Open Forum

My organization is looking to implement a new MA-R training program.  We are still in the preliminary planning stages, but we are thinking we would hire someone with little or no experience and put them through an 8-week training program.  I am wondering if anyone else has done something similar and if you'd be willing to share your experience.  

Thanks!

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Michelle Stoneburner
Clinical Development Manager
Confluence Health
East Wenatchee WA
(509)436-6868 (66868)
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Hi Michelle,

my organization has a MAAP program (MA Apprentice Program) where we have paired with local colleges to offer on the job training to aspiring MA's. They are hired for a 1-year apprenticeship where they will work in clinic in a prescribed capacity while doing independent study of the MA material. They sit for the exam when they are ready. At the end of the 1 year of apprenticeship, and with successful completion of the exam, they are able to apply for a CMA position. We have had some success with this program, some hiccups. We get a great deal of applicants, but it is really important to vet the applications thoroughly to make sure they are self- motivated and will work within scope. 

Hope this helps! 

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Torie Bonnet MSN, OCN, RN, NE-BC
Clinical Nurse Education Specialist, Ambulatory Care
UNC Health
Raleigh NC

torie.bonnet@unchealth.unc.edu
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