Hello Everyone!

I have been a healthcare professional for the past 13 years.  I specialize in Home Health.  I am also a Certified Nursing Assistant.  With the way the downward spirial of the economy has affected the workforce, I am thinking of a career change.  Actually, I've been contemplating this for quite some time now, since home care is not as stable as it used to be.  I'm interested in taking an online course to become a Medical Office Assistant.  I want to do front desk work.  Such as filing, answering phones, scheduling etc...  I have some questions about this.  From what I've been reading, front office MOA's aren't required to do blood draws.  There are phlebotomists out there who do that now.  Is there any truth in that?  Also, has anyone taken a Medical Office Assistant course online?  If so, how did your online studies go?  Were you able to find employment once the course was complete?  One other question, does anyone know of any financial aid assistance for people who want to further their education online?  I've been checking out the Medical Office Assistant programs through Penn Foster and Allied Health Institute.  Penn Foster's program takes about a year to complete.  Allied Health Institute's program can be completed in as little as 6 months.  I've been reading back and forth between the two, to see which program has the best accreditation.  At any rate, I am still in the beginning stages of this possible new career change.  I do know that I still want to be in the medical field and MOA seems to be the best fit for me.  Thank you in advance for your time.  All feedback is welcome.  Take care.  Have A Blessed Day!

Ms. Home Health Aide~