Medical assistants help physicians and nurses deliver patient care by performing clinical and administrative tasks. A medical assistant's administrative tasks consist of keeping medical records, greeting patients, billing and clerical duties, scheduling appointments, arranging for admission to the hospital and laboratory services, and checking supplies.

Clinical responsibilities of a medical assistant consist of: Documenting vital signs (e.g. blood pressures, pulse, respirations, and temperature), performing simple lab tests, preparing patients for examination, arranging equipment and instruments before an exam, assisting physicians during patient exams, explaining treatment, medications, diet schedules, and procedures to the patient. Some medical assistants may also remove sutures, draw blood, and change dressings. Medical assistants primarily work in outpatient settings but may work in hospitals, or specialty offices.