Baker College

Medical assistants work primarily in medical offices and clinics, and have a wide variety of responsibilities. Their work includes everything from clinical procedures, such as drawing blood or performing EKGs, to administrative support for the entire healthcare team. It’s a profession that requires flexibility, critical thinking skills, attention to detail, and a desire to help people.

Pharmacy technicians are detail-oriented, with strong organizational skills. Working under the supervision of a licensed pharmacist, they measure, label, and record prescription amounts and dosages. Some are specially trained to prepare intravenous medications or to mix medications from basic chemical ingredients. They also greet customers, answer phone calls, maintain inventory, and process insurance claims.

Medical laboratory technicians work in clinical lab settings, under the supervision of a medical technologist, lab manager, or qualified physician. They collect samples and perform tests to analyze body fluids, tissue, and other substances. Their work plays a crucial role in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of disease, and requires good analytical judgment and close attention to detail.

Phlebotomy technicians are important members of medical lab teams. They work closely with patients to collect blood samples that are used for tests, transfusions, donations, or research. When blood is drawn for testing, it goes to a lab for analysis, and doctors use the results to determine whether the patient has any medical conditions that require treatment.

Dental assistants are licensed healthcare professionals who administer direct restorative and preventive dental services to dental patients, under the supervision of a licensed dentist. They are unique members of the dental healthcare team as they care for their patients.