What is a Clinical Medical Assistant?

   A Clinical Medical Assistant (CMA) is a medical support professional that performs a variety of tasks to assist physicians in providing patient care. While CMAs working in smaller practices may be required to perform some administrative tasks, those working in larger medical facilities focus mainly on providing support services directly related to patient care. Typically, Medical Assistants prep rooms and prepare patients for examinations, while helping manage medical supply inventories. CMAs may also assist nurses and physicians providing direct patient care by taking medical histories, charting vitals, and assisting in procedures. Some even perform more advanced tasks under the supervision of a physician such as cleaning and dressing wounds, removing sutures, collecting blood and other specimens, as well as administering medication. 

Characteristics of a successful Clinical Medical Assistant: Excellent communicator, ability to multitask, organized, ability to handle stress and think clearly on their feet. One must be compassionate while still maintaining a professional distance.