Can You Be A Travel Medical Assistant? Is it Right For You?

Yes, you can absolutely be a travel medical assistant! This exciting career path combines your medical assisting skills with the thrill of travel. But is it the right choice for you? This comprehensive guide explores the ins and outs of becoming a travel medical assistant, covering everything from requirements and salary to benefits and job opportunities.

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What is a Travel Medical Assistant?

A travel medical assistant is a certified medical assistant (CMA) or registered medical assistant (RMA) who takes on short-term assignments in various healthcare facilities across the country or even internationally. These assignments can range from a few weeks to several months, offering a dynamic and adventurous career compared to a traditional, stationary MA position.

Travel Medical Assistant Responsibilities

A travel medical assistant’s tasks mirror those of a traditional MA, but with added flexibility and variety. Common duties include:

• Taking patient vital signs (temperature, blood pressure, pulse, etc.).
• Recording patient medical history and symptoms.
• Assisting physicians with examinations and procedures.
• Administering injections and medications (as permitted by state law and facility policy).
• Drawing blood for laboratory tests (phlebotomy).
• Performing EKGs (electrocardiograms).
• Preparing examination rooms and sterilizing instruments.
• Providing patient education and support.
• Handling administrative tasks such as scheduling appointments and managing medical records.

Fathoming Travel Healthcare Careers

Travel healthcare careers are booming, driven by factors like:

• Staffing shortages: Many healthcare facilities, especially in rural or underserved areas, face ongoing staffing challenges. Travel professionals fill these gaps.
• Seasonal needs: Certain locations experience surges in patient volume during specific times of the year, requiring temporary staff.
• Project-based work: Healthcare facilities may need extra help during system upgrades, expansions, or other special projects.

Travel medical assisting offers a solution to these challenges, providing facilities with qualified personnel on a temporary basis and offering MAs a unique career experience.

Getting Started: Becoming a Travel Medical Assistant

The journey to becoming a travel medical assistant involves several key steps:

1. Complete a Medical Assisting Program: Enroll in and graduate from an accredited medical assisting program. This provides you with the foundational knowledge and skills required for the profession.
2. Obtain Certification: Pass the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) exam offered by the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA) or the Registered Medical Assistant (RMA) exam administered by American Medical Technologists (AMT). This credential demonstrates your competence and is often required by employers.
3. Gain Experience: Work as a medical assistant in a traditional setting for at least one to two years. This experience will build your confidence and skills, making you a more attractive candidate for travel assignments.
4. Partner with a Travel Agency: Research and select a reputable travel healthcare agency that specializes in medical assisting. These agencies act as your employer and connect you with assignments that match your skills and preferences.
5. Prepare Your Documents: Gather all necessary documents, including your resume, certifications, licenses (if required), immunization records, and references.
6. Complete Agency Requirements: Fulfill all agency requirements, such as background checks, drug screenings, and skills assessments.
7. Accept an Assignment: Once approved, review available assignments and choose one that aligns with your career goals and interests.

Travel Medical Assistant Requirements

Here’s a breakdown of typical requirements for travel medical assistant jobs:

• Education: High school diploma or GED. Completion of an accredited medical assisting program is strongly preferred.
• Certification: CMA or RMA certification is almost always required.
• Experience: At least one to two years of experience as a medical assistant.
• Skills: Proficient in vital signs measurement, phlebotomy, injections, EKG, medical terminology, and electronic health records (EHR) systems.
• Licenses: Some states may require specific licenses or permits for medical assistants. Your agency will help you navigate these requirements.
• Immunizations: Up-to-date immunizations are essential to protect yourself and your patients.
• CPR Certification: Current CPR certification is mandatory.

Travel Medical Assisting Certification

While a specific “travel medical assisting certification” doesn’t exist, holding a CMA or RMA certification is crucial. These certifications validate your core medical assisting skills and knowledge. Maintaining your certification requires continuing education to stay current with the latest medical practices and technologies.

Finding Travel MA Opportunities

Travel medical assistant jobs are readily available through travel healthcare agencies. These agencies partner with hospitals, clinics, physician offices, and other healthcare facilities to fill temporary staffing needs.

• Online Job Boards: Many travel healthcare agencies post their openings on popular job boards like Indeed, LinkedIn, and specialized medical job sites.
• Agency Websites: Visit the websites of reputable travel healthcare agencies to browse their current openings.
• Networking: Connect with other healthcare professionals and travel MAs on social media and at industry events.
• Conferences: Attend healthcare conferences to learn about travel opportunities and meet with agency recruiters.

