Medical Assistant

Medical Assistant qualifications to look for

A medical assistant is typically the first person a patient interacts with once they enter the clinical side of a doctor’s office. They complete administrative paperwork and physician support tasks like taking vital signs and documenting medical history. They work at hospitals, doctor offices, medical clinics, and other facilities. The scope of their work will depend on the needs required by the practice. 

Your top candidates will have an accredited medical assistant training and previous hands-on medical assistant experience.

 📌Don’t forget: Check local legislation as licensure requirements vary per location and job description. 

Every considered candidate should have proper CPR and first aid training.  

Keep an eye out for candidates who are:

• Organized
• Strong communicators
• Good with people 
• Efficient 
• Detail-oriented
• Compassionate
• Commitment to advocacy 
  

Top tip: Hire candidates willing to grow by making sure their personal career goals align with your company's mission.

Medical Assistant interview questions

• How has your previous work experience outside medicine helped prepare you for this position?
• Tell me what you know about our facility and the community we serve.
• What medical training do you have? Do you have specific experience working in a facility like this one? 
• How do you protect the rights and confidentiality of patients?
• How do you handle a difficult patient?
• What is the process if you don’t know how to answer a patient’s question?
• How would you document my medical history? Walk me through the process. 
• What kinds of medical procedures have you assisted with? Is there anything you’re not comfortable doing? 
• How do you assist physicians in overseeing medical equipment and supplies? What is your role in the process? 
• What information should you ask for when a pharmacist calls to request a medication refill for a patient?
• Do you have experience with phlebotomy?
• Do you have experience performing ECG?
• What are the steps to set up an IV fluid line?