Prison Medical Assistant Jobs

Answer 1

A medical assistant is a medical professional who helps doctors provide adequate care for their patients. Since inmates are provided with medical care, there is a growing need for medical assistants in prisons. This job is a very interesting one and a great fit for those who have a need to do something different with their careers.

Role of the prison medical assistant

A medical assistant who works in a prison has the same basic duties as any other medical assistant. They treat basic illnesses and help advise patients in regards to preventative care. Prison medical assistants also take patients' vital signs and explain procedures. They help set up exam rooms, sterilize equipment and stock supplies.

Work environment

Medical assistants who work in prisons must sometimes deal with hostile patients. Some prisoners are belligerant or dangerous. Prison medical assistants do receive specific training that teaches them how to deal with problems of this nature. Medical assistants usually work in the daytime and on weekends to avoid working with patients after dark when dangerous incidents are more common in prisons.

If you are considering a career as a prison medical assistant, try shadowing someone in the field first. This can help you determine whether or not the position is right for you. Education and compensation

A medical assistant must hold a two-year certificate. He or she can also pass certain certification programs to make his or her skills more marketable. Prisons also arrange specific courses to teach medical assistants the ins and outs of dealing with inmates and potentially dangerous situations. The average salary in this type of position was $46,000 in 2009.

Working as a prison medical assistant is a profitable and rewarding career for those who are able to handle the stress of working with inmates. With the proper training, people with a tough personality seem to excel in this field.