Gauging the Benefits of Travel Medical Assisting

Travel medical assisting offers a host of advantages, including:

• Higher Pay: Travel MAs typically earn more than their counterparts in permanent positions.
• Travel Opportunities: Explore new cities, states, or even countries while working.
• Career Growth: Gain experience in diverse healthcare settings, expanding your skills and knowledge.
• Flexible Schedules: Control your work schedule and take time off between assignments.
• Housing and Travel Assistance: Agencies often provide or reimburse housing and travel expenses.
• Benefits Packages: Many agencies offer health insurance, dental insurance, vision insurance, and other benefits.
• Networking: Build a professional network with healthcare professionals across the country.
• Personal Growth: Develop adaptability, resilience, and independence.

Travel Medical Assistant Salary

The travel medical assistant salary can vary depending on factors such as experience, location, assignment length, and agency. However, travel MAs generally earn a higher hourly rate than those in permanent positions.

Typical Salary Range: \$35,000 to \$60,000 per year (or \$18 to \$30+ per hour)

Factors Affecting Salary:

• Experience: More experienced MAs command higher pay rates.
• Location: Assignments in high-demand areas or locations with a higher cost of living typically pay more.
• Specialty: Certain specialties, such as cardiology or dermatology, may offer higher pay.
• Agency: Different agencies offer varying pay and benefits packages.

Additional Compensation and Perks

In addition to base salary, travel MAs often receive:

• Housing Stipends: Reimbursement for housing expenses.
• Travel Reimbursement: Coverage of travel costs to and from assignments.
• Per Diem: Daily allowance for meals and incidentals.
• Completion Bonuses: Bonuses for completing assignments.

Examining Potential Drawbacks

While travel medical assisting offers many benefits, it’s important to acknowledge potential challenges:

• Constant Change: Adjusting to new environments, colleagues, and procedures regularly can be stressful for some.
• Unfamiliarity: You may encounter unfamiliar medical systems or practices.
• Distance from Home: Being away from family and friends can be difficult.
• Variable Income: Income can fluctuate between assignments.
• Licensing Requirements: Navigating licensing requirements in different states can be complex.

Is Travel Medical Assisting Right for You?

Travel medical assisting isn’t for everyone. Consider these questions to determine if it’s a good fit:

• Do you enjoy travel and new experiences?
• Are you adaptable and resilient?
• Are you comfortable working independently?
• Can you manage your finances effectively?
• Are you willing to learn new skills and procedures quickly?
• Do you have a strong support system?

If you answered “yes” to most of these questions, travel medical assisting could be a rewarding career choice.

Succeeding in Travel Assignments

To thrive as a travel medical assistant, focus on:

• Professionalism: Maintain a positive attitude, be punctual, and follow facility policies.
• Communication: Communicate clearly and effectively with patients and colleagues.
• Adaptability: Be flexible and willing to learn new things.
• Organization: Stay organized and manage your time effectively.
• Networking: Build relationships with healthcare professionals.
• Self-Care: Prioritize your physical and mental well-being.

Additional Considerations

• Taxes: Understand the tax implications of travel assignments, including deductions for housing and travel expenses. Consult with a tax professional for guidance.
• Insurance: Ensure you have adequate health insurance coverage. Your agency may offer health insurance, or you may need to obtain your own policy.
• Legal Issues: Be aware of the legal requirements for practicing medicine in different states.

FAQs About Travel Medical Assisting

What is the difference between a travel medical assistant and a permanent medical assistant?

A travel medical assistant works on short-term assignments in various locations, while a permanent medical assistant works in a single location on a long-term basis.

Can I choose where I want to work as a travel medical assistant?

Yes, you can typically specify your preferred locations to your travel agency. However, availability may vary depending on demand.

How long are travel medical assistant assignments?

Assignments can range from a few weeks to several months, with the average assignment lasting 13 weeks.

Do I need a special license to work as a travel medical assistant?

Some states may require specific licenses or permits for medical assistants. Your agency will help you determine the requirements for each assignment.

What are the benefits of using a travel agency?

Travel agencies handle the logistics of finding assignments, negotiating pay and benefits, arranging housing and travel, and providing support throughout your assignment.

How do I find a reputable travel healthcare agency?

Research agencies online, read reviews, and talk to other travel MAs to get recommendations. Look for agencies that are certified by the Joint Commission or the National Association of Travel Healthcare Organizations (NATHO).

Will the agency help me with housing?

Yes, most travel agencies will assist with housing either by providing housing or providing a housing stipend.

Final Thoughts

Travel medical assisting presents an exciting and rewarding career path for qualified and adventurous medical assistants. By fulfilling the necessary requirements, partnering with a reputable agency, and embracing the challenges and opportunities that come with travel, you can enjoy a fulfilling career while exploring new places and gaining valuable experience.