Study At A Medical Assistant School in New Mexico, Pursue A Perfect Career For You
Many colleges and vocational schools in the state of New Mexico offer medical assisting certificates, diplomas and associate and bachelor degree programs that help prepare graduates to pursue careers in physicians’ offices, clinics and nursing homes.
Did you know that Albuquerque, New Mexico is one of the metropolitan areas with the highest concentration of medical assisting jobs in the country? Before we get into education information for medical assistants in New Mexico, we thought you’d be interested to learn some general education information about the state.
Colleges in New Mexico
According to the 2018 National Center for Education Statistics:
- There are 28 public colleges in New Mexico
- 9 of those colleges are 4 year schools, while 19 are 2 year schools
- In 2018 there were 125,109 enrolled college students
- Total 2018 male fall enrollment is 51,120
- Total 2018 female fall enrollment is 73,989
Do I Need a Medical Assistant Certification in New Mexico?
While medical assistants are not required to be certified, many employers may prefer to hire someone who has earned a certification or degree in medical assisting. It is typical for medical assistants to pursue graduation from postsecondary education programs, and medical assisting programs in New Mexico are available from community colleges, vocational schools, technical schools, and universities. These programs usually lead to earning a certificate or diploma. The National Commission for Certifying Agencies accredits five certifications for medical assistants.
How Much Do Medical Assistants in New Mexico Make?
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, in 2019 there were 6,750 medical assistants in New Mexico. These 6k plus pros represent .82% of the states job. The median wage for medical assistants in New Mexico is $30,640. With an hourly median pay of $14.73.
What are the top metro areas in New Mexico to work in?
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the metro area that pays the most is Santa Fe. The 2019 median salary for medical assistants in these other metro areas is as follows:
Metro Area | Jobs | Median Hourly wage | Median Annual Wage |
---|---|---|---|
Albuquerque, NM | 4,020 | $14.93 | $31,050 |
Farmington, NM | 220 | $14.35 | $29,860 |
Las Cruces, NM | 680 | $13.04 | $27,120 |
Santa Fe, NM | 540 | $17.86 | $37,140 |
Where do medical assistants work?
Medical assistants usually work in physician’s offices, hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare facilities. They perform administrative and clinical tasks that involve working with patients, doctors, and other healthcare professionals.
A few hospitals in New Mexico:
- Presbyterian Hospital
- Christus St. Vincent Regional Medical Center
- Acoma-Canoncito-Laguna Hospital
- Saint Barnabas Medical Center
- Advanced Care Hospital of Southern Mexico
What Medical Assisting Professional Organizations are there in New Mexico?
Are you looking for a way to keep up on industry trends and network once you graduate? If so, joining a professional medical assistant organization could be the right move for you! One great option is the New Mexico State Society of Medical Assistants, which updates members on networking events and job opportunities. Visit their website to learn more.
If you’re ready to pursue a medical assisting education, then take a look at the list of medical assistant schools in New Mexico below. And remember, while you may not be required to earn a medical assisting degree or certification, some employers may prefer to hire candidates who have completed a degree from a medical assisting program or who have earned some level of certification.