If you want to start a career in medical assisting, then you must get certified. For that, you need to have a clear idea of the eligibility, requirements, and various other things regarding a certification.
Earning a certification in medical assisting demonstrates a commitment to excellence in healthcare, opening doors to a range of rewarding positions and advancement options.
So, in this article, we’ll discuss everything about medical assistant certifications, from their eligibility requirements and exam details to exam fees and much more.
Moreover, we’ll also share a step-by-step guide to help you understand how to take the most efficient route to certification.
Plus, we’ll talk about a medical assistant program that could make you certified faster, at an affordable price, without driving to college and without student loan debt.
So, let’s get started.
Medical Assistant Certifications
A medical assistant certification is a credential that verifies a medical assistant’s knowledge, skills, and competency in their role.
Certifications are typically awarded by professional organizations upon passing an exam and meeting eligibility requirements.
Becoming certified can open doors to a variety of healthcare environments, including hospitals, clinics, and outpatient facilities.
It can greatly enhance job prospects, increase earning potential, and showcase specialized expertise.
CCMA Certification Requirements
The Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) certification, issued by the National Healthcareer Association (NHA), validates a medical assistant’s qualifications in clinical and administrative tasks. It is the most widely recognized certification in medical assisting.
The CCMA certification is well-regarded in the healthcare industry, as many employers prefer CCMA-certified candidates.
To pursue the CCMA certification, candidates typically need to complete an accredited training program or possess relevant work experience, meeting the eligibility criteria for the exam.
Eligibility Requirements for CCMA
Becoming a Certified Clinical Medical Assistant requires specific prerequisites to ensure that candidates have a solid foundation in medical assisting.
Eligibility Through Education
The primary pathway to CCMA certification requires candidates to hold a high school diploma or GED and complete an accredited medical assistant program.
These programs, available through community colleges, technical schools, or online platforms, offer comprehensive training in both clinical and administrative skills, including patient care, medical record management, and medical equipment use.
Online programs, often self-paced, are a popular choice due to their flexible schedules and quick completion timelines, which can allow candidates to prepare for the CCMA exam within 6-8 months.
Eligibility Through Experience
Individuals with relevant work experience may also qualify for the CCMA exam, even without formal training.
Candidates should have at least one year of full-time experience as a medical assistant within the past three years, covering both clinical and administrative duties, such as patient care, EKG monitoring, and records management.
Documented proof of experience is required, typically verified by an employer. This route is ideal for those who have on-the-job training but lack an official certification.
Eligibility Through Military Service
Military veterans who served in healthcare-related roles may also qualify for the CCMA exam. Experience in military healthcare roles, which involve patient care and medical procedures, often aligns well with civilian medical assistant duties, making these candidates eligible without additional training.
CCMA Exam Structure and Details
The CCMA exam, offered by the NHA, is a comprehensive assessment designed to test the skills and knowledge necessary for medical assistants to effectively perform clinical and administrative duties.
The exam covers essential topics, such as patient preparation, medication administration, vital signs, and phlebotomy. Other sections test administrative knowledge, like medical records management, appointment scheduling, and understanding medical laws and ethics.
Exam Format
The CCMA exam contains 180 questions, of which 150 are scored and 30 are unscored pre-test questions used to refine future exams. Candidates must complete the test within three hours, providing a time-pressured evaluation of their knowledge and practical abilities.
Passing Score
A passing score is 390 out of 500, ensuring candidates possess a solid understanding of both the clinical and administrative competencies required in healthcare settings.
By successfully passing the CCMA exam, medical assistants earn a certification that is widely recognized and valued by employers, supporting their career advancement in various healthcare environments.
Exam Cost
The CCMA exam costs $165, though some training programs may include this fee within their tuition, potentially easing financial strain for students.
Recertification
Once you pass the exam and receive your CCMA certification, you must renew it every two years. If your CCMA certification remains unrenewed for more than two years, it will become invalid, requiring you to retake the CCMA exam.
