Medical assistants play a crucial role in the healthcare industry, providing administrative and clinical support to physicians, nurses, and other healthcare professionals. As the demand for medical assistants continues to grow, obtaining medical assistant certification has become increasingly important for those looking to pursue a career in this field. In this article, we will explore the steps to get medical assistant certification, including the requirements, types of certifications, and the benefits of becoming certified.
Key Points
- Meet the basic requirements for medical assistant certification, including age, education, and training
- Choose a certification program, such as the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) or Registered Medical Assistant (RMA) designation
- Prepare for the certification exam by studying and reviewing the content outline
- Pass the certification exam and maintain certification through continuing education and professional development
- Consider specializing in a particular area of medical assisting, such as pediatrics or gerontology
Meet the Basic Requirements
To become a certified medical assistant, you must meet the basic requirements set by the certifying organization. These requirements typically include being at least 18 years old, having a high school diploma or equivalent, and completing a medical assistant training program. The training program should be accredited by an organization recognized by the US Department of Education, such as the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) or the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES). The program should also include both classroom and clinical training, with a focus on subjects such as anatomy, physiology, and medical terminology.
Types of Certifications
There are several types of medical assistant certifications available, including the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) and Registered Medical Assistant (RMA) designations. The CMA certification is offered by the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA) and is considered one of the most prestigious certifications in the field. The RMA certification is offered by the American Medical Technologists (AMT) and is also highly respected. Both certifications require passing a certification exam and completing continuing education requirements to maintain certification. For example, the CMA certification requires 60 hours of continuing education every 5 years, while the RMA certification requires 30 hours of continuing education every 3 years.
| Certification | Offered By | Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) | American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA) | Pass certification exam, complete continuing education requirements |
| Registered Medical Assistant (RMA) | American Medical Technologists (AMT) | Pass certification exam, complete continuing education requirements |
Prepare for the Certification Exam
To prepare for the certification exam, you should study and review the content outline, which typically includes topics such as medical terminology, anatomy, physiology, and clinical procedures. You can use study materials such as textbooks, online courses, and practice exams to help you prepare. It’s also a good idea to join a study group or find a study buddy to help you stay motivated and focused. For example, the AAMA offers a study guide and practice exam for the CMA certification, while the AMT offers a study guide and online practice exam for the RMA certification.
Pass the Certification Exam
The certification exam is typically a multiple-choice exam that tests your knowledge and skills in areas such as medical terminology, anatomy, physiology, and clinical procedures. The exam is usually timed, and you will have a set amount of time to complete it. To pass the exam, you will need to answer a certain percentage of the questions correctly, which varies depending on the certifying organization. For example, the CMA certification exam requires a minimum score of 70% to pass, while the RMA certification exam requires a minimum score of 75% to pass.
Maintain Certification
Once you have passed the certification exam, you will need to maintain your certification through continuing education and professional development. This typically involves completing a certain number of continuing education hours every year, as well as paying an annual certification fee. You may also need to complete additional requirements, such as passing a recertification exam or completing a professional development project. For example, the CMA certification requires 60 hours of continuing education every 5 years, while the RMA certification requires 30 hours of continuing education every 3 years.
What is the difference between a CMA and an RMA certification?
+The main difference between a CMA and an RMA certification is the certifying organization and the requirements for certification. The CMA certification is offered by the AAMA, while the RMA certification is offered by the AMT. Both certifications require passing a certification exam and completing continuing education requirements to maintain certification.
How long does it take to become a certified medical assistant?
+The amount of time it takes to become a certified medical assistant can vary depending on the individual's prior education and experience. Typically, it takes around 1-2 years to complete a medical assistant training program and pass the certification exam.
What are the benefits of becoming a certified medical assistant?
+The benefits of becoming a certified medical assistant include increased job opportunities, higher salary potential, and greater respect from employers and patients. Certification also demonstrates a commitment to professionalism and excellence in the field.
In conclusion, obtaining medical assistant certification is an important step in pursuing a career in this field. By meeting the basic requirements, choosing a certification program, preparing for the certification exam, passing the exam, and maintaining certification, you can demonstrate your expertise and commitment to professionalism. With the right training and certification, you can enjoy a rewarding and challenging career as a medical assistant.
