If a career as a medical assistant (MA) in South Dakota strongly appeals to you then you will be happy to know that the demand for MA’s has been steadily on the increase over the last decade and is projected to grow by a further 29% over the coming years. In fact it is predicted that an additional 183,900 jobs will be created in the sector between 2016 and 2024.
This is much faster than average when compared with other roles in the healthcare industry.
How to become a Medical Assistant in South Dakota;
- Find an accredited medical assisting program
- Fulfill certification and licensing requirements
- How much does a MA make in South Dakota
- Salary and employment data by metro area
- Explore related careers in South Dakota
If you wish to pursue a career as a MA in South Dakota you will need to first complete a high school diploma. In order to become fully certified (CMA) you will also need to have graduated from an accredited program.
Certification is not essential but it is generally preferred by employers.
Accredited Medical Assistant Programs in South Dakota
| College | Metro Area | Find Out More |
|---|---|---|
| Lake Area Technical Institute | Watertown | Request Information |
| Mitchell Technical Institute | Mitchell | Request Information |
| National American University | Sioux Falls | Request Information |
| Presentation College | Aberdeen | Request Information |
Listed above are the top accredited MA programs in South Dakota.
Accreditation may be granted either by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) or the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES).
Medical Assistant Certification South Dakota
Medical assistant certification (CMA) is awarded by the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA). Certification is granted following the successful completion of certification exams.
Only graduates of accredited MA programs are eligible to apply to take the certification exams. Applicants are also typically required to complete an unpaid internship as part of the certification process.
Certification is not essential in South Dakota but it will certainly enhance a candidates employment and career prospects.
Medical Assistant Salary in South Dakota
| Average Salary | $29,890 |
| Hourly Wage | $14.37 |
| Top 10% of Earners | $37,170 |
| Bottom 10% of Earners | $24,970 |
| #'s Employed | 1,010 |
According to the most recent Bureau for Labor Statistics data there are currently 1,010 people employed as MAs in South Dakota with an average salary of $29,890.
This equates to $14.37 per hour and is 9% below the national average.
The top 10% of earners for the career in South Dakota have an annual income of $37,170 whilst the bottom 10% earned $24,970.
Salary and Employment Data for main cities in South Dakota
| Area | Salary | Hourly Wage | # Employed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rapid City | $29,250 | $14.06 | 210 |
| Sioux Falls | $30,870 | $14.84 | 390 |
Related Healthcare Careers in South Dakota
Medical assistants in South Dakota earn 19.1% more than nursing assistants there and slightly less than emergency medical technicians and paramedics.
View the table below for more detailed career comparisons.
| Salary | # Employed | |
|---|---|---|
| Medical Assistant | $29,890 | 1,010 |
| Nursing Assistant | $25,090 | 29,600 |
| EMT | $30,080 | 1,000 |
| Surgical Tech | $39,800 | 540 |
| Dental Assistant | $38,410 | 930 |
| Physician Assistant | $99,570 | 590 |
| Home Health Aide | $27,750 | 660 |