How to Go From Military Medic to Civilian Medical Assistant

Military medic training translates well to a civilian medical assistant career.

Military medics are responsible for the care of wounded soldiers and the treatment of illnesses and injuries sustained during training. According to the U.S. Army Medical Department, Army medical specialists perform vital missions during deployments including the construction of medical infrastructure, disaster relief and combat operations support. Transitioning from military medical service to a civilian medical assistant career can be a means of applying military training to civilian life. According to the U.S.Bureau of Labor Statistics, medical assistant employment is expected to rise at an above average pace through 2018. Transitioning from a military medic to a civilian medical assistant can be rewarding and lucrative.

Things You'll Need

• DD-214 recording discharge from active duty
• Military education records

Instructions

1. Obtain a discharge from the U.S. armed forces. The DD-214 issued upon discharge contains important details about specialized training, deployment dates and periods of active and reserve service.

2. Collect all military education records as well as records of any professional certifications held. Awards and honors are also good to keep with these education records.

3. Compose a professional resume that highlights all relevant education and skills. This resume will be the first impression potential employers have of a prospective medical assistant, and must be logically organized as well as error-free.

4. Write a cover letter expanding on the education and skills listed on the professional resume, and make sure to explain any other professional experience and education relevant to a civilian medical career. The cover letter is a chance to detail accomplishments and skills that don't easily come across in a resume format.

5. Conduct a job search in order to find employers with open medical assistant positions. Online job boards, newspaper listings, word of mouth, television commercials and even walking into medical offices professionally dressed and with resume and cover letter in hand can all lead to interviews.

6. Practice polite verbal introductions and concise descriptions of relevant experience and training prior to each interview. Interviews are held by employers to assess candidates' communication skills and fit with the employer's needs.

7. Apply to positions and participate in interviews until an offer of employment is made. Once working as a civilian medical assistant, military honed skills such as punctuality and calmness under pressure will be highly regarded in the workplace.

Tips & Warnings

• Obtaining a certified medical assistant (CMA) qualification can enhance a candidate's chances of obtaining interviews and employment. CMA exams can be taken after completing a one- or two-year course of study in medical assisting.

• Speak to medical personnel currently serving in military units to obtain job leads and professional recommendations. Recommendations from a commanding officer or other senior military member can be helpful in securing employment.

• Be careful about highlighting military experience and training on a resume and in an interview if military records reflect major disciplinary problems or a less than honorable discharge. While many employers will not go into detail regarding military career specifics, some may rely heavily on these records when making a hiring decision.

References

• US Army Medical Department: About Army Medicine
• "Occupational Outlook Handbook"; Bureau of Labor Statistics; 2010-2011 Edition
• American Association of Medical Assistants: How to Become a CMA