medical assistant skills resume samples

Top 20 Medical Assistant Skills for Resume – How to Highlight, Examples

• Resume Format
• October 26, 2024
• Resume Skills

Medical Assistant Skills for Resume : In the competitive field of healthcare, a medical assistant’s resume must stand out to capture the attention of potential employers. Highlighting the right skills is crucial, as these professionals play a vital role in ensuring the smooth operation of medical facilities. From administrative tasks to patient care, the skills you showcase can make a significant difference in your job prospects.

This article explores the top 20 medical assistant skills that can elevate your resume and demonstrate your value to hiring managers. By understanding which abilities are most sought after in the industry, you can tailor your application to meet the specific needs of employers.

In addition to listing these essential skills, we provide practical examples of how to effectively highlight them in your resume. With the right approach, you can position yourself as a standout candidate, ready to contribute to a thriving healthcare team.

What are Medical Assistant Skills

Medical assistant skills encompass a blend of clinical and administrative abilities. Key skills include patient care, vital sign monitoring, medical record management, appointment scheduling, and effective communication. Proficiency in medical software and knowledge of healthcare regulations are essential, ensuring smooth operations and high-quality patient support in diverse healthcare settings.

Why Medical Assistant Skills Important

Medical assistants play a crucial role in the healthcare system, bridging the gap between patients and providers. Their diverse skill set ensures that medical facilities operate smoothly and efficiently, directly impacting patient care and satisfaction. Here are some key reasons why medical assistant skills are essential:

• Patient Interaction : Medical assistants are often the first point of contact for patients. Their ability to communicate effectively helps create a welcoming environment, easing patient anxiety and fostering trust.
• Clinical Proficiency : Skills in taking vital signs, preparing patients for examinations, and assisting with procedures are vital for ensuring accurate diagnoses and effective treatment.
• Administrative Expertise : Proficient in managing patient records, scheduling appointments, and handling billing, medical assistants help maintain the organization and efficiency of healthcare operations.
• Regulatory Compliance : Knowledge of healthcare regulations and protocols ensures that medical assistants contribute to a safe and compliant environment, protecting both patients and the facility.
• Team Collaboration : Strong interpersonal skills enable medical assistants to work seamlessly with physicians, nurses, and other healthcare professionals, enhancing teamwork and improving patient outcomes.
• Adaptability : The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving. Medical assistants who can quickly adapt to new technologies and procedures are invaluable in maintaining high standards of care.

In summary, the skills of medical assistants are not just beneficial; they are essential for delivering quality healthcare, ensuring patient safety, and supporting the overall effectiveness of medical practices.

List of 20 Medical Assistant Skills for Resume

• Patient Care
• Vital Signs Monitoring
• Medical Terminology
• Electronic Health Records (EHR)
• Medication Administration
• Clinical Procedures
• Infection Control
• Scheduling Appointments
• Medical Billing and Coding
• Patient Communication
• Laboratory Procedures
• First Aid and CPR
• Time Management
• Attention to Detail
• Team Collaboration
• HIPAA Compliance
• Medical Office Management
• Customer Service Skills

Top Required Medical Assistant Skills for Resume

• Clinical Skills Proficient in performing clinical tasks such as taking vital signs, administering injections, and assisting with examinations. This expertise ensures patient safety and comfort while supporting healthcare providers in delivering effective care.
• Administrative Skills Skilled in managing administrative tasks, including scheduling appointments, maintaining patient records, and handling billing processes. This organization enhances office efficiency and ensures seamless patient flow in a medical setting.
• Communication Skills Excellent verbal and written communication abilities facilitate clear interactions with patients and healthcare professionals. This skill fosters a supportive environment, ensuring patients understand their care and feel valued.
• Patient Care Dedicated to providing compassionate patient care, addressing concerns, and ensuring comfort during visits. This commitment builds trust and encourages patients to engage actively in their healthcare journey.
• Medical Terminology Strong understanding of medical terminology allows for accurate documentation and effective communication within the healthcare team. This knowledge minimizes errors and enhances the quality of patient care.
• Phlebotomy Skills Experienced in drawing blood and performing laboratory tests with precision. This skill is crucial for accurate diagnostics and helps streamline the patient testing process.
• Infection Control Knowledgeable in infection control protocols to maintain a safe environment for patients and staff. This skill is vital in preventing the spread of infections and ensuring compliance with health regulations.
• Time Management Effective time management skills enable prioritization of tasks in a fast-paced environment. This ability ensures timely patient care and optimizes workflow in busy medical offices.
• Electronic Health Records (EHR) Proficient in using EHR systems for documenting patient information and managing healthcare data. This expertise enhances data accuracy and accessibility, improving overall patient care.
• Customer Service Strong customer service skills create a welcoming atmosphere for patients. This ability to address inquiries and resolve issues fosters positive relationships and enhances patient satisfaction.
• Basic Life Support (BLS) Certified in BLS, enabling quick and effective response to medical emergencies. This skill is essential for ensuring patient safety and providing immediate care when needed.
• Medical Coding Knowledgeable in medical coding practices for accurate billing and insurance claims processing. This skill ensures compliance with regulations and maximizes revenue for healthcare facilities.
• Team Collaboration Ability to work collaboratively with healthcare teams to provide comprehensive patient care. This teamwork enhances communication, improves outcomes, and fosters a supportive workplace culture.
• Attention to Detail Strong attention to detail ensures accuracy in patient records, medication administration, and clinical procedures. This skill minimizes errors and enhances the quality of care provided.
• Problem-Solving Skills Effective problem-solving abilities enable quick identification of issues and implementation of solutions. This skill is vital in addressing patient concerns and improving operational efficiency.
• Patient Education Skilled in educating patients about their health conditions, treatment plans, and preventive care. This ability empowers patients to make informed decisions and promotes better health outcomes.
• Confidentiality Thorough understanding of HIPAA regulations ensures patient confidentiality is maintained at all times. This commitment builds trust and protects sensitive patient information.
• Multitasking Ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously without compromising quality. This skill is essential in fast-paced medical environments where efficiency and accuracy are critical.
• Basic Medical Procedures Familiarity with basic medical procedures such as wound care and administering medications. This knowledge supports healthcare providers and enhances patient care delivery.
• Adaptability Flexible and adaptable to changing situations and patient needs. This skill is crucial in dynamic healthcare environments, ensuring continuous, high-quality patient care.