To renew your CCMA certification, follow this two-step process:
- Complete 10 continuing education (CE) credits
- Complete your renewal payment of $185.
Retaking the CCMA Exam
If, unfortunately, you couldn’t pass the CCMA exam on the first attempt, don’t worry, there are 2 more opportunities available.
If you do not succeed after the second attempt, you will need to re-register and can take the exam again 30 days later.
If you still don’t pass on your third attempt, you may re-register and retake the exam after a year for each subsequent attempt.
RMA Certification Requirements
The RMA license offered by AMT is specifically designed for medical assistants who have completed the required education and training and wish to prove their competence in clinical and administrative tasks.
The RMA certification is nationally recognized, validating your skills and knowledge in the field.
Eligibility for RMA Certification
To be eligible for the RMA (Registered Medical Assistant) certification by AMT, candidates must meet one of the following criteria:
Graduate from an Accredited Institution
You must have completed a medical assistant program that is accredited, or through an institution that is accredited.
This means that the Medical Assistant program may not be independently accredited, but it must be part of a larger institution, such as a college or a university that holds accreditation.
The other requirement is to complete the externship of a minimum of 160 hours of real-world clinical or administrative experience in a healthcare setting, such as a clinic, hospital, or doctor’s office.
Eligibility through Work Experience
You can qualify with 3 years of recent full-time work experience as a medical assistant performing both clinical and administrative duties with a minimum of 36 work hours per week.
Eligibility through Military Training
Military veterans who served in healthcare-related roles may also qualify for the RMA exam without additional training.
RMA Exam Details
The RMA exam consists of approximately 210 multiple-choice questions that assess various areas of knowledge, including:
- Anatomy and physiology
- Administrative Medical Assisting
- Clinical Procedural Tasks
- Clinical Patient Interaction
While taking the exam, candidates have a 2-hour time limit to complete it. The exam is administered in a computer-based format at designated testing centers across the U.S.
Exam Fee and Scheduling
To register for the RMA exam, you must complete an application on the AMT website and pay a non-refundable fee of $150.
After your application is approved, you will receive confirmation and further instructions on how to schedule your exam.
If you are taking the exam through your school, your instructor will provide all necessary scheduling details.
For those taking the exam at a Pearson VUE testing center, you’ll need to schedule your exam appointment either online or by phone with Pearson.
Passing the RMA Exam
To pass the RMA exam, you need to correctly answer at least 147 out of the 210 multiple-choice questions, which equates to a minimum passing score of 70%.
Retaking the RMA exam
If you don’t pass the exam or are unsatisfied with your score, you have the option to retake it.
However, note that you must wait at least 45 days from your initial attempt before re-testing.
To retake the exam, you’ll need to submit a retake form along with the re-testing fee of $110. Additionally, you are allowed a maximum of four attempts to pass the exam.
Recertification
To maintain your RMA status, you need to complete 30 Certification Continuing Program (CCP) points every three years and need to pay an annual fee of $75.
This ensures that RMAs remain current with the latest developments and advancements in medical assisting.
NCMA Certification Requirements
A National Certified Medical Assistant (NCMA) is a healthcare professional who has obtained certification through the National Center for Competency Testing (NCCT).
Here’s a breakdown of the eligibility requirements:
Eligibility through Education
This is the fastest and most direct route to becoming NCMA-certified, ideal for individuals who have completed a formal medical assistant training program.
Candidates must graduate from an NCCT-approved or accredited medical assistant program, which typically includes comprehensive coursework in both clinical and administrative aspects of medical assisting.
These programs are often found at community colleges, vocational schools, and some universities. These educational programs usually last between 9 months to 2 years, depending on whether it’s a diploma, certificate, or associate degree.
Eligibility through Experience
For individuals who did not complete a formal training program, experience in the field can still qualify them for the NCMA certification.
Candidates who have been working as medical assistants for at least two years full-time (or equivalent part-time) within the past five years are eligible.
This experience must be verifiable and demonstrate proficiency in both administrative and clinical duties.
