Certified Medical Assistant Certifications

Explore the top Certified Medical Assistant certifications that are important to a successful career.

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Getting Certified as a Certified Medical Assistant

In the fast-paced and ever-evolving healthcare industry, becoming a Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) is a significant milestone that underscores your commitment to excellence and patient care. Certification serves as a hallmark of proficiency, assuring employers and patients alike of your skills and dedication to adhering to the highest standards of medical practice.

This guide offers a comprehensive overview of the certification landscape for Certified Medical Assistants, providing you with the insights needed to select the certification that best aligns with your professional goals and the needs of the healthcare community. Whether you are embarking on a new career or seeking to enhance your credentials, understanding the nuances of CMA certifications is a critical step in advancing your role in the vital field of healthcare.

Top Certified Medical Assistant Certifications

Certified Medical Assistant (CMA)
American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA)
National Certified Medical Assistant (NCMA)
National Center for Competency Testing (NCCT)
Certified Medical Administrative Assistant (CMAA)
National Healthcareer Association (NHA)
Medical Assistant Certification (MAC)
American Medical Certification Association (AMCA)
Certified EKG Technician (CET)
National Healthcareer Association (NHA)
Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT)
National Healthcareer Association (NHA)
Certified Patient Care Technician/Assistant (CPCT/A)
National Healthcareer Association (NHA)
Certified Medical Office Manager (CMOM)
Practice Management Institute (PMI)
Registered Medical Assistant (RMA)
American Medical Technologists (AMT)
Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA)
National Healthcareer Association (NHA)

Best Certified Medical Assistant Certifications

Certified Medical Assistant (CMA)

Certification Provider
American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA)
Best For
Medical Assistants, Clinical Assistants, Healthcare Support Staff, Medical Office Assistants, Medical Administrative Assistants, Recent Graduates of Medical Assisting Programs
Description
The Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) credential, conferred by the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA), is a prestigious certification for medical assistants. It validates the holder's expertise in clinical and administrative tasks, ensuring a high standard of patient care. To earn the CMA, candidates must pass a rigorous examination that covers a broad spectrum of medical knowledge and skills. This certification is widely recognized and often required by healthcare employers, signifying a professional commitment to excellence in the medical assisting field.
Includes Certification
Yes
Time to Complete
Price
$125 - $250
Prerequisites
  • Completion of a medical assisting program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) or the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES).
  • Recent graduate or will be graduating soon from the qualifying medical assisting program.
  • If not a recent graduate, must have graduated from the program within the past 36 months.
  • Submission of a completed CMA Certification/Recertification Examination application.
  • Payment of the examination fee.
  • Agreement to comply with the AAMA Code of Ethics and the AAMA Medical Assistant Creed.

    • National Certified Medical Assistant (NCMA)

    Certification Provider
    National Center for Competency Testing (NCCT)
    Best For
    Medical Assistant, Certified Clinical Medical Assistant, Medical Office Assistant, Medical Administrative Assistant, Medical Assistant with Clinical Focus, Medical Assistant with Administrative Duties
    Description
    The National Certified Medical Assistant (NCMA) certification, offered by the National Center for Competency Testing (NCCT), is a credential that validates an individual's expertise in medical assisting. It focuses on a range of competencies including clinical, administrative, and patient communication skills. Candidates must pass a rigorous exam that covers medical procedures, pharmacology, medical office management, and patient care. This certification is designed for those seeking to enhance their credibility and career prospects in the medical assisting field.
    Includes Certification
    Yes
    Time to Complete
    Price
    Prerequisites
  • Completion of a medical assistant program accredited by either the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) or the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES) within the past five years.
  • OR a minimum of two years of full-time employment or equivalent (4,160 hours) as a medical assistant practitioner within the past five years.
  • High school diploma or GED equivalent.
  • Submission of a current CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) card.
  • Payment of the examination fee.
  • Agreement to abide by the NCCT Code of Ethics.

    • Certified Medical Administrative Assistant (CMAA)

    Certification Provider
    National Healthcareer Association (NHA)
    Best For
    Medical Administrative Assistant, Medical Office Assistant, Medical Secretary, Health Unit Coordinator, Medical Receptionist, Medical Office Manager
    Description
    The Certified Medical Administrative Assistant (CMAA) credential, offered by the National Healthcareer Association (NHA), is a professional certification for individuals seeking to establish expertise in medical administrative tasks. This certification emphasizes the importance of patient privacy, understanding of healthcare documentation, scheduling, and billing processes. It is designed for those aiming to excel in administrative support roles within clinics, hospitals, and other healthcare facilities. Earning the CMAA demonstrates a commitment to the field and a readiness to uphold the efficiency and integrity of healthcare administration.
    Includes Certification
    Yes
    Time to Complete
    Price
    $117
    Prerequisites
  • High school diploma or equivalent educational diploma (e.g., a GED or foreign diploma).
  • Completion of a medical administrative assistant training program within the last 5 years, which includes a minimum of 720 hours of instruction and a hands-on externship or clinical component. Alternatively, one year of supervised work experience in the medical administrative field within the last three years if a training program was not completed.
  • Submission of an application to the NHA and payment of the certification examination fee.
  • A detailed understanding of healthcare documentation, scheduling, billing, and coding processes.
  • Knowledge of patient privacy laws and the ability to maintain confidentiality (HIPAA compliance).
  • Agreement to adhere to the NHA's Certification Candidate Handbook policies and procedures.