How to Highlight Medical Assistant Skills on Resume

Highlighting Medical Assistant Skills on your resume is crucial for standing out in a competitive job market. A well-crafted resume can showcase your qualifications and make a lasting impression on potential employers. Here are effective ways to emphasize your Medical Assistant Skills:

• Tailor Your Resume : Customize your resume for each job application by aligning your Medical Assistant Skills with the specific requirements listed in the job description.
• Use Action Verbs : Start bullet points with strong action verbs to convey your Medical Assistant Skills effectively. Words like “assisted,” “managed,” and “coordinated” can demonstrate your proactive approach.
• Quantify Achievements : Whenever possible, include numbers to highlight your accomplishments. For example, “Managed patient records for over 200 clients” showcases your organizational skills.
• Include Relevant Certifications : List any certifications related to Medical Assistant Skills, such as CPR, First Aid, or specific medical software proficiency. This adds credibility to your expertise.
• Highlight Soft Skills : Don’t forget to mention soft skills that complement your Medical Assistant Skills. Communication, empathy, and teamwork are vital in a healthcare setting.
• Create a Skills Section : Dedicate a section of your resume to explicitly list your Medical Assistant Skills. Use bullet points for clarity and ensure they align with the job requirements.
• Showcase Clinical Experience : Detail your hands-on experience in clinical settings. Mention specific tasks performed, such as taking vital signs or assisting with examinations, to illustrate your Medical Assistant Skills.
• Include Continuing Education : If you have pursued additional training or courses, include these to demonstrate your commitment to enhancing your Medical Assistant Skills.

By effectively showcasing your Medical Assistant Skills, you can create a compelling resume that captures the attention of hiring managers and increases your chances of landing an interview.

Sample Medical Assistant Skills for Resume

[your name].

[Your Address] [City, State, Zip] [Your Phone Number] [Your Email Address] [LinkedIn Profile URL]

Compassionate and detail-oriented Medical Assistant with over [X years] of experience in clinical and administrative settings. Proficient in patient care, medical office procedures, and electronic health record management. Seeking to leverage skills in a dynamic healthcare environment to enhance patient experiences and support medical staff.

• Clinical Skills : Vital signs monitoring, phlebotomy, EKG administration, medication administration, wound care, and patient education.
• Administrative Skills : Appointment scheduling, medical billing and coding, insurance verification, and patient record management.
• Technical Proficiency : Proficient in Electronic Health Records (EHR) systems, Microsoft Office Suite, and medical software applications.
• Communication : Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to interact effectively with patients, families, and healthcare professionals.
• Team Collaboration : Experience working in multidisciplinary teams to provide comprehensive patient care.
• Time Management : Ability to prioritize tasks and manage time efficiently in fast-paced environments.
• Patient Care : Empathetic approach to patient care, ensuring comfort and understanding during medical procedures.

[Your Degree] [Your School Name], [City, State] [Month, Year] – [Month, Year]

Certifications

• Certified Medical Assistant (CMA)
• Basic Life Support (BLS) Certification
• [Any other relevant certifications]

Professional Experience

Medical Assistant [Your Previous Employer], [City, State] [Month, Year] – [Month, Year]

• Assisted healthcare providers with patient examinations and procedures, ensuring a high standard of care.
• Managed patient intake processes, including medical history documentation and vital sign assessments.
• Coordinated appointments and maintained accurate patient records in EHR systems.
• Educated patients on treatment plans, medications, and follow-up care instructions.

Medical Office Assistant [Your Previous Employer], [City, State] [Month, Year] – [Month, Year]

• Handled front desk responsibilities, including answering phones, greeting patients, and managing scheduling.
• Processed insurance claims and verified patient insurance coverage to ensure smooth billing operations.
• Maintained inventory of medical supplies and ordered as necessary to support clinical operations.

Available upon request.

