How to Certify as a Medical Assistant: Your Definitive Guide
Want to certify as a medical assistant? This comprehensive guide details the essential steps and requirements to achieve your medical assisting certification and launch your healthcare career.
Introduction: The Growing Demand for Certified Medical Assistants
The healthcare industry is booming, and with it comes a growing demand for skilled and certified medical assistants (CMAs). A medical assistant plays a vital role in a physician’s office, clinic, or hospital, providing both administrative and clinical support. Because of the sensitive nature of the work, employers prefer to hire certified medical assistants. Certification demonstrates competence, knowledge, and a commitment to professional standards, making you a highly competitive candidate in today’s job market. This guide provides a detailed roadmap on how to certify as a medical assistant.
Why Certify as a Medical Assistant? The Benefits Explained
While not always legally required (depending on the state), certification offers numerous advantages. Here are some key benefits:
- Enhanced Career Prospects: Certification opens doors to more job opportunities and often qualifies you for higher salaries. Employers recognize the value of a CMA credential, like the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) from the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA), or the Registered Medical Assistant (RMA) from American Medical Technologists (AMT).
- Increased Earning Potential: Studies show that certified medical assistants typically earn more than their non-certified counterparts. Your demonstrated skills command a higher value.
- Professional Credibility: Certification establishes your professionalism and commitment to upholding industry standards. It signals to employers and patients that you have met rigorous competency requirements.
- Improved Patient Care: Certification requires ongoing education and adherence to best practices, ultimately contributing to higher quality patient care.
- Personal Satisfaction: Achieving certification is a significant accomplishment that provides a sense of pride and confidence in your abilities.
The Path to Certification: Steps to Success
The process of achieving medical assistant certification typically involves these key steps:
- Complete an Accredited Medical Assistant Program: This is often the most important requirement.
- Look for programs accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) or the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES).
- Accreditation ensures the program meets specific quality standards and that its graduates are eligible to sit for certification exams.
- Programs typically last between 9 months and 2 years.
- Gain Practical Experience: Many programs include an externship or clinical rotation component. Hands-on experience is invaluable for developing essential skills and building confidence.
- Choose a Certifying Body: Select the certification you wish to pursue (e.g., CMA, RMA). Each certifying body has its own eligibility requirements and exam format.
- Meet Eligibility Requirements: Carefully review the eligibility requirements set by your chosen certifying body. This may include program completion, specific coursework, and/or work experience.
- Apply for the Certification Exam: Once you meet the eligibility criteria, submit your application and pay the exam fee.
- Prepare for the Exam: Utilize study guides, practice tests, and other resources to prepare for the certification exam.
- Pass the Certification Exam: Successfully pass the certification exam to earn your CMA or RMA credential.
- Maintain Your Certification: Certification typically requires ongoing continuing education units (CEUs) to stay current with industry advancements.
Choosing the Right Certification: CMA vs. RMA
Two of the most recognized medical assistant certifications are the CMA (Certified Medical Assistant) offered by the AAMA and the RMA (Registered Medical Assistant) offered by AMT. Here’s a brief comparison:
| Feature | CMA (AAMA) | RMA (AMT) |
|---|---|---|
| Organization | American Association of Medical Assistants | American Medical Technologists |
| Exam Focus | Broader scope, including clinical and administrative areas | Slightly more emphasis on clinical procedures |
| Eligibility | Graduation from a CAAHEP or ABHES accredited program | Graduation from an accredited program or alternative pathways like military training/work experience. |
| Recertification | Continuing education or re-examination | Continuing education |
The best choice depends on your individual career goals and the specific requirements of your employer or the geographic location where you wish to work. Research which certifications are most valued in your area.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Seeking Certification
- Choosing a Non-Accredited Program: This can disqualify you from taking the certification exam. Always verify accreditation before enrolling.
- Failing to Meet Eligibility Requirements: Carefully review the requirements of your chosen certifying body.
- Inadequate Preparation: Don’t underestimate the importance of thorough exam preparation.
- Ignoring Continuing Education: Maintaining your certification requires ongoing learning.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are the specific requirements to sit for the CMA exam?
To be eligible for the CMA certification exam administered by the AAMA, you must graduate from a medical assistant program accredited by either CAAHEP or ABHES. The program must cover a comprehensive curriculum including clinical and administrative medical assisting skills. You must also adhere to the AAMA’s strict code of ethics.
How long does it take to become a certified medical assistant?
The time it takes to become a certified medical assistant varies depending on the length of the educational program. Generally, you can expect to spend between 9 months and 2 years completing a medical assistant program. After graduation, you can apply to take the certification exam.
What is the passing score for the CMA exam?
The CMA exam is scored on a scaled system, not a raw score. While the exact passing score can fluctuate slightly, you generally need to achieve a scaled score of around 430 out of 600 to pass. The AAMA does not publish the exact passing score publicly.
How much does it cost to become a certified medical assistant?
The cost of becoming a certified medical assistant includes the cost of tuition for the medical assistant program (which can range from a few thousand dollars to tens of thousands, depending on the type and length of the program), the exam fee (currently around $125 for AAMA members and $250 for non-members, but subject to change), and the cost of study materials.
What is the difference between a medical assistant and a certified medical assistant?
A medical assistant is someone who performs clinical and administrative tasks in a healthcare setting. A certified medical assistant is a medical assistant who has passed a certification exam and met the requirements of a certifying body like the AAMA or AMT. Certification demonstrates a higher level of competency and professionalism.
Are medical assistants required to be certified?
Whether medical assistants are required to be certified depends on the state and the specific employer. Some states mandate certification, while others do not. However, even if not legally required, certification is highly recommended as it enhances career prospects and earning potential.
What kind of continuing education is required to maintain my CMA certification?
To maintain your CMA certification, you must accumulate 60 continuing education units (CEUs) every five years. These CEUs must be in areas relevant to medical assisting practice. The AAMA offers various options for earning CEUs, including online courses, workshops, and conferences.
What if my medical assistant program wasn’t accredited by CAAHEP or ABHES?
If your program wasn’t accredited, you may not be eligible to sit for the CMA exam. However, you may still be eligible for other certifications, such as the RMA, which has different eligibility requirements. Thoroughly investigate the requirements for each certification before making a decision.
What kind of job duties do certified medical assistants perform?
Certified medical assistants perform a wide range of duties, including: taking patient histories and vital signs, assisting with examinations and procedures, administering injections, performing EKGs, drawing blood, scheduling appointments, managing medical records, and processing insurance claims.
Is it difficult to certify as a medical assistant?
The difficulty of certifying as a medical assistant depends on your aptitude, dedication to studying, and the quality of your educational program. With proper preparation and commitment, passing the certification exam is achievable.
Can I certify as a medical assistant online?
You can complete a medical assistant program online, as long as it is accredited by CAAHEP or ABHES. However, some programs may require in-person clinical rotations or externships. The certification exam itself is typically administered at a testing center.
What are the best resources for preparing for the CMA or RMA exam?
The best resources for preparing for the CMA or RMA exam include official study guides from the AAMA or AMT, practice exams, online resources, and study groups. Consider taking a review course to enhance your preparation. Remember, a focused and disciplined approach is crucial for success.