Can Medical Assistants Work in the ER? What to Know

While MAs are not typically part of core ER staff, their diverse skill set involved in medical assisting can be valuable in emergency settings. This article explores the responsibilities of medical assistants in the ER (emergency room medical assistants), the qualifications required, and how their roles differ from other emergency healthcare professionals.

Do medical assistants work in emergency rooms?

Where can medical assistants work? Medical assistants (MAs) can work in emergency rooms (ERs) in Florida, especially after completing a medical assistant program, though their roles are often more administrative or supportive rather than directly clinical. Hospitals in Florida, including those in cities like Miami and Tampa, have job postings specifically for medical assistants in emergency settings, indicating demand for their services in ERs. However, there is a difference between medical assistants vs. EMT´s, and we will explain it. ​

ER medical assistants may be responsible for tasks such as preparing exam rooms for various medical procedures, managing patient records, assisting with patient intake, and coordinating communication between departments. Some positions may also require experience in urgent care or emergency settings, along with certifications like CPR or Basic Life Support (BLS).

Typical responsibilities of medical assistants in the ER

A certified medical assistant, who works in the ER, is vital in emergency rooms (ERs), handling both clinical and administrative tasks to support patient care. Their duties include measuring vital signs, assisting with procedures, and managing patient records, all crucial for efficient ER operations.​

If you ever wondered what a medical assistant does in the emergency room, for example, can medical assistants start iv´s?. There is a high-pressure ER environment; understanding medical technology is one of the things to know, they must be adaptable, detail-oriented, and effective communicators. Their contributions ensure that patients receive timely and coordinated care during emergencies.

Clinical duties

These clinical duties require MAs to be detail-oriented, adaptable, and familiar with medical terminology while working in high-pressure situations.

• Measuring and recording vital signs such as blood pressure, pulse, temperature, and oxygen levels.​
  
  
• Assisting with patient triage and prioritizing care based on urgency.​
  
  
• Preparing patients for diagnostic tests like X-rays or EKGs.​
  
  
• Collecting specimens for laboratory analysis.​
  
  
• Administering medications and injections as directed by physicians.​
  
  
• Assisting physicians and nurses during examinations and minor procedures.​

• Documenting patient information and treatment plans accurately.

Administrative duties

Medical assistant daily tasks include effective administrative support by MAs in providing medical services contributes to the overall efficiency and patient experience in the ER.

• Greeting patients and manage the check-in process.
  
  
• Scheduling appointments and coordinating follow-up care.​
  
  
• Maintaining and updating patient records and charts.​
  
  
• Handling billing processes and liaising with insurance companies.​
  
  
• Answering phones and directing calls appropriately.​
  
  
• Ensuring exam rooms are clean, stocked, and ready for use.​

What Limits Medical Assistants from Working in the ER

In Florida, medical assistants (MAs) working in the ER are valuable members of healthcare teams, including in emergency room (ER) settings.
MA roles are confined by state regulations and defined scopes of practice, which distinguish them from other medical personnel to ensure patient safety and maintain care standards.

Scope of Practice Limitations:

According to Florida Statute 458.3485, medical assistants are unlicensed personnel who may perform administrative and certain clinical tasks under the direct supervision of a licensed physician. 

This supervision requires the physician to be physically present in the facility and immediately available when tasks are performed. Permissible duties include taking vital signs, preparing patients for examinations, and administering medications as directed by the supervising physician. 

However, MAs are explicitly prohibited from performing functions that constitute the practice of medicine. These restrictions are in place because such tasks require advanced medical training and licensure to ensure patient safety. 

• Diagnosing or treating patients.
  
  
• Interpreting test results.
  
  
• Prescribing medications.
  
  
• Performing invasive procedures, including administering intravenous (IV) medications or anesthesia.
  
  

Emergency Room Environment:

In the fast-paced and high-acuity environment of an ER, the limitations on MAs' scopes of practice become particularly significant. While they can support the healthcare team by handling administrative duties, obtaining vital signs, and preparing patients for procedures, they cannot engage in more complex medical tasks. For instance, conducting advanced patient assessments or making clinical decisions is beyond their authorized scope.

Alternative settings for high-paced clinical experience

​Suppose you're a medical assistant seeking high-paced clinical experience beyond the emergency room. In that case, several alternative settings can provide the dynamic environment you desire or even continuing education after becoming a medical assistant. Urgent care centers, outpatient surgical centers, and specialty clinics—such as cardiology or orthopedics—offer fast-paced roles where you can apply both clinical and administrative skills.

To enhance your qualifications for these roles, consider enrolling in a comprehensive training program like the Medical Assistant Program at Florida Health Care Academy (FHCA). 

FHCA's program offers training in areas such as EKGs, injections, and medical record management, preparing you for the demands of high-paced clinical settings, including aspects like medical billing . The program also provides flexible class schedules and in-house certification opportunities, making it accessible for working professionals.