NOC Version: NOC 2021 Version 1.0
Position Summary for NOC 13112 – Medical Administrative Assistants
Professionals under the Medical Office Assistant NOC code (NOC 13112) are an integral part of Canada’s healthcare system. This occupation is in high demand, and when individuals search occupations within healthcare administration, medical office assistants are consistently recognized as essential roles.
They work in hospitals, medical clinics, private practices, and other healthcare facilities, where they perform a wide variety of administrative and secretarial duties that keep medical offices running efficiently. These skilled workers manage appointments, maintain confidential patient records, prepare medical reports, process insurance claims, and provide essential communication between patients and healthcare staff.
Medical office assistants are highly organized, detail-oriented, and adaptable. They use specialized medical software, electronic health record systems, and office management tools to handle sensitive information and ensure compliance with healthcare regulations. Among healthcare occupations, this role is particularly well-suited for individuals who thrive in structured environments, enjoy administrative work, and want to contribute to patient care through organizational and clerical support.
Job Titles Specific to NOC 13112 in Canada
Administrative Assistant – Medical
Medical Secretary
Ward Secretary
Administrative Assistant – Medical
Case Load Planner – Home Health Care Services
Medical Administrative Assistant
Medical Secretary
Medical Stenographer
Ward Secretary (also Ward Secretary — Hospital)
Medical Office Assistant
Medical Receptionist
Unit Clerk (in various contexts such as Unit Clerk, Emergency; Unit Clerk, Renal; Unit Clerk, Emergency – Temporary; etc.)
Medical Office Administrator
Main Responsibilities Common for NOC 13112 in Canada
Schedule and confirm medical appointments; receive and communicate messages for patients and medical staff.
Enter and format medical reports and correspondence electronically; prepare spreadsheets, records, and documents for review.
Interview patients to complete forms, case histories, and related documents.
Complete insurance claims and other medical forms.
Initiate and maintain confidential medical files and patient records.
Prepare draft agendas for meetings; take, transcribe, and distribute minutes.
Assist with billing procedures and prepare financial statements.
Establish and maintain office administrative procedures such as document tracking, filing systems, and reporting schedules.
Order supplies, maintain inventory, and ensure smooth office operations.
Determine and establish standard office routines and policies.
May supervise and train new staff on medical office procedures and software applications.
Job Requirements for NOC 13112 in Canada
Education:
Completion of secondary school is usually required.
Completion of a one- or two-year college program or other specialized courses for secretaries or medical secretaries is usually required.
Experience:
Prior administrative or clerical experience, particularly in medical settings, is considered an asset.
Skills:
Strong organizational and multitasking skills
Knowledge of medical terminology and healthcare documentation
Proficiency with medical office software and electronic health records (EHR)
Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities
High attention to detail and confidentiality when handling patient information
Median Hourly Wages by Provinces
(Note: Wage estimates are based on publicly available data and may vary depending on region, experience, qualifications, and employer. These figures are intended as general guidelines and do not guarantee specific earnings.)
| Province/Territory | Median Hourly Wage |
|---|---|
| Canada (National) | $23.00 |
| Alberta | $24.00 |
| British Columbia | $23.50 |
| Ontario | $23.00 |
| Quebec | $21.50 |
| Saskatchewan | $22.50 |
| Manitoba | $21.00 |
| Nova Scotia | $21.00 |
| Newfoundland & Labrador | $21.50 |
| Northwest Territories | $28.00 |
| Yukon | $27.00 |
(Source: Job Bank Canada, 2024)
Utilizing Government Resources
Online
Visit the National Occupational Classification (NOC) for detailed information about this occupation.
Use Job Bank Canada to find medical office assistant job openings, wage details, and employment outlooks by province.
Offline
Attend training sessions, seminars, or workshops focused on medical administration and office management.
Enroll in accredited college programs or private training institutions offering diplomas or certificates in medical office administration.
Final Word
Professionals working under the Medical Office Assistant NOC code are the administrative backbone of Canada’s healthcare sector. By managing appointments, records, billing, and communication, they allow healthcare professionals to dedicate more time to patient care. Their work combines organization, communication, and attention to detail with knowledge of medical systems and procedures.
Each year, employment opportunities for medical office assistants remain steady, as the demand for healthcare services continues to grow across Canada. The requirements for entering this role typically include completion of a college program in health administration or office administration, with many employers also valuing on-the-job training and prior clerical experience.
For those conducting a new search into healthcare-related occupations, medical office assistant positions consistently rank as practical entry points into the industry. This occupation offers individuals the chance to work closely with both patients and medical staff, creating an engaging and dynamic workplace environment.
In addition, medical office assistants can progress into advanced administrative or managerial roles within clinics, hospitals, and private practices. With additional training and experience, they may transition into supervisory positions or even specialize in certain areas of medical administration. The versatility of the role ensures long-term career stability and growth, making it one of the most rewarding healthcare occupations available for individuals who value structured work, confidentiality, and meaningful contribution.
