MGMA Insights: Don Balasa on the Evolving Role and Legal Landscape of Medical Assistants

In this episode of the MGMA Insights Podcast, host Daniel Williams interviews Don Balasa, JD, MBA, the CEO and legal counsel of the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA). They discuss the evolving role of medical assistants in healthcare, the legal challenges they face, and the future growth of the profession.

Main Takeaways:

• Medical assistants have expanded their roles from primarily clinical and administrative tasks to specializing in either clinical or administrative work while still needing education in both areas.
• The AAMA protects the rights of medical assistants, offers certification, and provides education and advocacy for the profession.
• Legal challenges for medical assistants include delegating advanced tasks, scope of practice variations by state and profession, and the rise of telemedicine.
• Medical assistants can help practices navigate staffing shortages by pursuing upward mobility and utilizing their education and credentials.
• The future of medical assisting is bright, with projected growth through 2024 and the launch of AAMA's new advisory service for outpatient care settings.

Sources and Resources:

• American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA): www.aama-ntl.org
• FAQ on Medical Assistants: https://www.aama-ntl.org/medical-assisting/faqs-medical-assisting

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