Today is Medical Assistants Recognition Day, celebrated on the third Wednesday of October, when providers, patients and the public express their gratitude for the essential work these healthcare professionals perform. Medical Assistants Recognition Day is part of the Medical Assistants Recognition Week series of events promoted by the American Association of Medical Assistants.
Medical assistants are often the backbone of doctors’ offices. Some occupy the front desk and check patients in when they arrive for an appointment. Others show patients to the exam room, take histories, prepare them for the doctor’s exam, and even assist during the exam. Still other assistants handle insurance forms and referrals or billing.
This is a fast-growing career across the nation, and especially in Austin, where healthcare is one of the three key economic sectors of our region. In 2014, there were 2,410 people working in this occupation in Austin/Travis County. By 2024, that number will grow to 3,250.
This positive outlook for growth reflects the important role medical assistants play in healthcare, and why a day like Medical Assistants Recognition Day is so important. How will you celebrate today? Tell us in a comment below!