Medical Assistants (MAs) are an essential part of the clinic care team, helping patients feel supported while keeping visits running smoothly. At Pacific Medical Centers (PacMed), MAs work in a team-based environment alongside nurses and physicians across nine clinics in the greater Seattle and Puget Sound areas. The role offers hands-on patient care, professional growth and the chance to be part of a workplace where caregivers of all backgrounds feel welcome.

Finding purpose as a Medical Assistant

For Paul, becoming a Medical Assistant was a way to combine his love of helping people with a chance to learn and grow professionally. “Helping people out gives me a sense of fulfillment,” he says. He started as an apprentice, rotated through different specialties, and eventually found his calling in dermatology. “I like dermatology the best because I get to be part of the patient’s visit as I scribe. I feel like I’m more involved with the patient’s care.” He says one of his favorite things is when patients remember him by name and ask for him personally. “I feel like I establish a deeper connection with my patients. To me they’re kind of like friends.”

For Rita, her journey started when she was still in school and she was placed at PacMed for her externship. “I wasn’t even finished with my hours yet, and I guess I impressed them. They’re like ‘We need to hire you,’” she recalls with a laugh. She’s been with PacMed for 16 years, now serving as a lead MA.

Where coworkers feel like friends—and all are welcome

Both Paul and Rita talk about PacMed as if it’s a second home where caregivers are tight-knit and everyone is included. “We care about each other and help each other out. We always have each other’s back,” Rita says.

For Paul, the welcoming environment was especially helpful after he moved from the Philippines. “Working in a healthcare setting immediately after moving here was pretty intimidating, but because of the people around me, they made everything easier. The work culture here is very down to earth.”

Clinic Supervisor Katie agrees, saying, “Everyone is very approachable, and all clinics really have a true connection.”

Growth opportunities every step of the way

Both Rita and Paul have advanced in their MA careers thanks to support from mentors and leaders. Paul moved from apprentice to MA II to senior MA, and he’s already looking ahead. “If everything goes well, I’m planning on becoming a lead for the dermatology specialty clinic.”

Clinic Supervisor Maria has seen how PacMed leaders encourage caregivers to try new things. “I’ve had great core leaders through the years that helped me develop outside of my comfort zone. They encouraged me to get involved with little projects within the clinic or with the organization. That learning and encouragement from them helped me be brave and take the step.”

Rita once hesitated to pursue the next level, but encouragement from her supervisor made all the difference. “They’re all about growth opportunities. As an MA, you can level up. My supervisor guided me into my position as a medical assistant lead.”

PacMed’s promise: culture, people, support

When asked what keeps them at PacMed, caregivers say the same things: the inclusive and supportive culture, the people and the opportunities for growth. Paul summarizes this sentiment beautifully: “PacMed is a place where I can be myself and get the support that I need.”

If you’re looking for a place where you can make real connections with patients and coworkers, PacMed could be the right fit for you. Explore open MA roles and other opportunities at PacMed >