Military Medic to Medical Assistant: What You Need to Know

What to keep in mind when considering going from military medic to medical assisting

As a military medic in the army, navy, air force or other branch, you have knowledge and skills which are highly valuable to potential employers. Becoming a medical assistant (MA) can help you apply your skills to a new career path in civilian healthcare. It can also provide a pathway to advanced career opportunities, such as healthcare administration or nursing. 

Here’s what you need to know about making the transition from military medic to medical assistant.

Military medic vs. medical assistant duties and responsibilities

Medical assistants typically provide care in a structured, non-emergency setting. They spend time with patients discussing their care needs and providing care. Typical duties of a medical assistant can include:

• Assisting physicians during patient exams
• Taking vital signs, including blood pressure, heart rate, and temperature
• Giving injections, including medicine and vaccinations 
• Drawing blood

Medical assistants may also perform administrative tasks, such as scheduling appointments, stocking supplies, and maintaining patient records.

Knowledge and skills gained as a military medic can translate well into the role of a medical assistant, including:

• Medical knowledge and clinical skills: Experience with basic medical procedures, emergency response such as first aid and CPR, and direct patient care.
• Technical skills: Familiarity with using and maintaining medical equipment and instruments, as well as electronic health records (EHR) systems.
• Communication and teamwork: Experience communicating with patients, explaining procedures, and providing reassurance. Also, the ability to work effectively as part of a team, coordinating with doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals.
• Adaptability and problem-solving: Ability to remain calm and make quick decisions in high-pressure environments, and the ability to adapt to different roles and responsibilities. Having experience as a 68W or combat medic is especially helpful.

Where do medical assistants work?

Medical assistants typically work regular business hours in healthcare settings, including doctor's offices, hospitals, clinics, and outpatient care centers. This may offer a positive work-life balance and predictable schedule.

Education and certification requirements

Employers may prefer to hire medical assistants who have formal education and/or credentials. A diploma in medical assisting helps prepare you for working in a civilian healthcare environment and may be completed in as little as eight months through our program.

You can qualify for the Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) certification exam by completing a medical assisting training/education program (in addition to a high school diploma, GED or equivalent). Choose an associate degree pathway and you can potentially qualify for the Registered Medical Assistant (RMA) exam.