Employee Spotlight: Debora Freitas, Medical Assisting Instructor
Date: October 26, 2022
Ms. Debora Freitas became a Medical Assistant with the plan for it to be a stepping stone into the registered nursing program. She completed her prerequisites for that program while working as a medical assistant, but “life happened.” She could not continue going to school but continued working as a Medical Assistant and eventually completed her Bachelor’s Degree.
Becoming a Medical Assistant enabled Ms. Freitas to experience many different opportunities. She managed Hepatitis C patients for a gastroenterology group that allowed her to facilitate educational and support groups there and for a non-profit clinic.
“Ms. Freitas is a tremendous asset to the Medical Assisting program as well as the Modesto campus,” says Tu Nguyen, Campus Director. “You can always find her in class interacting and helping the students even after class time! When she is not in her scrubs teaching, she wears the most adorable shoes with her outfits!”
Ms. Freitas’ passion for education and the medical industry led her to the opportunity to teach adults, where she can pass on her knowledge and experience!~
FAQ with Debora Freitas
What is your bachelor’s degree in? How long have you been at the Modesto campus? What brought you to Gurnick Academy of Medical Arts?
My degree is in Human Services. I’ve been at the Modesto campus for almost a year. Before this, I taught Hep C support groups for a gastroenterology medical group. Additionally, I taught medical assisting at another school. So, I would have to say I came to Gurnick Academy of Medical Arts because of my love for teaching young adults.
What particular classes do you enjoy teaching the most?
I enjoy teaching lab skills, such as injections, EKGs, vitals, and venipuncture.
How many years have you been a medical assistant professional? What has changed within medical assisting since you began?
I’ve been a medical assistant for over 35 years. Besides converting from paper to electronic charts, the most significant change I’ve seen is the number of patients the doctors see daily.
What would you tell future students?
My advice for future students would be to make the most of their education and take every opportunity to keep learning new things. Never stop learning because the medical industry is constantly changing!
How Do Medical Assistants Become Instructors?
According to an online resource, Practical Adult Insights, to become a Medical Assistant program instructor, one must have at least an associate’s degree level of education in medical assisting or nursing, plus at least two (2) years of experience in the medical field.1 However, most colleges require additional education and experience, a bachelor’s degree in nursing, and five (5) years of experience. While at some colleges and universities, a master’s degree is required.1
The profession is generally seen as a positive profession. According to US News and World Report, health educators received an overall score of 5.5 out of ten in overall job satisfaction. Further, they rated #4 in Best Education Jobs. Vocations are ranked according to their ability to offer an elusive mix of factors, including salary, future growth, stress, and work-life balance.2
All in all, healthcare instructors educate students so they, in turn, may help patients.~
Citations:
1^a, b Kelley, Tara. “How Do I Become a Medical Assistant Instructor?” Practical Adult Insights. September 26, 2022. (Accessed October 24, 2022.)
2 Bratcher, Emily. “Health Educator Overview.” US News and World Report, US News and World Report, LP. (Accessed Oct. 25, 2022.)
