Summary
Role of medico-psychological help
To accompany
The AMP is present on a daily basis to help the person with a disability to carry out the tasks of everyday life:
- wash yourself ;
- get dressed ;
- to change ;
- Eat…
She also accompanies him on his trips, such as to go to doctor’s appointments or to various activities.
Awake
She also participates in the psychomotor development of the people for whom she is responsible. For example, she encourages the youngest to express themselves orally or to distract themselves with simple games. AMP also encourages adults to participate in social and relationship activities.
To secure
The AMP prevents dangers by supporting people with disabilities or dependents who are deprived of their autonomy. It makes it possible to avoid isolation but also to prevent risks.
Working conditions of the medical-psychological assistant
Not in patients’ homes
MAP can intervene in many establishments, often specialized:
- associative or municipal circles;
- hospital ;
- clinic;
- Care center ;
- retirement home ;
- educational medical institute;
- medical-educational institute;
- medical-professional institute;
- specialized home…
Multiple Patients
The AMP is able to take care of people who are very different from each other and who do not require the same care. But she often chooses a specialty to devote herself either:
- children and/or adolescents;
- adults with severe disabilities;
- to the elderly.
Staggered hours
The children or adults cared for by the AMP require constant daily vigilance. The AMP is therefore required to work on weekends, holidays and certain nights.
In a multidisciplinary team
The AMP is not alone: it works in close collaboration with a team of paramedical and social professionals, such as:
How much does a medico-psychological assistant earn?
In the public sector, an AMP generally begins with the minimum wage. In the private sector, at the start of her career, she receives around €1,500 gross per month, and €2,000 after several years of practice.
Training to become a medico-psychological assistant
DEAMP
The State diploma in medico-psychological assistance, which replaces the certificate of aptitude for the medico-psychological assistance function, allows access to the profession of AMP. It is issued by the DRASS (regional directorates of health and social affairs). The training lasts between 1 and 2 years. It includes theoretical teaching and internships.
Qualifications needed to become a medical-psychological assistant
Human qualities
The AMP must always be attentive and patient. She deals with people who often find it difficult to express themselves: it is necessary to put them in confidence and establish a warm relationship. The AMP must still be a good facilitator and enjoy contact with patients, their families or colleagues.
Resistance
She must also have a certain physical resistance since she has to carry her patients or support them, especially during treatment. But also an emotional resistance: the AMP sees the daily evolution of its patients, it can be confronted with difficult situations.
Content updated on 07/06/2012
Our tips:
For more information on the profession of medico-psychological assistant, you can visit the website www.lesocial.fr/aide-medico-psychologique.