employers are looking for. You will learn billing software, insurance claims reimbursement, data protection, and other necessary skills.

How to Learn Medical Coding at EBI

EBI offers two paths into this career. Our Medical Billing and Coding Certificate allows you to gain accelerated, hands-on training and earn your certificate in as few as 12 months. If you want deeper skill training to open your career options and advancement, enroll in our Medical Coding and Reimbursement Specialist Associate Degree and earn your degree in as few as 16 months. To request additional information about EBI’s programs, courses, and more, call us today at 607-729-8915.

Writing A Stand Out Cover Letter

A resume and cover letter work in tandem to tell an employer, and more specifically a hiring manager, why you’re worth a consideration for hire. Your resume informs on your skills and experience. Your cover letter is your opportunity to convince the hiring manager why you’re the best candidate for the job. It should make clear why your skills and experience are aligned with the requirements of the job, and how your accomplishments translate directly to meeting the company’s needs.

 There are a lot of different approaches to writing cover letters, but all of them have one thing in common: be memorable. Your cover letter needs to not only tell the employer how your skills fit the position, but also why you are a better fit than other candidates. So let’s start from the top and work our way down the elements that work together to create a breakthrough cover letter.

Opening Lines

First off, always try to address the cover letter to a specific person, be it the hiring manager or department head of the position you’re applying to. Starting with addresses like “To whom it may concern,” or “Dear sir or madam,” is impersonal and shows that you didn’t do the small amount of research needed to find out who you’re addressing.

The opener’s job is to make the hiring manager want to keep reading. Entice them. A good idea is to start by expressing your passion – your “why” for wanting to work in that field, at that company, or in that specific position. You don’t necessarily have to keep it short, but your opener certainly shouldn’t be a run-on sentence turned paragraph. To be memorable, often times it is best to keep it powerful and punchy. Another opening option is starting with professional attributes or accomplishments. This lets the hiring manager know you’re qualified off the bat, so you can spend the rest of the letter detailing how you’ll meet the company’s needs. Still another option is opening with humor, showing a bit of creativity. A short joke or anecdote relevant to the position or field can help you be memorable. It’s worth clarifying here that your opening line, and indeed entire cover letter, needs to be tailored to the company to which you’re applying. If it’s a creative agency, a joke will work. If it’s a law firm, accounting firm, or corporate business, opening with attributes and achievements works. Just be sure to do your research first.

Body

The meat of your cover letter is the substance that will land you the job. In the letter’s body, you should include a bit of personal information, some relevant professional examples, and a distinguisher that sets you apart from other candidates. It’s your cover letter’s job to separate yourself from other candidates and show that you can meet the needs of the company. Don’t spend a lot of time listing what your resume already covers like education, skills, and work history – unless of course it applies directly to the position, or you’re complimenting it with an example.

 Listing your skills is boring and repetitive of your resume. Instead, show your skills by providing examples of times when you’ve used your skills to accomplish something. You have to demonstrate your value. A good way to do this is to address the company’s needs directly. Start by identifying a problem the company is facing or a goal you think the company should meet. Say, for example, you’re applying for an account coordinator job at a business. You could write something like:

“As an account manager veteran, I know how difficult it can be to stay on schedule while handling multiple clients in different industries.”

This tells the hiring manager you know the problems the company faces because you’ve experienced them personally. Identifying a problem like this will do wonders for your credibility, but you also need to demonstrate that you can solve problems.

Convince the hiring manager that you are the solution to the problem you just exampled. This is where you can mention your work experience, education and technical skills. Make sure to keep your solution relevant, and as always, address the company’s needs.

“Having managed [number of] clients in [previous position or education] I can immediately jump in and create an efficient schedule for organizing your clients’ project timelines, and communicate those timelines to clients to address any of their additional needs.”

Providing a solution like this shows that you know how to meet the position requirements. The “any of their additional needs” bit is always smart to include because it shows that you are ambitious – always try to add unique additional value.

Closing and General Etiquette

In closing, you should definitely thank the hiring manager for their time in reading your cover letter. Keep this part short, polite, and simple. Don’t write a long, over-admonished thank you paragraph. Be professional. You should also demonstrate confidence, competence, and genuine interest in the company. Express that you are eager to learn more about the position duties (production needs, client engagement, marketing, etc.) and how you can help meet the company’s needs. Again, don’t overdo it here. Then simply sign off with a polite “Best,” or “Sincerely,” and your full name.

A few general tips not covered in the article so far, but are equally important:

• Write multiple drafts and EDIT each one carefully before sending your final cover letter to an employer
• Tailor your letter’s tone to match that of the company
• EDIT – no grammar mistakes or careless misspellings
• Keep your cover letter to one page
• Remember to be memorable
• For you future’s sake – EDIT

Entry-Level Jobs in Healthcare Administration

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, careers in medical records and healthcare management are growing at a significant rate. Yet, because positions in these fields often require advanced degrees and several years of experience, you may be unsure of how to get your foot in the door. Though higher education and tenure can certainly help further your career, there are three common entry-level jobs in healthcare administration that you can obtain with an associate degree.

Administrative Coordinator

Of all the professionals in healthcare administration, administrative coordinators are likely the ones you’re most familiar with. These professionals function as the “face” of the facility. Administrative coordinators answer phones, verify insurance benefits, and bill clients and insurance companies. In other words, they are responsible for most of the day-to-day administrative duties in doctor’s offices and hospitals. So, if you are brand new to the healthcare industry, working as an administrative coordinator could be a great way for you to learn how medical facilities operate.

Office Manager

Already have prior healthcare or management experience? Consider pursuing a position in office management. Office managers are the link between upper management and the rest of an organization’s employees. In small practices, office managers may work under a single physician, while in larger facilities, they may take direction from a full executive team. Office managers are in the unique position to see how decisions made behind the scenes directly affect patients and staff members alike.

