Medical assistants play an important role in helping health care teams provide the best care possible for their patients. Doctors, nurses and patients all depend on medical assistants to accurately complete their responsibilities, which can include clinical and administrative tasks.

But becoming a medical assistant involves more than just completing tasks. As an M.A., you’re part of a health care team that helps people feel better. Here are seven reasons to consider a medical assisting career:

1. Great Job

In its annual “100 Best Jobs” report, U.S. News and World Report, medical assisting was #71,

2. Job Growth

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, medical assistant positions are expected to grow by 29% between 2012 and 2022.

3. Personal Fulfillment

Medical assistants make a difference in people’s lives every day by interacting with patients and their families.

4. Never Boring

Medical assistants see and take part in situations that people in most professions never will.

5. Professional Growth

The responsibilities include administrative and clinical tasks, and there’s always opportunity to learn and acquire more training.

6. Job Security

The health care industry is expected to expand in the coming years, meaning there will be an increased demand for all positions, especially medical assistants.

7. Options

M.A.s can work in a number of health care facilities, including hospitals, clinics, private practices and ambulatory care.