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Health Coach: An Ideal Role for Credentialed Medical Assistants

  • Writer: Margaret
    Margaret
  • Sep 29
  • 4 min read

Updated: Sep 29

Media by Wix
Media by Wix

Many individuals outside the healthcare sector are familiar with Doctors, Nurses, and Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs), but not with Medical Assistants. Having been part of this group of allied health professionals for a decade, I can proudly say they are among the most dedicated workers in the industry, frequently found in healthcare settings like physician offices, urgent care clinics, hospitals, and specialty clinics.


Medical Assistants take on various responsibilities and roles, and in the current healthcare system, one significant role they have embraced is that of a Health Coach. I will explain why this position is perfectly suited for them. However, before doing so, let's delve into more details about these healthcare professionals, their educational requirements, relevant statistics, and the misconceptions surrounding Medical Assistants.


Medical Assistants: Education, Certification & Career Outlook


Education Requirements

  • Most Medical Assistants complete a postsecondary nondegree program, typically lasting 9–12 months. (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2025).

  • These programs are offered at community colleges, private colleges, vocational schools, and technical institutes.

  • Coursework includes anatomy, physiology, medical terminology, medical law & ethics, pharmacology, hands on training (clinical skills) etc.


Some MAs enter the field with only a high school diploma and receive on-the-job training, though post-secondary education is increasingly preferred.

Certification Pathways

While certification is not always required, it significantly boosts employability and earning potential according to an article by the American Association of Medical Assistants.


Most recognized credentials:

CMA (AAMA) – Certified Medical Assistant by the American Association of Medical Assistants. Individuals must recertify every five years to maintain their certification status.


RMA (AMT) – Registered Medical Assistant by American Medical Technologists. Recertification must be completed every three years.


NCMA – National Certified Medical Assistant by the National Center for Competency Testing. Recertification must be completed every 5 years.


Recent Career Statistics

As of 2024, the median annual wage for Medical Assistants was $44,200, with over 811,000 employed nationwide and a projected 12% growth rate through 2034—much faster than average (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2025).



Common Misconceptions

Despite their vital role, Medical Assistants are often misunderstood.


  1. "They only do clerical work." -Many people believe they only handle clerical duties, but they are skilled in both administrative and clinical tasks. This includes taking vital signs, assisting with minor procedures and exams, collecting and preparing lab specimens, administering injections, managing patient records, and more.

    Please note: Medical Assistants (MAs) are permitted to administer injections in many U.S. states, but the scope of this practice depends on state-specific laws, training requirements, and supervision protocols.


  2. “They’re not certified professionals.” - Many medical assistants engage in thorough certification processes and ongoing education, frequently specializing in fields such as cardiology, dermatology, or pediatrics.


  3. “Medical Assistants are just another type of nurse.” - While both roles are vital in patient care, nurses and medical assistants differ in training and scope. LPNs and RNs complete longer education programs, hold state licenses, and have broader clinical authority. In contrast, MAs usually complete shorter training programs and perform both clinical and administrative duties under the supervision of a physician. Though not licensed for independent decisions, they play a key role in care delivery and are increasingly trusted in health coaching and chronic care support.


  4. “They have limited career growth.”- With additional training or advanced education, depending on the role, Medical Assistants often transition into positions like Clinic Managers, Patient Navigators, Medical Records Specialist, Nurses, and Health Coaches, which is the main topic of this post. I have encountered Medical Assistants who advanced to become Physician Assistants and Nurse Practitioners. Medical Assistants are also playing a growing role in telehealth and chronic care management.

I’ve recently decided to go back to school to advance my career and become a licensed healthcare professional. I’m keeping the specific program under wraps for now. Once I’ve completed it, I’ll share an update here. 😁
Media by Wix
Media by Wix

Health Coach: A Perfect Fit for Medical Assistants

According to a 2024 article by the National Healthcareer Association, medical assistants are effective coaches because they often act as the first and last point of clinical contact during patient visits. They are uniquely positioned to serve as effective health coaches due to their dual training in clinical procedures and patient communication.


With education that blends anatomy, physiology, and behavioral health, MAs are equipped to support patients in managing chronic conditions, improving lifestyle habits, and navigating care plans. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (2025), MAs are increasingly involved in preventive care and patient education, especially in outpatient settings where chronic disease management is critical. Their expertise in electronic health records (EHR) encompasses a comprehensive understanding of the systems used to collect, store, and manage patient information digitally. This proficiency allows them to efficiently navigate and utilize EHRs to enhance patient care, streamline workflows, and ensure that pertinent data is readily accessible to healthcare providers.


Additionally, the growth of value-based care and integrated health models has increased the need for professionals who can lead patients toward lasting wellness. Credentialed Medical Assistants (MAs), particularly those certified by organizations such as the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA), are reliable team members in primary care, endocrinology, and cardiology practices; areas where lifestyle coaching is crucial. By 2024, over 70,000 Certified Medical Assistants (CMAs) were actively certified, with many seeking further training in health coaching and chronic care support (AAMA, 2024). Their skills in building rapport, monitoring progress, and reinforcing physician advice make them compassionate, cost-effective partners in enhancing patient outcomes and decreasing hospital readmissions.



As clinical roles expand to meet modern health demands, Medical Assistants are stepping into the role of Health Coach with confidence and credibility. Their unique blend of clinical expertise, patient-centered communication, and certification-backed training positions them as trusted allies in promoting wellness, managing chronic conditions, and supporting behavior change. As healthcare systems prioritize prevention and personalized care, credentialed MAs are not only meeting the moment, but they’re also redefining it. Their presence as Health Coaches reflects a broader shift toward integrated, compassionate care that empowers patients to take ownership of their health journey.


Thanks for reading!


Margaret (MKO)


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