Jersey Community Hospital

Partnership Offers Free Training for Registered Medical Assistants

Imagine the opportunity to join a growing healthcare profession without paying for the schooling. This attractive offer is available to up to three entry-level employees at Jersey Community Hospital (JCH) every year through a partnership with Lewis and Clark Community College and the Madison County Grants Department.

As an occupation, registered medical assistants (RMAs) are projected to grow 14% between 2022 and 2032, which the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics noted is “much faster than average.” The partnership is designed to foster a skilled workforce while aiding individuals in advancing their careers. The hospital encourages employees to continue their employment with JCH post-graduation.

A critical part of the care team, RMAs perform a variety of clinical duties under the supervision of a physician or nurse practitioner, including:

• Taking patient histories and vital signs;

• Preparing patients for procedures;

• Assisting healthcare professionals with examinations and treatments;

• Collecting and processing specimens;

• Performing certain diagnostic tests;

• Administering injections; and 

• Preparing and administering medications as directed by the physician.

During the 2023-24 school year, two JCH employees successfully completed the program after passing the RMA exam—also at no cost and without sacrificing their current positions and full-time status employment. The college’s program has a 100% pass rate for the RMA exam.

“JCH strives to provide high-quality healthcare services to the community and beyond, however faces an ongoing challenge in finding and retaining skilled professionals such as the RMA position,” hospital leaders said. “This program assists JCH to invest in the education and training of current staff, which in return helps with filling critical positions, retaining dedicated employees and strengthening community ties.”