How to Become a Medical Office Manager
Jobs in health care are some of the fastest growing careers in the United States, according to the Occupational Outlook Handbook. Employment for medical office managers, or health care administrators, is expected to grow 16 percent through 2018. Earnings for this profession vary by the size and specialty of the practice, and the education level and experience of the manager, but generally average between $48,000 and $138,000 per year. It is challenging to obtain a position in healthcare administration without a degree. Many years of experience may be required in lieu of education credentials.
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Instructions
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Becoming a Medical Office Manager
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Obtain a master's degree. Degrees in health services administration, health sciences, public administration, or business administration are standard. Again, education requirements will vary depending upon the size of the facility, the number of physicians on staff, and your history in this career. Smaller offices may require only a bachelor's degree in healthcare administration or may even hire based upon your experience in the field. The higher-paying jobs will, of course, go to the person with an advanced degree.
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Get your foot in the door if you don't have a degree by applying for a position as an assistant administrator, or in the accounting department of a physician's office or larger practice. The MGMA (Medical Group Management Association) offers career guidance and courses to help you get started. Go to mgma.com for more information.
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Prepare for the position by composing a resume that highlights any staffing, supervisory, scheduling, budgeting and organizational skills you may have. If you have been employed in middle management in any industry, the skills you have garnered will translate well into the position of medical office manager.
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