How to Develop Medical Assistant Skills for Resume

Developing Medical Assistant skills is essential for creating a standout resume that attracts potential employers. Here are effective ways to enhance your skill set:

• Enroll in a Training Program : Join accredited medical assistant programs to gain foundational knowledge and hands-on experience.
• Obtain Certifications : Pursue certifications such as Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) or Registered Medical Assistant (RMA) to validate your expertise and commitment to the field.
• Gain Practical Experience : Seek internships or volunteer opportunities in healthcare settings to apply your skills in real-world scenarios.
• Stay Updated on Medical Technology : Familiarize yourself with the latest medical software and equipment to enhance your technical skills.
• Develop Communication Skills : Practice effective communication with patients and healthcare professionals to improve your interpersonal skills.
• Learn Medical Terminology : Mastering medical terminology is crucial for accurate documentation and communication in a clinical environment.
• Focus on Patient Care : Emphasize your ability to provide compassionate care, which is vital in building trust with patients.

By actively seeking opportunities to develop Medical Assistant skills, you will create a compelling resume that showcases your qualifications and makes you a desirable candidate in the healthcare industry.

Also Read : How to Add Skills Section in Resume

FAQs about Medical Assistant Skills

What are essential medical assistant skills to include on a resume.

Essential Medical Assistant Skills to highlight on your resume include clinical skills like taking vital signs, administering injections, and assisting with examinations. Additionally, emphasize administrative skills such as scheduling appointments, managing patient records, and proficiency in medical software. Strong communication and interpersonal skills are also crucial for patient interaction.

How can I demonstrate my Medical Assistant Skills on my resume?

To effectively demonstrate your Medical Assistant Skills on your resume, use specific examples from your experience. Include quantifiable achievements, such as the number of patients assisted or improvements in office efficiency. Tailor your skills section to match the job description, showcasing relevant certifications and training to enhance your qualifications.

Why are Medical Assistant Skills important for job applications?

Medical Assistant Skills are vital for job applications as they showcase your ability to perform essential tasks in a healthcare setting. Employers seek candidates who can efficiently manage both clinical and administrative responsibilities. Highlighting these skills on your resume increases your chances of standing out and securing an interview.

How do I improve my Medical Assistant Skills for my resume?

To improve your Medical Assistant Skills for your resume, consider pursuing additional certifications or specialized training in areas like phlebotomy or EHR management. Participating in workshops, internships, or volunteer opportunities can also enhance your practical experience. Continuous learning demonstrates your commitment to professional growth and enhances your employability.

What soft Medical Assistant Skills should I highlight on my resume?

Soft Medical Assistant Skills are crucial for effective patient care and teamwork. Highlight skills such as empathy, active listening, and strong communication abilities. Problem-solving and time management are also essential, as they enable you to handle various tasks efficiently. These interpersonal skills can significantly impact patient satisfaction and workplace dynamics.

Resume Tips

Choose the right format.

Select a resume format that best showcases your skills and experience. Common formats include chronological, functional, and combination resumes.

Tailor Your Resume

Customize your resume for each job application by highlighting relevant skills and experiences that match the job description.

Focus on Key Sections

Include essential sections such as contact information, professional summary or objective, work experience, education, skills, and relevant certifications.

Use Clear and Concise Language

Be concise and use action verbs to describe your accomplishments and responsibilities in each job role.

Quantify Achievements

Whenever possible, quantify your achievements with numbers or percentages to demonstrate your impact in previous roles.

Highlight Transferable Skills

Emphasize transferable skills that are relevant to the job you're applying for, such as communication, problem-solving, and leadership skills.

Prioritize Readability

Ensure your resume is easy to read by using a clean and professional font, adequate white space, and bullet points for listing information.

Proofread Carefully

Avoid spelling and grammar errors by proofreading your resume multiple times or asking a trusted friend or colleague to review it.

Keep it Updated

Regularly update your resume with new experiences, skills, and accomplishments to reflect your most current qualifications.

Seek Feedback

Consider seeking feedback from career advisors, mentors, or professionals in your industry to improve your resume further.

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11 Medical Assistant Resume Samples for 2024

Medical Assistant Resume

• Medical Assistant Resumes by Experience
• Medical Assistant Resumes by Role
• Writing Your Medical Assistant Resume

Medical assistant jobs are in high demand. The field is expected to grow by 24 percent through 2024, much higher than the average for most other jobs.

You know your way around EMR systems and how to deliver an excellent experience to patients. You shouldn’t also need to be an expert at  writing a resume . It can be challenging to discuss your experience and qualifications correctly on your resume.

Our medical assistant resume examples have  helped medical assistants land jobs at great hospitals and physician’s offices around the country , so they’re the perfect place for you to get started.

or download as PDF

Why this resume works

• If you include a  resume objective,  customize it for each job you apply to by matching the keywords mentioned in the job.
• Many different organizations grant medical assistant certifications. Standards vary by hospital and state, so be clear and include the body that certified you.
• Similarly, CPR and First Aid certifications generally last for two years. Remember to include the year you were last certified, or a potential employer might question if your certification is current.

Medical Assistant Student Resume

• Projects that leveraged your competency with medical software, such as a public health fair, can be just as valuable on your medical assistant student resume as a full-time healthcare position.

Medical Assistant Externship Resume

• Can you recount presenting a relevant project at college? Or maybe you attended a seminar like “TechNurse Evolution” in Mia’s piece? Be sure to bring these moments to life in your resume and then you can fill in the details in your medical assistant cover letter . You’ll need this extra flair besides your appetite for knowledge to learn to make a lasting impression on the hiring manager.