Executive Assistant

If you’d like to work your way up to upper management, it is wise to first spend some time as an executive assistant. Executive assistants work closely with c-suite executives to help ensure that each of their projects is seen to completion. This position requires high-level organization and communication skills, but it is an excellent way for aspiring executives to gain real-world experience while completing their bachelor’s and master’s degrees.

Land One of These Entry-Level Jobs in Healthcare Administration

Though the positions listed above are often deemed “entry-level,” they still require a basic understanding of medical terminology, electronic medical records, and medical coding and billing. If your knowledge in any of these areas is lacking, contact EBI’s Vestal campus at (607) 729-8915 or check out EBI’s medical office technologies degree program to learn how you can obtain the education you need to begin a career in healthcare administration.

Medical Billing & Coding Certificate

Do you have the characteristics of a medical Billing & Coding Certificate?

A medical coding and billing career can prove to be as challenging as it is rewarding. At EBI Career College, we want to prepare you for a new career with the skills and industry knowledge needed to be successful in your field. However, there are other qualities you’ll need to cultivate if you’re going to be fully prepared to take on this rapidly growing career. 

If you are considering a medical coding and billing career, make sure you have these important qualities:

• Detail oriented: When dealing with health records, it’s important to have a keen focus on small details when recording and coding patient information. Medical records professionals are responsible for making sure health information data is managed in an accurate and efficient way. With so much information changing hands throughout each day, it’s important to stay focused on every detail.

• Discretion: As a medical biller and coder, you have access to sensitive medical information. Every patient has a right to privacy, and sharing a patient’s private information can lead to legal problems. Discretion is a must in a medical billing and coding career.

• Assertive: As a medical biller and coder, each case can have opportunities to interact with a variety of people in the medical field, including physicians, finance personnel as well as other medical billers and coders. If a hostile patient collection case arises, it’s important to remain assertive in resolving the issue. Diffusing a patient’s emotions while problem solving comes with the territory.

• Analytical: Another key trait is the ability to comprehend and explain a medical diagnosis and convert the information into the proper medical record codes. A basic grasp of medical terminology and human anatomy, is essential as well.

• Technical: Technology is here to stay and will continue to play a larger role in medical billing and coding. Hospitals and physicians’ offices are now transferring their hard copy records to electronic health records. The ability to quickly adopt new technical skills and learn new software programs easily can greatly improve your chances for a long and successful career.

Earn your Medical Billing & Coding certificate in as little as 12 months

Now is a great time to start a career in the healthcare field. You can complete your certificate program in as little as 12 months. To learn more about our Medical Coding and Billing certificate program in Vestal, NY, call 607-729-8915.

Learn Medical Billing & Coding Program

Earn your Medical Billing & Coding certificate in 12 months

For a variety of reasons, the health care industry has been expanding for the last several years, driving demand for qualified professionals to fill positions. If you’re considering a new career, EBI can help you get the medical billing and coding training you need to begin a great career.  

Also known as medical records or health information technicians, medical billing and coding specialists organize and manage health information data. Although related, medical billing and medical coding are two separate functions. A medical coder transcribes the notes and records from doctors and medical staff. A medical biller uses that information to ensure the practice gets paid by patients or third parties such as insurance companies.

What you’ll learn in the medical billing & coding program

Medical Coding and Billing training includes communication, technology, and of course, medical specialty courses. General education classes include computer and software training. You’ll take courses to build your knowledge base, including medical terminology, anatomy and physiology, and medical office procedures. Advanced courses include Health Care Reimbursement and Health Information Technology.

Are you ready for a career in a growing field?

The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that the demand for qualified individuals to fill medical billing and coding jobs will rise 22% by 2022. If you are ready for a challenging career, now is a great time to consider the Medical Coding and Billing certificate program at EBI. You can complete the program at our medical billing and coding schools in Vestal, NY.

For more information, call 607-729-8915.

Medical Coding & Billing Interview

Common questions you could be asked during a medical billing & coding interview

The worst part about a job interview can be the nerves. Most of the time, a job interview can feature pretty standard questions (ex: “Why do you want to work here?” or “Where do you see yourself in 5 years?”) But a medical billing and coding interview can present a very specific line of questioning.

At EBI Career College, we want you to be prepared for anything when you are looking for your first healthcare job. Here are a few very common questions you probably will be asked during your medical billing and coding job interview:

What’s your understanding of medical terminology?

One of the goals of the medical billing and coding program at EBI basic is to help you establish a basic understanding of medical billing terminology. In an interview, you should be able to express your familiarity with the more basic medical terms related to billing and coding and how they relate to the billing process.

What are your certifications?

Certification isn’t required for a medical billing and coding career but it shows you are committed to your profession. If you are not certified yet, simply explain you are working towards certification. After completing the medical billing and coding program, our graduates can qualify to sit for the AAPC medical coding certification exam.

Have you worked with Medicare and Medicaid clients in the past?

Because government payers can be challenging to bill for and typically requires more paperwork, Medicare and Medicaid claims can be frustrating to deal with. Providers who have a lot of Medicare patients will want to know the limits of your knowledge the process and your ability to resolve these situations quickly.

What types of computer programs and software are you familiar with?

Be sure to mention any and all computer-related skills you have acquired – from Microsoft Word to specialized programs you have learned during training. At EBI, our coursework includes Introductions to Computers, Computerized Keyboarding and Computer Applications in addition to our medical billing and coding curriculum.

Earn your Medical Billing & Coding certificate in as little as 12 months

Now is a great time to start a career in the healthcare field. You can complete your certificate program in as little as 12 months. To learn more about our Medical Coding and Reimbursement certificate program in Vestal, NY, call (607) – 729-8915.