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Nature of Work—Medical secretaries perform duties similar to those of an administrative assistant but in a medical office or in a health-related industry such as insurance. Familiarity with medical terminology and filing procedures is often required. This position calls for frequent interaction with vendors and patients. Confidentiality is required. Related Job Titles—Medical secretary, medical office assistant, medical administrative assistant. Employment Outlook—According to ccbenefits.com, Business and Financial Operations is among the occupation groups projected for the largest growth in Illinois and Cook County through the year 2018. In addition to those resulting from growth, numerous job openings will result from the need to replace workers who transfer to other occupations or leave this very large occupation for other reasons each year. Opportunities should be best for applicants with extensive knowledge of software applications, particularly experienced secretaries and administrative assistants. Projected employment of secretaries and administrative assistants varies by occupational specialty. The BLS also reports employment growth in the health care and social assistance and legal services industries should lead to average growth for medical and legal secretaries. Employment of executive secretaries and administrative assistants is projected to grow on average for all occupations. Growing industries such as administrative and support services; health care and social assistance; educational services (private); and professional, scientific, and technical services will continue to generate most new job opportunities. A decline in employment is expected for secretaries, except legal, medical, or executive; they account for about 47 percent of all secretaries and administrative assistants. Earnings—According to the most recent BLS report, median annual earnings of medical secretaries were $29,680 in May 2008. The middle 50 percent earned between $24,530 and $36,090. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $20,870, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $42,660. Salaries vary a great deal, however, reflecting differences in skill, experience, and level of responsibility. Certification in this field usually is rewarded by a higher salary. Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics 2010-2011 For job and internship listings and job search assistance, contact the Job Resource Center, Student Services Center, S202, at (708) 974-5737. www.morainevalley.edu/jrc. |
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Moraine
Valley Community College's Medical Secretary Certificate Program prepares
students for administrative assistant positions in medical offices or in
health-related industries. Students gain knowledge of administrative and
receptionist duties, medical transcription, and data entry. Students will be
prepared to produce reports, schedule appointments, answer telephones, and
interact with vendors and patients. Familiarity with medical terminology, filing
procedures, and computer applications is included.