Entry-Level Medical Assistant Resume

• Landing your first job as a certified medical assistant can seem daunting. However, a huge plus is a commonly accepted certification process. So once you get your certification, the process becomes far more straightforward. 
• Your entry-level medical assistant resume could be solid if you had related experience in medicine before earning your certification. If you lack experience, contact medical offices in your area to see if they need organizational help.
• When outlining your resume , it’s perfectly okay to include previous work experience outside of medicine. This can help show that you’re disciplined and organized.

Experienced Medical Assistant Resume

• Phlebotomy is drawing blood (more commonly known as a blood draw). It requires a separate certification, but it’s not uncommon for experienced medical assistants to specialize as it increases responsibilities on the job and can lead to an increase in pay. 
• You can include a wide range of skills, from interpersonal (like interviewing patients) to technical (like updating patient records). Remember to highlight the breadth of your expertise whenever possible on your experienced medical assistant resume .

Lead Medical Assistant Resume

• Is Asana listed as a crucial tool? Show how you used it previously for team collaboration. Do they dictate proficiency in the SurgiCare Inventory? Detail how you used the platform to streamline medical supplies’ storage, tracking, and usage.

Pediatric Medical Assistant Resume

• First things first, examine the job ad carefully and single out relevant keywords. Got them? Then, sprinkle them around your resume. In addition, opt for a layout that the ATS can easily read—this means avoiding any graphics or images that could potentially throw a wrench in your job-hunting efforts right from the start

Clinical Medical Assistant Resume Example

• Listen, your updated phone number and email are the bare minimum. Plus, you bag bonus points with a professional email address like [email protected] . So, perhaps save wacky stuff that might raise eyebrows or snag a laugh (think “cat_lover@…com” or love_skeptic@…com”) for the group chats with friends, not your clinical medical assistant resume.

Dermatology Medical Assistant Resume

• Include examples of your work with tools such as DermLite on your dermatology medical assistant resume to emphasize your field-specific skill set.

Medical Administrative Assistant Resume Example

• If you have  resume-related hobbies and interests  that stand out, include them when you’re a bit light on relevant work experience.
• When discussing your work experience, it helps to start each bullet point with a strong action verb.  Format your resume so that it’s easier to scan (the average recruiter spends less than 24 seconds reviewing a resume), and make it clear that you’ve had an impact in previous roles.

Certified Medical Assistant Resume

• As you gain more experience as a medical assistant, you should show more leadership and impact. You can beef up your resume by touching upon organizational systems (such as inventory and patient scheduling) that save time and reduce the chances of making mistakes.
• Colleges around the country offer specialized programs to train you to become a medical assistant. They’re generally two semesters long, can be part-time, and ultimately end with a certification. If you attended one of these programs, then absolutely mention it.

Related resume guides

• Medical Assistant
• Medical Receptionist

Resume Format for a Medical Assistant

Aside from the actual content of your resume, the formatting you use determines whether a hiring manager will seriously consider your medical assistant resume. When formatted correctly, your resume will be easy to read, have a logical flow, and be complete.

If your resume lacks these formatting qualities, there’s a likelihood that hiring managers won’t take your resume seriously; if it makes their job more difficult, they may toss your application. To properly format your resume, you’ll want to pay special attention to the following: 

Resume format options

• Contact info and header 

ATS and readability 

You have a few  resume formats  to choose from, with these being the most popular in 2024: 

• Reverse-chronological:  This type of format is uniquely positioned to highlight your most recent job experience first, highlighting career growth and giving a competitive advantage when numerous applicants compete with you for the same position. 
• Functional:  This resume format highlights skills over work experience. You might choose this format if you have large gaps in your work experience, but be cautious because many recruiters may find this format confusing or less forthcoming than other popular formatting options. 
• Combination/hybrid:  The combination/hybrid format blends both reverse-chronological and functional formatting by skills and work experience with equal weight. It’s a popular choice for industry experts with many years of experience. 

Each type of format can be considered for your resume, but reverse-chronological formatting is what we tend to recommend for any medical assistant resume.

Since recruiters in the medical industry are routinely inundated with 100+ resumes per job posting, they prefer resume formats that lend themselves to quick skimming. A reverse-chronological resume does that while highlighting your most recent job title. 

Contact info and header

When a recruiter determines that they want to reach out for an interview, make sure they know how to reach you. Using a large font, position your name on the left side or top center of your resume, and use a smaller font to include the medical assistant job title you seek. Have your contact info available, too.

Your resume header should consist of:

• Job title you’re seeking 
• Phone number 
• City/State (optional)
• Professional links (such as LinkedIn or other professional sites) (optional) 

Your header is also a good place to add a (professional) pop of color. Take a look at these  resume examples  and the visual sample below to get inspiration for a wide variety of header styles!

We don’t want to sound dramatic, but we can’t overemphasize how important it is that your medical assistant resume is ATS-friendly for every job you apply to in 2024. 

What is ATS?  Simply put, Applicant Tracking System software (ATS) became an integral part of the recruitment process after the explosion of the internet led to sharp increases in online job applicants.

ATS will scan your resume, searching for keywords by recognizing your resume formatting. For this reason, it’s critical that your medical assistant resume matches ATS standards, lest your application gets thrown out without ever being reviewed.

