If you’re passionate about working with children and interested in a healthcare career, becoming a pediatric medical assistant could be the perfect path. These professionals are essential members of pediatric care teams, helping young patients feel at ease while supporting physicians with both clinical and administrative tasks. Prism Career Institute offers a comprehensive Medical Assistant program in Pennsylvania and New Jersey. Here, we discuss pediatric medical assistant duties and other aspects of this career.
A Day in the Life: What Does a Pediatric Medical Assistant Do?
A pediatric medical assistant is a healthcare professional who helps children feel safe and supported during their healthcare visits. These workers are often the first friendly face a child sees in the exam room, playing a key role in both clinical care and administrative support. Some pediatric medical assistant duties include:
- Taking and documenting vital signs, including height, weight, temperature, and blood pressure
- Preparing exam rooms and ensuring that all medical tools and surfaces are properly sanitized
- Assisting physicians during physical exams and minor procedures by handing over instruments and helping to keep young patients calm and cooperative
- Scheduling appointments
- Updating and maintaining medical records
- Handling insurance, billing, and coding responsibilities
- Answering phone calls and inquiries
Do Pediatric Medical Assistants Give Shots and Immunizations?
Pediatric medical assistants are trained to perform a variety of clinical tasks that support physicians and ensure quality care for young patients. One of their responsibilities may include administering immunizations, but only under the supervision of a licensed healthcare provider.
Your Career Path: How Do You Become a Medical Assistant Specializing in Pediatrics?
Becoming a pediatric medical assistant starts with the same foundational steps as any medical assistant role, but with a focus on working with children and families. Steps include:
- Earning a high school diploma: Prospective pediatric MAs must have a high school diploma or equivalent degree.
- Completing a medical assistant training program: The next step is enrolling in an accredited medical assistant program, such as the one offered at Prism Career Institute. These programs typically take about nine to 12 months to complete and cover essential topics like anatomy, medical terminology, clinical procedures, and administrative tasks.
- Gaining hands-on experience: Most programs include an externship or clinical practicum, giving you real-world experience in a healthcare setting. If you’re interested in pediatrics, try to complete your externship in a pediatric office or clinic to build relevant skills.
- Passing a certification exam: After completing your training, you will likely need to pass a certification exam, such as the Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) exam offered by National Healthcareer Association (NHA).
- Seeking opportunities in pediatric settings: Once you’re trained and certified, you can apply for positions in pediatric clinics, family practices, or children’s hospitals. Employers often look for candidates who are not only clinically competent but also patient, empathetic, and great with kids.
You can also seek out continuing education classes or complete certifications that demonstrate experience with children.
Job Outlook: Is There a High Demand for Pediatric Medical Assistants?
There’s a strong and growing demand for pediatric medical assistants across the United States. As healthcare needs continue to rise, especially among children with chronic conditions and special medical needs, the role of pediatric medical assistants has become increasingly essential.
According to U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for medical assistants overall is projected to grow 12% from 2024 to 2034, which is much faster than the average for all occupations. This translates to over 112,000 job openings annually, many of which are expected to be in pediatric and family care settings.
Essential Abilities: What Skills Do You Need to Work in Pediatrics?
Working in pediatrics demands a unique combination of technical skills, emotional intelligence, and communication abilities. These are the key skills and qualities that help pediatric medical assistants succeed:
- Strong communication skills to clearly explain procedures to both children and their parents or guardians
- Patience and calmness, especially when working with young patients who may be scared, uncooperative, or in discomfort
- Attention to detail, essential when recording vital signs, updating medical records, or preparing for procedures
- Multitasking, since they must balance clinical duties with administrative responsibilities
- Teamwork, as pediatric medical assistants often collaborate closely with physicians, nurses, and other healthcare staff
Career Fulfillment: Is Pediatric Medical Assisting a Rewarding Choice?
Helping children feel safe and cared for during medical visits can be both meaningful and impactful. Pediatric medical assistants can make a positive difference in a child’s healthcare experience, often helping to reduce fear and build trust.
They also work closely with families, offering support and guidance that can ease the stress of medical visits for both children and parents. Pediatric medical assistants often feel a strong sense of purpose, knowing their work supports both medical teams and the well-being of young patients. This makes it a highly rewarding career choice.
Start Medical Assistant Training at Prism Career Institute
If you’re ready to turn your passion for helping children into a meaningful healthcare career, Prism Career Institute can help you get started. Our Medical Assistant program provides the hands-on training, clinical knowledge, and real-world experience you need to succeed in a pediatric setting. We also offer comprehensive financial aid for students who qualify and helpful career services. Call 1-888-966-8146 or contact us online to begin your journey today.