Online Medical Assistant Programs in Ohio: Finding the Right School

What to Expect from Ohio Programs

The path to becoming a medical assistant can be as short as six weeks, with more rigorous programs running between 18 months and two years. Program timelines vary based on the type of degree, clinical requirements (or lack thereof), and certification goals.

In asynchronous programs, students can finish their coursework when and where it’s most convenient. This format is commonly found in online certificate courses with no clinical requirements. Meanwhile, synchronous programs follow a set schedule and are more widely utilized in hybrid or in-person medical assisting programs.

Whether or not your program has clinical requirements or hands-on training generally depends on the type of medical assistant certification it is geared toward. Some credentials also require you to graduate from an accredited program to sit for the exam, while others accept a high school diploma and work experience. To help you differentiate between these factors, we’ve outlined three of Ohio’s standout medical assistant programs for comparison.

Get Answers: Medical Assistant Student FAQs

If you’re still unsure which online or hybrid program is right for you, more information about becoming a medical assistant in Ohio can help. Below are some of the most common student questions about paying for school, becoming credentialed, networking, and other key points for future medical assistants.

Are scholarships or grants available for online medical assistant students in Ohio?

Yes. Financial aid in the form of scholarships and grants is often available to medical assistant students in Ohio through private organizations, the government, and your school. The awards available will depend on factors like your academic credentials, financial need, and school. School-administered funding may be available to all students or students of specific programs.

Because of the low barrier to entry and short duration, you’ll find various affordable MA program options available to you.

Are there professional organizations or networking opportunities for Ohio medical assistants?

Yes. Ohio’s primary professional organization for medical assistants is the Ohio State Society of Medical Assistants (OSSMA), a state branch of the American Association of Medical Assistants. Joining a professional organization like OSSMA gives you access to grants and scholarships, networking events like the annual AAMA Annual Conference, and more.

You’ll want to seek online resources for MAs during your study and after graduation. Many of these organizations, databases, and tools will help you gain the essential skills to become a highly qualified medical assistant.

Do I need to complete any prerequisites before applying?

Every online medical assistant program in Ohio has its own unique admission process, so prerequisites can vary significantly between programs. Some require applicants to be placed into one or more prerequisite classes. In contrast, others, like that at Cuyahoga Community College, require students to not just enroll in, but complete four prerequisite courses. Most programs, including Miami University, don’t have any prerequisites.

If you’re looking to pursue a degree or advanced education, like joining an MA to LPN bridge program or continuing on to nursing school, you may need additional qualifications. Reach out to your program of interest to ask about prerequisites.

How much should I expect to pay for my program?

Generally speaking, you can expect to pay a few thousand dollars for your program. However, the price of completing an Ohio medical assistant certification program online depends on several factors. Earning a two-year associate degree will cost more than a one-year certificate. You should also note whether your school is public or private, the latter of which will almost always charge expensive tuition. Finally, consider the availability of financial aid, which could make an otherwise unaffordable program cheaper than those with lower sticker prices.

What does an online medical assistant curriculum in Ohio cover?

Once again, this answer will vary depending on the program you choose. However, most online medical assistant certification programs in Ohio’s curriculum cover two primary practice areas: administrative and clinical. This means you’ll take courses in everything from human anatomy and physiology to medical billing and coding, as well as pharmacology and medical terminology. You may also take classes on how medical offices work and how to complete basic patient-care tasks. These practical skills are typically taught through on-campus labs and/or externships at healthcare offices.

Continuing Education Made Simple for Medical Assistants

The Ohio State Society of Medical Assistants notes that one professional certification stands out for successful MAs: the CMA. However, there is no standardized law in Ohio that prescribes minimum certification.

Ohio’s scope of practice for medical assistants is determined primarily by state law, summarized in this convenient one-pager addressing most state rules and regulations.

While Ohio law does not dictate continuing education requirements, you typically must complete continuing education credits for re-certification if you hold national certification. For example, to be re-certified as a CMA, you must receive 60 certification points within five years, including:

• 10 general points
• 10 clinical points
• 10 administrative points
• 30 points from any combined categories

Medical Assistant Salaries in Ohio

Best Online Medical Assistant Programs in Ohio