Beat the ATS with these tips:

• Margins : Margins on all sides of your resume should be between 0.5-1.0 inch.
• Fonts:  Stick with basics like Arial, Calibri, Cambria, or Times New Roman.
• Font sizes:  Your name should be the largest font size (around 24-point), with your title slightly smaller (around 20-point). The rest of your resume (including your contact information) should remain at the standard font size of 12-point. 
• Header names:  Headers throughout your text should stand out in some way. Consider using bold text or contrasting colors. 
• Skills:  Read the job posting. Highlight skills that are particularly applicable for every medical assistant job to which you’re applying. 
• Logical order:  As mentioned, we recommend using reverse-chronological order, with your most recent job experience at the top of the page. ATS prefers it, and it’s easier to read. 
• One page:  If your resume is over a page, it’ll look strange, and recruiters will wonder if you lack enough experience.

Feeling overwhelmed? Check out our  resume builder  to ensure your formatting is done correctly. 

Resume Writing for a Medical Assistant

Job hunting is stress-inducing for most people, and many think of resume and cover letter writing as the peak of their anxiety.

Thankfully,  writing an effective resume  doesn’t have to be overwhelming. The key is to take it one section at a time. Using our resume builder, you can avoid all the frustration of writing and re-writing improperly formatted sections. Save yourself the time that could be spent on the job search. Let’s address the essentials:

What’s the objective/summary all about? 

Work experience, top skills for your medical assistant resume, education, certs, projects, interests, and hobbies.

• Resume customization for every medical assistant job application

Edit for a flawless medical assistant resume

Though similar in many ways, a resume objective  and summary statement are slightly different paragraphs to consider including in your medical assistant resume. Both are highly specified, short (two to three sentence) paragraphs, but an objective will emphasize why you’re seeking the job, whereas a summary highlights the skills you’ve honed throughout your career. 

Consider including a resume objective if you’re going through a substantial career change, such as a dental assistant to a surgical assistant. An objective can also be a helpful place to emphasize why you’re seeking a particular role (and use up white space) if you have minimal experience. 

On the other hand, resume summaries focus on skills and specializations developed throughout your career. Consider adding a resume summary if you’re a seasoned medical assistant with 10+ years of experience. 

If you decide to include a resume summary or objective, you’ll need to commit to customizing it for every job to which you apply. Let’s review some great examples of highly-specialized resume summaries and objectives.

Example 1—A poorly written objective:

Want to improve my career prospects with a job that will get me experience in the medical field. 

What we don’t like: This objective contains no specific details. It should include the job title you’re seeking, one to three specific skills that will help you contribute to the work environment, and the business name to which you’re applying. This objective consumes precious space on your resume without providing any useful information.

Example 2—A strong resume objective: 

OSHA and HIPAA-compliant medical assistant with 6+ years of proven experience serving 100+ daily patients in fast-paced ER environments. Seeking an opportunity at Trinity United Healthcare to continue serving patients and medical staff in the Pediatric Orthopedics department, where my efficient workflow and compassionate care management can help ensure more patients are served per hour. 

What we like:  Specific skills, years of experience, job title, hospital name, and work contributions were mentioned. A resume objective like the one above and the visual sample below deserve the space they take up on your resume.

Example 3—A poorly worded summary:

I have years of experience working well as a medical assistant.

What we don’t like:  Like the first objective example, this summary provides little substance. It’s vague and short.

Example 4—A strong resume summary:

Detail-oriented medical assistant with 20+ years of experience in clinics and hospitals across Idaho, with a depth of knowledge of HIPAA, ERM software, medical terminology, and Microsoft Office. I enjoy working in fast-paced environments that enable me to improve patient comfort, physician efficiency, and operating systems.

What we like:  This summary gets right to the point, discussing some of the most valuable skills a great medical assistant will possess while highlighting years of work experience and how they would add value to the business.

Your work experience section should include two to four positions you’ve had throughout your career. That means, if you’ve been a medical assistant for many years, you don’t need to include information about the job you had in high school. Instead, focus on the most recent 10-year period, and narrow that list to the most relevant.

Note: if you’ve just entered the workforce, there’s nothing wrong with highlighting less relevant job experience or even class projects and volunteer experience, but we’ll touch on that later.

Writing your job description bullet points

Chunking your job description text with bullet points is a great way to enhance readability and reduce a visually dense or overwhelming resume.

While writing bullet points , focus on:

• Action verbs:  Start each bullet point with strong, unique verbs such as “Outperformed” or “Overhauled.”
• Active voice:  Avoid passive voice. A passive phrase, like “the IV was inserted by the R.N.,” is less interesting than active language, like “the R.N. inserted the IV.”
• Avoid personal pronouns:  The employer knows your resume is written about you! 
• Either using punctuation or not:  When you start writing your bullet points, you can leave periods at the end of your sentences or skip them. Whatever you choose, be consistent. 
• Verb tense:  Though you can keep your current experience in the past tense, ensure all your past work experience is written in the past tense. 

Here are a few medical assistant bullet points that incorporate this advice:

• Overhauled clinic software operations, integrating Meditech EMR to boost office operation efficiency. 
• Initiated HIPAA-compliant integration into Microsoft Office scheduling systems. 
• Outperformed efficiency targets, reaching more clients to confirm appointments and follow up on visits than any other M.A. 

We like these bullet points because they use active voice and action words while avoiding personal pronouns such as “I” or “my,” and they have consistent punctuation written in the past tense. 