Eligibility through Military Service
The NCMA certification is also open to veterans or active military personnel who have received medical assistant training during their service.
Those who have completed medical assisting programs as part of their military duties are eligible to apply for the NCMA certification.
NCMA Exam Structure and Details
The NCMA exam is a comprehensive computer-based test with a combination of multiple-choice questions (MCQs). Candidates have approximately 3 hours to complete the exam.
There are typically 150 scored questions, along with a few unscored pretest questions included in the test.
The NCMA exam is available throughout the year and can be scheduled at designated testing centers or online.
Exam Fee
The cost of the NCMA exam can vary depending on the route through which a candidate is applying:
For students or recent graduates of an NCCT-authorized program: The exam fee is generally around $90.
For applicants through the work experience route or military service: The exam fee is approximately $135.
This fee includes the cost of the exam and initial certification if passed, but retake fees or additional charges may apply for other services.
Passing Score
The NCMA exam requires a minimum passing score of 70%. This is a standardized score based on the total number of questions answered correctly, meaning candidates need to have a firm grasp of the various topics covered in the exam to pass.
Recertification
Successfully passing the NCMA exam grants certification, which is valid for two years and must be maintained through continuing education or recertification exams.
CMA Certification Requirements
The Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) certification is awarded by the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA).
The CMA certification demonstrates a medical assistant’s proficiency in clinical and administrative skills, aligning with the standards and demands of modern healthcare.
CMA Certification Eligibility
To earn the CMA, candidates must meet specific eligibility criteria, pass a comprehensive exam, and maintain their credentials through recertification.
Eligibility Through Education
Eligibility for the CMA exam primarily involves educational requirements. To qualify, candidates must graduate from a medical assisting program accredited by the CAAHEP or ABHES.
Some pathways may also require a certain amount of practical experience, though new graduates are typically eligible directly upon completion of their accredited program.
CMA Exam Structure and Details
The application and examination process is straightforward but requires attention to detail. Once eligibility is confirmed, candidates can apply for the exam through the AAMA.
The CMA exam includes multiple-choice questions covering general, administrative, and clinical medical assistant knowledge, ensuring a well-rounded assessment of the candidate’s capabilities.
Exam Fee
Exam fees vary based on membership status, with AAMA members needing to pay an application fee of $125, while others pay $250.
After applying, candidates receive details about scheduling their exams at an approved testing center.
Recertification
CMA certification remains valid for five years, after which recertification is required to keep the credential active.
To recertify, AAMA members need to pay an application fee of $125, and if your certification has expired, you need to pay an additional fee of $50. To recertify, you either need to retake the CMA exam or earn continuing education credits.
This requirement ensures that certified medical assistants stay up-to-date with industry standards and advancements, maintaining their competence in the field.
Now, you could be wondering –
Which Certification Could Be the Better Choice?
Well, earning the Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) credential can offer distinct advantages for aspiring medical assistants.
Here’s why the CCMA certification might stand out as a superior option:
#1 Widely Accepted by Hospitals
CCMA-certified professionals are increasingly preferred by hospitals, outpatient clinics, and healthcare facilities nationwide.
Employers trust certifications like the CCMA from the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) due to its comprehensive coverage of both clinical and administrative skills, ensuring candidates are prepared for versatile roles in medical settings.
#2 Nationwide Recognition
The CCMA certification is accepted across the United States, making it a great option for those seeking flexibility and mobility in their career.
Unlike certifications that may be limited to specific regions, the CCMA credential allows you to work anywhere, making it ideal for medical assistants planning to relocate or apply to out-of-state healthcare facilities.
#3 A Top Choice Among Medical Assistants
The CCMA is one of the most popular certifications in the field, thanks to its balanced focus on clinical and administrative expertise.
This broad appeal makes CCMA-certified medical assistants highly desirable to a variety of employers, from hospitals to private practices, increasing job opportunities and career growth.
#4 Faster Path to Certification
If you want to enter the healthcare industry quickly, the CCMA certification offers a streamlined option.
