Can I Become a Medical Assistant with a Petty Theft Conviction?

Many individuals facing legal challenges, such as a petty theft conviction, wonder if they can still pursue a career in the medical field. This article will explore the possibilities of becoming a Medical Assistant (MA) with a misdemeanor on your record.

Understanding Petty Theft and Misdemeanors

Let’s start with the basics. Petty theft and its cousin, possession of paraphernalia, are considered misdemeanors. In most jurisdictions, a misdemeanor involves a less severe crime than a felony and typically results in a sentence of one year or less in a county jail or similar local correctional facility.

My Journey as a Medical Assistant

When I was 22 years old, life had its challenges. After serving a sentence for petty theft and violation of probation in 2002, I made a commitment to turn my life around. I enrolled at Bryman College for a Medical Assisting/Phlebotomy program in 2003. With a record that included some misdemeanors, I managed to graduate and complete my externship at Planned Parenthood. They even hired me after I completed my hours, demonstrating that having a misdemeanors record doesn’t necessarily hinder your career opportunities in healthcare.

Requirements for Medical Assistants

It’s important to note that you don’t need to be Certified to be a Medical Assistant. According to my experience, many positions are open to those with the necessary skills and a certificate, rather than strict certification requirements. I never needed certification and never had any issues finding work, proving that certification is not a universal requirement for this role.

Challenges and Opportunities

While you can work as a Medical Assistant with a misdemeanor on your record, certification might still present a challenge. Most testing centers, like the American Medical Technologists (AMT) and the National Healthcareer Association (NHA), would deny you access to the exam with a conviction on your record. However, you have the option to write a letter of appeal.

Writing a Letter of Appeal

To have a chance, you would need to contact the appropriate certification board, such as the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA). A friend of mine faced a similar situation and was granted permission to sit for the exam. The key to success lies in presenting a compelling case and highlighting your commitment to ethical and professional behavior.

Managing Your Career

As a Medical Assistant, you might find yourself in a position where you have more skills and knowledge than your nursing colleagues but are still under their supervision. This can lead to frustration and a sense of stagnation. It’s important to consider long-term career goals and whether there are opportunities for advancement within your current role.

Conclusion

Is it possible to become a Medical Assistant with a petty theft conviction and a misdemeanor record? Yes, it is. However, the road to certification might require additional steps like appealing and explaining your situation. It’s crucial to be prepared, stay professional, and set clear career goals. Even if it’s a dead-end job, there are ways to leverage your skills for future opportunities.

Keywords: petty theft, medical assistant, misdemeanor, certification