Quantify your medical assistant impact 

The only thing our above bullet point examples are missing is quantifiable metrics (numbers). Numbers are an essential element in your medical assistant resume, and you should aim for at least 50 percent of your bullet points, including them. 

Why are metrics important? 

Numbers positively impact your resume in two ways. First, the visual interest helps break up text and draw in hiring managers’ eyes. This is critical, as it will encourage them to read your resume more thoroughly. Second, numbers are impressive because they demonstrate your proven job performance. In the context of your medical assistant resume, numbers say a thousand words. 

Here are a few places you can leverage metrics from your medical assistant work experience:

• Consider highlighting your organizational skills by noting the number of patient records you’ve organized. You may also wish to discuss the number of patients you call per shift, the size of the hospital you work for (volume of patients, number of physicians, etc.), or the percentage of patients who gave you positive reviews. 
• Highlight how you’ve improved workflow as a medical assistant. Perhaps that means you’ve provided hundreds of appointment confirmations, reducing gaps in physician schedules? Or maybe you reorganized E.M.R. software, resulting in increased capacity for patients?
• Including metrics about your administrative duties isn’t too hard. Think about the percentage of total office insurance forms you processed, the number of appointments you’ve scheduled per shift, referrals you’ve written, or the types of electronic medical records software you’re trained to use. 

Here are a few examples of job description bullet points that would work well for any medical assistant resume.

• Automated 6 clerical functions, including processing insurance forms and filing medical records
• Scheduled 30+ daily patients for diagnostic testing and follow-up appointments to ensure completion of testing
• Overhauled and maintained EMR by performing 100% of order reconciliations, secure messaging, and other tasks

One of the most under-utilized sections on most resumes is the skills section. Many medical assistants don’t realize that this section is essential for catching the eye of ATS. Since ATS works by matching keywords in your resume to pre-selected words (skills) chosen by hiring managers, you want to ensure you’re listing the right skills. 

Ideally, your medical assistant resume should include both hard and soft skills. Hard skills such as “CRM software proficiency” can be trained. They’re highly specific to the job title you’re seeking, and they demonstrate your ability to utilize the skill (they’re easily measurable). 

On the other hand, soft skills are skills you can include on any resume. These skills, such as “organization” or “attention to detail,” are universally important. However, it’s difficult to measure these skills; they’re often overused and may be disregarded by hiring managers. 

Focus mostly on hard skills while incorporating a few particularly relevant soft skills. Include 6 to 10 resume-relevant skills for your medical assistant resume, such as:

• Infectious Disease Mitigation and HIPAA compliance:  Being aware of regulations, laws, and best practices to keep patient information safe while reducing the risk of contracting or spreading disease. Hiring managers won’t overlook these hard skills. 
• Reading electrocardiograms (EKG) : This is a great hard skill that not all medical assistants have. Stand out by emphasizing your vitals-taking skills. 
• EMR software:  Do you have an understanding of Epic or Meditech software? Specify which EMR systems you know.
• Typing speed:  If you want to impress, use this hard skill and share your words per minute.
• Bilingual:  Do you know Spanish, A.S.L., or Arabic? Share this hard skill, as it’s always in high demand in healthcare. 
• Compassionate care:  This is a soft skill, but it’s important that the focus of all of your work as a medical assistant is on the health and well-being of your patients.

Becoming a medical assistant has a few different educational routes. Some employers are satisfied with on-the-job training experience, while others seek applicants with one-year certificates or an associate’s degree. Legally, there are no formal training requirements to become a medical assistant. 

When listing your education, avoid including too many details unless you’re a recent graduate with limited work experience. As you gain work experience, you can reduce details about your education, including only your most advanced education level.

Though not required by all employers, most prefer CPR and First Aid Certification; if you have your Certified Medical Assistant Certification (AAMA), include it. Like Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CASC), other specialized certifications will make your resume even more impressive. 

Wow employers with your most impressive certs.

You may wonder if you should include  resume-related interests and hobbies  in your piece. Generally, we don’t recommend medical assistants have these on their resumes, but there are instances it may be appropriate: 

• Anyone with minimal work experience should consider adding interests and hobbies.
• Just make sure you elaborate on how the hobby or interest is relevant during an interview! 
• Perhaps you’ve spent years volunteering for a non-profit that sorts and ships medical equipment around the world? Or maybe you volunteer with the administrative office at your local hospital? 

Resume customization for every medical assistant job app

Want to stand out from the competition? Then  make sure the employer sees that you read the job description , that you take their time seriously, and that you genuinely want this position.

Show you care by customizing your resume to every job you apply for.

• If you include a resume objective or summary, tailor it to the job—mention specifics like the job title, relevant skills, and the company name. 
• Your skills section should be fully customized. Read the job description to determine which skills are essential to the hiring manager. 
• Your bullet points should also be specialized. Again, focus on what the job description says, and write your bullet points to highlight your most closely-aligning experience.

Finally completed your resume? Step back from your masterpiece and come back with fresh eyes for the edits. Once you return to it, you may be surprised that a few grammatical errors made it prominently onto your resume.

Wahoo, cheers to you! You’ve taken the first step to upping your resume game. We’ve covered many topics, including formatting techniques, ATS, skills section, work experience tips, and more. We know you’re ready for the next step:

• Tap into our  resume checker  to upload your existing medical assistant resume. Once there, you’ll get AI-powered tips to improve things like verb tense, work experience, word counts (per bullet point and resume), and your use of action words. 
• Don’t have a resume yet or want to start from scratch? Check out our  AI resume builder , which allows you to build a brand-new piece using AI-powered tips. 

