If you’re considering a career as a medical assistant, you could be wondering which certification is best for you – the CCMA or the CMAA.
While both certifications offer distinct career pathways, they focus on different aspects of the medical assistant profession.
So, in this article, we’ll discuss everything about the two certifications for medical assistants and discuss their key differences.
Moreover, we’ll discuss which certification could be the better option for medical assistants.
Finally, we’ll talk about a medical assistant program that could make you job-ready faster without traveling to college or without any student loan debt.
So, let’s get started.
What is a Medical Assistant Certification?
A Medical Assistant Certification is an official credential awarded to individuals who have met specific education and examination requirements in the field of medical assisting.
This certification signifies that a medical assistant has gained the knowledge and skills necessary to perform various clinical and administrative tasks in healthcare settings.
Moreover, certified medical assistants often have better job prospects, higher salaries, and more career advancement opportunities than non-certified medical assistants.
Why is a Certification very Important?
Certification for medical assistants plays a crucial role in validating skills, expanding career opportunities, and ensuring quality care in healthcare environments.
While completing an educational program is important, becoming certified offers multiple benefits that extend beyond the classroom.
Here’s why earning a certification is vital as a Medical Assistant:
Enhanced Job Opportunities
Certification opens doors to better job prospects. Many healthcare employers, especially in hospitals and large clinics, prefer or even require medical assistants to be certified. A Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) or Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) shows that you have met industry standards, making you a more attractive candidate.
Higher Salary Potential
Certified medical assistants often earn more than their non-certified counterparts. According to data, certification can lead to a higher salary, as employers are willing to pay more for individuals with proven competency. Certification can help you qualify for higher-paying positions and advanced roles.
Increased Job Security
Certification demonstrates a commitment to the profession and adherence to high standards. As healthcare organizations aim to maintain top-quality care, certified professionals are more likely to retain employment, even during uncertain economic times.
Professional Credibility
Earning a certification like the CMA or CCMA provides professional credibility. It assures employers, colleagues, and patients that you possess the knowledge, skills, and expertise necessary to perform medical and administrative tasks effectively and ethically.
Broader Scope of Practice
Certified medical assistants can often take on a broader range of responsibilities, such as handling complex medical procedures or managing administrative duties. This can make your role more dynamic and versatile within a healthcare team.
Legal Protection
In some states or healthcare settings, certification may be required for liability protection. Certified individuals are more likely to be trusted with patient care responsibilities, reducing legal risks for both the healthcare provider and the employer.
CCMA (Certified Clinical Medical Assistant)
The CCMA certification is designed for individuals looking to specialize in clinical tasks within healthcare settings. It confirms that a medical assistant is proficient in performing a variety of direct patient care tasks.
CCMA-certified professionals are trained to assist with patient exams, administer medications, perform EKGs, take patient vitals, and even draw blood. This certification ensures you are competent in hands-on, clinical aspects of patient care.
Those with CCMA certification typically work in hospitals, outpatient facilities, physicians’ offices, and urgent care centers. They may be responsible for working alongside physicians to ensure efficient patient care.
To sit for the CCMA exam, you must complete a medical assistant program or have relevant work experience. The exam consists of questions on clinical and administrative knowledge, ensuring well-rounded proficiency.
Requirements for CCMA Certification
To be eligible for the CCMA exam, candidates typically must:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Possess a high school diploma or GED
- Complete a medical assistant program or Gain 1 year of relevant work experience
CCMA Certification Exam
The CCMA exam tests both clinical and administrative knowledge, covering essential skills needed in various healthcare settings.
The exam structure is as follows:
The exam consists of multiple-choice questions, with 150 scored questions and 30 pre-test questions (unscored).
Exam Fee
The cost of the CCMA exam may vary, but typically it is $160 through the NHA. However, the fee may be included in the tuition for medical assistant programs.
Recertification
Once certified, CCMA professionals must recertify every two years to maintain their credentials.
The requirements include:
- Complete at least 10 Continuing Education Credits (CECs) during the two-year certification period.
- Pay a renewal fee, which is usually around $179.
- Failure to recertify can result in the expiration of certification, requiring retaking the exam.
CMAA (Certified Medical Administrative Assistant)
The CMAA certification focuses on administrative tasks, making it ideal for those looking to work in the front office of healthcare facilities.