With self-paced programs like Preppy’s Medical Assistant Program, you can complete your training in as little as 4-6 months, take the certification exam, and start applying for jobs shortly after.
This makes it an attractive choice for individuals looking to fast-track their careers.
So, by choosing the CCMA certification, you’re opting for a credential that is widely recognized, respected, and versatile. The CCMA stands out as a leading choice for aspiring medical assistants looking to build a rewarding career in healthcare.
How to Get Certified as a Medical Assistant Faster?
Pursuing certification as a Medical Assistant is an excellent step for those interested in a healthcare career focused on patient care and administrative responsibilities.
Here’s a step-by-step to help you understand how to take the most efficient route to certification:
Step 1 -> Get a High School Diploma
To start, you’ll need a high school diploma or GED. High school courses in biology, health, and mathematics provide a helpful foundation for medical assisting.
Step 2 -> Enroll in a Medical Assistant Program
Once you have your high school diploma, the next step is to enroll in a medical assistant program.
Medical assistant programs can be found at community colleges, technical schools, or online institutions, with varying time commitments and costs.
These are often more expensive and can take up to two years to complete. While they offer comprehensive training, they may not be ideal for adult learners or those with other commitments.
If you’re looking for a more flexible, faster, and affordable option, online medical assistant programs are ideal.
They allow students to complete coursework at their own pace and are designed to be adult-friendly, making it easier to manage work, family, and studies.
One standout online option is Preppy’s Self-Paced Medical Assistant Training Program, which is both affordable and convenient.
Here are some of Preppy’s key features:
- You can complete the program according to your own schedule, making it perfect for working adults or students with other commitments.
- The program costs only $1599, significantly lower than many traditional programs, and you can complete it in as little as 6 months.
- Preppy could also help you secure an externship opportunity in your local area, giving you hands-on experience.
- The program could make you ready for the CCMA exam by the NHA, which is one of the most recognized certifications in the industry.
- You’ll earn a certificate of completion from the highly reputable, 150-year-old Auburn University, an accredited, non-profit institution.
- Plus, you get 24/7 support for both technical and course-related queries.
- Lastly, if you enroll in our program, there’s a bonus where you can get a free laptop, and that’s yours to keep even after completion of your program.
So, if you want to become a certified medical assistant faster, at an affordable price, without driving to college and without student loan debt, then consider checking out Preppy’s Self-Paced Medical Assistant Training Program.
Step 3 -> Complete the Coursework
Enrolling in a program is just the start; completing the coursework is key. Topics generally include anatomy, physiology, medical terminology, patient care procedures, billing, and coding.
A self-paced program like Preppy’s allows for faster completion, typically in as little as six months, although you can adjust based on your schedule.
Step 4 -> Go for an Externship
Hands-on experience is crucial, and most programs include an externship to help students gain real-world experience in a healthcare setting.
A medical assistant externship enables you to apply classroom knowledge practically, offering networking opportunities and sometimes leading to full-time positions post-completion.
Step 5 -> Prepare and Get Certified
The final step is to prepare for and pass a certification exam, such as the Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) exam by the NHA.
While certification is not legally required in every state, holding a credential like the CCMA demonstrates professionalism and improves job prospects and earning potential.
Certification as a medical assistant provides a competitive advantage and solidifies your commitment to your new career.
With proper preparation, dedication, and support from a reputable training program, you’ll be well-equipped to begin a successful career in healthcare as a certified medical assistant.
In Conclusion
We hope this article could enlighten you about the different types of popular nationally recognized medical assistant certifications and how you can get certified faster.
However, choosing a certification depends on your career goals, whether you seek to specialize in clinical or administrative functions, or gain a versatile credential, like a CCMA, which is recognized by most healthcare employers.
Ultimately, if you want to become a CCMA-certified medical assistant faster, at an affordable price, without driving to college and without student loan debt, then you could check out Preppy’s Self-Paced Medical Assistant Training Program.
Also Read: Is a Medical Assistant Career Recession-Proof?
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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