Medical Assistant Resume - Examples & Guide for 2024

Medical assistants play a crucial role in protecting our lives.

And you’ve got everything it takes to do so.

In fact, you love taking care of your patients.

Taking care of your resume is a different story.

Thankfully, we have created this guide to assist you with every step in building a medical assistant resume. 

• An example of a finished medical assistant resume that works
• How to write a medical assistant resume that’ll fill up your interview diary
• How to make your medical assistant resume stand out [with top tips & tricks]

Before we get into the details, here’s a medical assistant resume example , created with our very own resume builder :

Looks first-class, right?! The good news is that you can create one just like this.

Just follow the steps below.

How to Format a Medical Assistant Resume

Before you can wow the recruiter with your skills and experiences, you need pick the best format.

You see, there will be a correct format for your specific situation.

Choosing the correct format will allow the recruiter to easily see your best attributes. 

The most common resume format is “ reverse-chronological ”, and it’s not surprise. Essentially, this format puts your best attributes up-top. We recommend starting with this format.

The following resume formats also get our approval:

• Functional Resume – If you have the relevant skills, but not much of a work history, this resume format is recommended. It’s ideal for trained medical assistants that are new to the field or have gaps in their employment history
• Combination Resume – Combining both “Functional” and “Reverse-Chronological”, this format focuses both on skills AND work experience. In opposition to the functional resume, you can use a combination resume if you have a wealth of work experience

Once your format has been selected, you need to decide on your resume layout .

Use a Medical Assistant Resume Template

Creating a resume seems easy.

Just fire-up Microsoft Word and start typing, right?!

Well, not quite.

Using Word can result in a resume layout that falls apart with just a small alteration. 

Want to skip formatting issues? Use one of our resume templates that can easily be personalized for a medical assistant position.

What to Include in a Medical Assistant Resume

The main sections in a medical assistant resume are:

• Contact Information
• Work Experience
• Certificates

Want to go a step further? You can also add these optional sections:

• Awards & Achievements
• Volunteer Experience
• Personal Projects

Interests & Hobbies

That’s an impressive list, but what should you write for each section?

Read on to find out.

Want to know more about resume sections? View our guide on What to Put on a Resume .

How to Correctly Display your Contact Information

Now, this is a simple section, but there are a few important things to remember. 

An incorrect contact section can result in the recruiter not able to offer you the job – disaster! 

The contact information resume section should include:

• Professional Title – In this case, “Medical Assistant”
• Phone Number – Check, check, and then check again
• Email Address – Use a professional email address ([email protected]), not your childhood email ([email protected])
• Location - Applying for a job abroad? Mention your location
• Jessica May - Medical Assistant. 101-358-6095. [email protected]
• Jessica May - Medical Assistant. 101-358-6095. [email protected]

How to Write a Medical Assistant Resume Summary or Objective

Here’s a fact for you - recruiters read each resume for just a few seconds.

With hundreds of resumes to review, can we blame them?

With the recruiter simply glancing over the page, you need to instantly capture their attention to keep them reading.  

To do this, use a resume summary or objective .

These are both powerful introductions that show what you’re really capable of doing.

But what is the difference between the two sections?

A resume summary is a 2-4 sentence summary of your professional experiences and achievements.

Certified medical assistant looking to use patient care skills to support service at Medical-X. 5+ years of experience includes working in a fast-paced care clinic to triage patients, take vital signs, and assist with all areas of patient care. Top achievements include managing EHR documentation for all visits, which gave 18% less errors than average.

A resume objective is a 2-4 sentence snapshot of what you want to achieve professionally.

Motivated medical assistant seeking to support patient care at Medical-X. Experience includes a placement at a fast-paced private clinic. Proven skills include EHR, inventory management, and empathy.

So, which one is best, summary or objective?

Generally, we recommend that those with experience as a medical assistant should use a resume summary. An objective is suited to those who have the skills, but lack experience in the medical field (graduates, career changers, or those still studying).

How to Make Your Medical Assistant Work Experience Stand Out

Recruiters want to know that their new medical assistant will do a good job.

The best way to give confidence to the recruiter is to show work experience.

We recommend the following structure:

• Position name
• Company Name
• Responsibilities & Achievements

Medical Assistant

San Jose Clinic

06/2016 - 09/2020

• Worked in a fast-paced care clinic to triage patients, take vital signs, and assist with all areas of patient care
• Managed EHR documentation for all visits, which gave 18% less errors than average
• Assisted patients with their daily needs, which resulted in 98% positive feedback in patient surveys
• Played a vital role in implementing the practice’s quality assurance program, which ensured compliance with HIPAA, CLIA and OSHA regulations

To separate your application from the other candidates, you should highlight your achievements instead of your daily tasks. 

Instead of saying:

“Managed documents”

“Managed EHR documentation for all visits, which gave 18% less errors than average”

Simply, the first statement is way too vague. It shows you were in charge of documentation, but it doesn’t show if your work benefited the practise or not. 

The second statement shows that your work resulted in 18% less errors. Hard figures that show your talents – impressive!