CMAA-certified professionals handle tasks like scheduling appointments, maintaining patient records, billing, insurance verification, and greeting patients. This certification ensures competency in the smooth management of a healthcare facility’s front office.
CMAAs are commonly employed in clinics, hospitals, dental offices, and long-term care facilities. Their administrative expertise is critical for keeping patient flow and office operations running smoothly.
Like the CCMA, candidates for the CMAA exam typically need to complete a formal education program or have relevant experience. The test focuses on administrative functions and knowledge of medical office procedures.
Requirements for CMAA Certification
The Certified Medical Administrative Assistant (CMAA) certification, offered by the National Healthcareer Association (NHA), is designed for individuals seeking to work in administrative roles within the healthcare sector.
Here are the eligibility requirements:
- Candidates must be at least 18 years old
- A high school diploma or equivalent is mandatory
- Completion of a Medical Administrative Program
- Those with relevant work experience in a medical administrative setting may qualify without formal schooling.
CMAA Certification Exam
The CMAA exam evaluates knowledge related to administrative tasks within a healthcare setting. The structure of the exam is as follows:
The exam consists of 110 questions in total, with 100 scored and 10 pre-test (unscored) questions.
Exam Fee
The CMAA exam by NHA typically costs $160, but this fee may be included in the cost of some training programs.
Recertification
Just like other certifications from the NHA, the CMAA certification must be renewed every two years. The recertification process includes:
- Completion of at least 10 continuing education credits during each two-year period.
- The renewal fee is approximately $185.
- Failure to renew the certification could result in the expiration of your credential, requiring re-examination.
Why CCMA Certification Could be a Better Option?
Becoming a Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) offers numerous advantages for aspiring medical assistants.
Below are some key reasons why the CCMA certification could be a better option compared to other certifications:
#1 Hospitals are Accepting CCMA
Hospitals, outpatient clinics, and other healthcare facilities increasingly accept and prefer candidates with CCMA certification.
As healthcare providers grow in complexity, hospitals want to ensure that their medical assistants are certified through a widely recognized and trusted organization, like the National Healthcareer Association (NHA), which offers the CCMA credential.
The CCMA exam covers both clinical and administrative duties, making certified professionals well-rounded for various roles in the medical field.
#2 CCMA is Accepted Across the USA
The CCMA certification is recognized nationwide. This means that, unlike certain local or regional certifications, the CCMA credential allows you to work anywhere in the United States, providing greater flexibility and job mobility.
Whether you’re relocating or applying to a medical facility in another state, your certification will be valid and valued by employers.
#3 CCMA is a Popular Option Among Medical Assistants
The CCMA certification is one of the most popular and widely pursued certifications among medical assistants.
This popularity is due to its comprehensive exam that assesses skills in both clinical and administrative functions, making it appealing to a broad range of employers, from hospitals to private clinics.
The certification offers the chance to work in various healthcare settings, increasing your employability and career growth prospects.
#4 You Can Get Certified Faster
For individuals looking to quickly enter the healthcare field, the CCMA certification offers a streamlined path.
Many programs, especially online or self-paced options like Preppy’s Medical Assistant Program, allow you to complete the necessary training in as little as four to six months.
After training, you can sit for the exam and start applying for jobs in healthcare. This quick route to certification is ideal for those who want to begin their career without spending years in school.
So, choosing the CCMA certification provides numerous benefits, from wide acceptance in hospitals across the USA to faster certification times.
The certification’s popularity among medical assistants and its comprehensive nature make it an excellent choice for those seeking a flexible, rewarding career in healthcare.
How Do You Get the CCMA Medical Assistant Certification?
Becoming a Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) is an excellent way to enhance your career opportunities in the healthcare field.
Here is a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process:
Step 1 -> Meet the Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for the CCMA exam, you need to meet certain requirements, like getting a high school diploma or GED equivalent and completing a medical assistant training program that includes clinical and administrative components.
The training program can be through a vocational school, community college, or an online program such as Preppy’s Medical Assistant Program.
Preppy includes an externship, providing hands-on experience in a healthcare setting, and you could become CCMA exam-ready.
Plus, this program is affordable, self-paced, and you could finish in as little as 4 months.
We’ll discuss more about that later.
Step 2 -> Apply for the Exam
Once you have completed the eligibility requirements, you can apply for the CCMA exam. Applications can be submitted online through the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) website.
You will need:
- Personal information and proof of education.
