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How to Get Started in a Medical Career (FAQ)

How to Get Started in a Medical Career (FAQ)

1. Is the Medical Field Right for Me?

The medical field plays a vital role in the nation’s health and wellness, while also providing several opportunities for successful careers. Medical technology continues to evolve, and some medical careers are growing very fast.

Whether you hope to work behind the scenes or one-on-one providing patient care, a medical career may be a great fit for you!

2. How Do I Qualify for the Right Medical School?

Requirements for admission into the right medical program may vary per state and/or school. However, most states and all medical schools require applicants to have earned a high school diploma or GED to be accepted into a program of your choosing.

3. Is it Time for a Career Change?

It’s never too late to change your career path. Whether you are coming from a desk job or a sales position, a medical career has so much to offer. The right training from the right school will provide you with the necessary tools and guide you on a new path filled with exciting opportunities. Read: Switching to Medical Assisting After 30

4. The Right Medical Program—What's My Perfect Fit?

Finding the right school can be a daunting task. The perfect fit is different for every student. Programs vary by school, but there are a wide variety of options. Depending on the medical program you choose, you will have multiple types of learning options available to you.

5. How Much Will the Right Medical Program Cost?

Tuition will vary by school and training program. Financial aid and student loan services are available to those who qualify.

Read how much is medical assistant training? to learn about the cost of a med assisting program. 

6. Do I Have Career Options?

Yes! For a medical billing and coding specialist, medical assistant, etc, there are a variety of educational paths and career opportunities to choose from. With various types of technology constantly evolving, you have the option to choose a medical career that fits your passion and goals.

7. Working with Patients—Will I Get Hands-On Experience?

When you first begin a medical program, you will learn in a classroom or online environment. There may also be times where you practice your skills on other students under the supervision of your program instructor.

8. Graduation—Then What?

Once you graduate from a medical program, you are required to take a written test to assess your knowledge as well as a hands-on test to assess your skill level. Once you pass your certification test, you will receive your state-approved license in the career path that you choose.

It’s a good idea to take the required exam soon after completion of your program, while the information is still fresh in your mind.

9. How Do I Get Licensed?

Take the test. Prior to the state-approved certification exam, you will have a chance to test your knowledge and practice your skills. Most curriculums—medical billing, coding, etc.—include study-skill development and test-taking strategies. You will also take tests periodically to prepare you for a final licensing exam.

Medical laws and regulations vary by state. Once you graduate from your chosen medical program, you will want to check the local regulatory agency for medical licensing and testing information within your state. You must register to take your certification exam prior to taking the test. Online registration is available in some states.

After taking the state-approved exam, it will take some time to receive your final grade. If you achieve a passing score, your official license will arrive by mail shortly after.

Once you receive your license, you will be ready to practice as a medical professional in the field at an office that best fits your personality and lifestyle. Try our medical practice exams to test your knowledge.

10. Ready to Work—How Do I Get Started?

After you have earned your specific medical license or certificate, it’s time to start looking for employment. Many hospitals, doctors offices and other medical facilities have open positions. Once you perfect your skills, seek an office that best fits your skill set and personality. The Med Career Now team would like to wish you the best of luck in the medical career that you choose!

If a career in the medical field looks good to you, what are you waiting for? Fill out the search application to connect with a school or look for a school near you.

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