Use Action Words to Make Your Medical Assistant Resume POP!

you want to separate your resume from the competition, which means using power words to make your achievements stand out , such as:

• Coordinated
• Implemented

How to Correctly List your Education

Next up on your appointment list –

Your education section!

There’s no magic medicine here, just simply enter your education history in the following format:

• Degree Type & Major
• University Name
• Years Studied
• GPA, Honours, Courses, and anything else you might want to add

B.S. in Healthcare Management

Boston State University

2012 - 2016

• Relevant Courses: Public Health, Introduction to Healthcare Informatics, Research Methods in Healthcare, Occupational Psychology

Now, you may have some further questions that need answering. Here are the answers to some of the most frequent questions that we get:

• What if I haven’t completed education yet?

Regardless of whether you’re a graduate or still studying, you should still mention every year of education to date

• Should I include my high school education?

The general rule is to only include your highest education. So, include your high school education if you don’t have a relevant degree

• What do I put first, my education or experience?

Experiences are the priority, so those go first. If you’re a recent graduate, you will likely need to start with education

Need more advice? Check out our guide on how to list education on a resume .

Top 12 Skills for a Medical Assistant Resume

It goes without saying, but the recruiter wants a highly-skilled medical assistant.

In fact, they will be looking for certain skills as they flick through your resume.

If you don’t list the correct ones, your resume may be chucked into the bin like a used face mask. 

Here are some of the most common and desirable medical assistant skills...

Hard Skills for a Medical Assistant:

• Patient Assessment
• Clinical Research
• HIPAA Compliance Training
• Recording Patient Medical History
• Patient Preparation
• Electrocardiogram (EKG)
• Administering Injections
• Appointment Scheduling
• TB Test Clearance
• Insurance Billing
• Equipment Sterilization
• Medical Supply Inventory
• EHR Software
• ICD 10 Codes
• Phlebotomy 

Soft Skills for a Medical Assistant:

• Detail-Orientated 
• Communication
• Time-Management

Generally, try to keep the soft skills to a minimum. You see, any graduate can say they have creative skills, but not many are skilled with EHR Software.

Here’s a more comprehensive list of 150+ must-have skills this year .

What Else Can You Include?

Your medical assistant resume has been taken care of!

Well, nearly…

Your resume needs to stand out!

Acing the above sections should be enough to get you shortlisted, but adding extra sections can be the major factor in whether you become the new medical assistant or not.

Awards & Certifications

Has your work ever been rewarded with an award?

Have you completed any courses to make you a better employee?

Whatever it is, proudly display any achievements in this section.

Here’s an example:

Awards & Certificates

• “Foundations of Assisting in Home Care” - Coursera Certificate
• “Newborn Baby Care” - Coursera Certificate
• “Critical Thinking Masterclass” - MadeUpUniversity

Now, there’s a low chance that you will need to speak a second language.

However, being able to speak multiple languages is always impressive to recruiters, so feel free to add a language section if you have space.

Rank the languages by proficiency:

• Intermediate

Now, why would the recruiter want their medical assistant to have hobbies?

Well, they aren’t looking for any hobbies in particular, but a hobbies section reveals what kind of person you are. 

Hobbies show that you’ll be a good part of the team, especially if you enjoy social activities. 

Here’s which hobbies & interests you may want to mention.

Include a Cover Letter with Your Resume

What’s the perfect way to assist your resume?

A well-written cover letter!

You see, a cover letter takes your application to that next level. 

Unlike a generic resume sent to every company, a cover letter shows the recruiter that you care about working for their company.

To create a cover letter that gets results, we must ensure that it is structured correctly. Here’s how to do that:

You should complete the following sections:

Personal Contact Information

Your full name, profession, email, phone number, location.

Hiring Manager’s Contact Information

Full name, position, location, email

Opening Paragraph

The recruiter won’t spend much time reading your application. As such, the first paragraph should briefly mention:

• The position you’re applying for
• Your experience summary and best achievement to date

With the recruiter interested, you can get deeper into the following specifics:

• Why you chose this specific company
• What you know about the company
• How your skills are relevant for the job
• Which similar industries or positions have you worked in before

Closing Paragraph

Just like a conversation, you shouldn’t finish abruptly. You should:

• Conclude the points of the application
• Thank the recruiter for the job opportunity
• Finish with a simple call to action to continue the conversation at a later date. A simple “At your earliest opportunity, I’d love to discuss more about how I can help company X” will work

Formal Salutations

End the letter in a professional manner. We recommend something like, “Kind regards” or “Sincerely”

For more inspiration, read our step-by-step guide on how to write a cover letter .

Considering a different position in the medical field? We have more resume examples for you:

• Nurse Resume
• Pharmacist Resume
• Dentist Resume

Key Takeaways

So, this marks the end of the guide.

But this also marks the start of your new job.

Just follow the advice in this guide to create a job-winning medical assistant resume.

Let’s quickly recap the main talking points:

• Format your medical assistant resume correctly. Use the reverse-chronological format, and then follow the content layout recommendations
• Start your resume with a summary or objective to hook the recruiter
• Highlight the best achievements from your work history, rather than your responsibilities
• Attach a convincing cover letter to make your application stand out

Suggested Reading:

What Are Your Career Goals - How to Answer w/ [Examples]

101 Best Career Tips From Industry Experts [2024 Edition]

Best Resume File Type - PDF vs Word [+Templates]

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