- Complete documentation from your training program.
- Payment of the exam fee of $155.
Step 3 -> Prepare for the Exam
You can use study guides, take practice exams, and leverage resources provided by your training program to review for the exam. Some students take prep courses specifically designed to pass the CCMA exam.
Step 4 -> Take the CCMA Exam
The CCMA exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions, covering clinical, administrative, and general knowledge relevant to medical assisting. It is computer-based and usually offered at testing centers, though some online proctoring options are available.
Step 5 -> Get Your Certification
After successfully passing the exam, you will earn the Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) credential. You’ll receive your certification and can start applying for medical assistant positions. Keep in mind that this certification is highly regarded by healthcare employers.
Step 6 -> Recertify Periodically
The CCMA certification needs to be renewed every two years. To maintain your certification, you will need to complete 10 continuing education credits and pay a recertification fee. Staying certified ensures you remain current on industry standards and practices.
So, getting the CCMA certification is a straightforward process that begins with education and training, followed by exam preparation and certification. This credential is highly valued across healthcare settings, providing a strong foundation for a successful career as a medical assistant.
Introducing – Preppy’s Self-Paced Medical Assistant Training Program
Preppy’s Self-Paced Medical Assistant Training Program is an ideal choice for those looking to enter the medical field quickly and affordably.
Tailored for busy adults, the program emphasizes flexibility without compromising the quality of education.
Below is an overview of why Preppy’s program stands out for aspiring medical assistants.
100% Online and Self-Paced
One of the program’s key benefits is its fully online and self-paced format. This flexibility allows you to study at your convenience, whether balancing work, family, or other commitments.
You can advance through the material at your own pace, finishing as quickly or slowly as your schedule permits.
University Certificate of Completion
Upon successfully finishing the program, you will receive a certificate of completion from Auburn University, a respected institution known for its high standards in education.
This certificate can enhance your resume and help you stand out in job applications by signaling that you’ve been trained by a reputable university.
Externship Opportunity
Hands-on experience is vital in healthcare, and Preppy’s program offers an externship opportunity to complement your online learning.
This externship opportunity provides real-world training in healthcare environments, giving you practical skills that prepare you for the demands of the medical assistant role.
You Could Become CCMA Certification-Ready
The program is designed to provide quality education, as a result, you could become ready for the CCMA certification exam, which is widely recognized in the healthcare industry. Passing this exam will give you the credentials needed to begin your career with confidence.
Affordable Tuition
At a tuition cost of just $1,599, Preppy’s program offers an affordable alternative to traditional programs, which can cost anywhere from $7,000 to $40,000. By choosing Preppy, you avoid student loan debt while still receiving a comprehensive education that meets industry standards.
Faster Completion
Unlike traditional programs that may take up to two years, Preppy’s training could be completed in as little as four months, allowing you to enter the workforce faster. This accelerated timeline is perfect for those who want to start their healthcare careers as soon as possible.
24/7 Student Support
Preppy provides 24/7 support to ensure you have all the assistance you need throughout your learning journey. Whether you need help with coursework, technical support, or career advice, their team is available to guide you at any time.
So, if you want to become job-ready faster as a Medical Assistant at an affordable price, without driving to college or without a student loan, then check out Preppy’s Self-Paced Medical Assistant Training Program.
In Conclusion
While both CMAA and CCMA certifications can lead to fulfilling careers in the healthcare field, they offer distinct career paths.
CMAA is ideal for individuals interested in healthcare administration and working behind the scenes, while CCMA is better suited for those who wish to be involved in direct patient care.
Choosing between the two depends on whether your interests lie in administrative work or clinical practice, as well as your long-term career goals. Both certifications are valuable and provide entry into a growing field with strong job prospects.
Lastly, if you want to become job-ready faster as a Medical Assistant and become ready for CCMA certification at an affordable price, then check out Preppy’s Self-Paced Medical Assistant Training Program.
Also Read:
-> The Fastest Way to Become a Medical Assistant
-> How to Get Medical Assistant Training With a Full-Time Job
About:
Preppy was founded by higher education expert, Grant Aldrich, whose work on college affordability and accessibility has been featured in Forbes, Bloomberg Businessweek, Business Insider, American Express, AOL, MSN, Thrive Global, Reader’s Digest, Inside Higher Ed, Evolllution, EducationDive, and nearly 100 radio shows and podcasts.
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