If a career as a medical assistant (MA) in Missouri 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 Missouri;
- Find an accredited medical assisting program
- Fulfill certification and licensing requirements
- How much does a MA make in Missouri
- Salary and employment data by metro area
- Explore related careers in Missouri
If you wish to pursue a career as a MA in Missouri 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 Missouri
| College | Metro Area | Find Out More | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. | East Central College | Union | Request Information |
| 2. | Midwest Technical Institute | Springfield | Request Information |
| 3. | National American University | Kansas City | Request Information |
| 4. | National American University | Independence | Request Information |
Listed above are the top accredited MA programs in Missouri.
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 Missouri
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 Missouri but it will certainly enhance a candidates employment and career prospects.
Medical Assistant Salary in Missouri
| Average Salary | $31,370 |
| Hourly Wage | $15.08 |
| Top 10% of Earners | $39,880 |
| Bottom 10% of Earners | $22,220 |
| #'s Employed | 9,780 |
According to the most recent Bureau for Labor Statistics data there are currently 9,780 people employed as MAs in Missouri with an average salary of $31,370.
This equates to $15.08 per hour and is 4.5% below the national average.
The top 10% of earners for the career in Missouri have an annual income of $39,880 whilst the bottom 10% earned $22,220.
Salary and Employment Data for main cities in Missouri
| Area | Salary | Hourly Wage | # Employed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cape Girardeau | $28,900 | $13.89 | 190 |
| Columbia | $31,660 | $15.22 | 250 |
| Jefferson City | $29,660 | $14.26 | 230 |
| Joplin | $27,160 | $13.06 | 230 |
| Kansas City | $33,760 | $16.23 | 3,760 |
| Springfield | $26,360 | $12.67 | 730 |
| St. Joseph | $28,660 | $13.78 | 140 |
| St. Louis | $33,040 | $15.88 | 5,020 |
Related Healthcare Careers in Missouri
Medical assistants in Missouri earn 23.7% more than nursing assistants there and 9.1% less than emergency medical technicians and paramedics.
View the table below for more detailed career comparisons.
| Salary | # Employed | |
|---|---|---|
| Medical Assistant | $31,370 | 9,780 |
| Nursing Assistant | $25,360 | 40,190 |
| EMT | $34,500 | 7,010 |
| Surgical Tech | $42,720 | 1,950 |
| Physician Assistant | $91,480 | 990 |
| Dental Assistant | $36,900 | 5,530 |
| Home Health Aide | $22,660 | 15110 |