    • Medical Assistant Certification (MAC)

    Certification Provider
    American Medical Certification Association (AMCA)
    Best For
    Certified Medical Assistant, Medical Office Assistant, Clinical Assistant, Medical Administrative Assistant, Entry-Level Medical Assistants, Medical Assistants seeking formal recognition and career advancement
    Description
    The Medical Assistant Certification (MAC) offered by the American Medical Certification Association (AMCA) is a credential that validates the expertise and skills of professionals in medical assisting. This certification focuses on a range of competencies necessary for effective patient care and administrative duties within healthcare settings. Candidates are tested on their knowledge of medical terminology, clinical procedures, patient relations, and administrative practices. Achieving the MAC demonstrates a commitment to the field and can enhance employment opportunities for individuals seeking to advance their career in medical assistance.
    Includes Certification
    Yes
    Time to Complete
    Price
    $139
    Prerequisites
  • High school diploma or equivalent (GED)
  • Completion of a medical assistant training program accredited by the ABHES or the CAAHEP, or a post-secondary medical assisting program within the last 4 years
  • Alternatively, a minimum of 1 year of supervised work experience as a medical assistant within the last 3 years if the candidate has not completed an accredited program
  • Submission of an application with the required fee to the AMCA
  • Agreement to abide by the AMCA's Code of Ethics
  • Passing the Medical Assistant Certification (MAC) examination

    • Certified EKG Technician (CET)

    Certification Provider
    National Healthcareer Association (NHA)
    Best For
    EKG Technicians, Cardiac Monitor Technicians, Telemetry Technicians, Medical Assistants with a focus on cardiology, Cardiovascular Technologists, Healthcare Professionals transitioning to cardiac care
    Description
    The Certified EKG Technician (CET) credential, offered by the National Healthcareer Association (NHA), is a professional certification for healthcare professionals specializing in electrocardiogram (EKG) technology. This certification validates an individual's expertise in performing EKGs, interpreting cardiac rhythms, understanding heart anatomy, and managing patient care. CET holders are recognized for their technical proficiency and their ability to provide critical support in cardiac care settings. The certification process includes education, experience, and a comprehensive examination, ensuring that certified technicians are well-equipped to contribute to patient diagnostics and treatment.
    Includes Certification
    Yes
    Time to Complete
    Price
    $117
    Prerequisites
  • High school diploma or equivalent educational diploma (e.g., a GED).
  • Completion of a training program or one year of work experience in the field of EKG technology.
  • Submission of a CET exam application through the National Healthcareer Association (NHA).
  • Payment of the examination fee.
  • Achievement of a passing score on the CET certification examination.
  • Maintenance of certification through continuing education as required by the NHA.

    • Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT)

    Certification Provider
    National Healthcareer Association (NHA)
    Best For
    Phlebotomy Technicians, Medical Assistants with phlebotomy duties, Laboratory Technicians with specimen collection roles, Healthcare Professionals transitioning to phlebotomy, New healthcare graduates seeking specialization, Allied Health Students with phlebotomy curriculum
    Description
    The Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT) certification, offered by the National Healthcareer Association (NHA), is a credential that validates an individual's expertise in phlebotomy, the practice of drawing blood for diagnostic testing, transfusions, and blood donation. This certification focuses on ensuring proficiency in safety procedures, proper patient identification, specimen handling, and processing. It also assesses the candidate's knowledge of anatomy, phlebotomy equipment, and interpersonal skills necessary for patient interaction. Obtaining the CPT certification involves completing a training program and passing a comprehensive exam, signifying a professional's commitment to high standards in phlebotomy services.
    Includes Certification
    Yes
    Time to Complete
    Price
    $117
    Prerequisites
  • High school diploma or equivalent educational diploma (e.g., a GED or foreign diploma).
  • Completion of a phlebotomy training program within the last 5 years, which includes successfully performing a minimum of 30 venipunctures and 10 capillary sticks on live individuals.
  • Alternatively, one year of part-time or full-time work experience as a phlebotomy technician within the past three years if a training program was not completed.
  • Submission of a Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT) Certification Application to the NHA.
  • Payment of the certification examination fee.
  • Passing the NHA's Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT) examination.

    • Certified Patient Care Technician/Assistant (CPCT/A)

    Certification Provider
    National Healthcareer Association (NHA)
    Best For
    Patient Care Technicians, Nursing Assistants, Medical Assistants, EKG Technicians, Phlebotomy Technicians, Healthcare Professionals with entry-level experience
    Description
    The Certified Patient Care Technician/Assistant (CPCT/A) credential, offered by the National Healthcareer Association (NHA), is designed for healthcare professionals who seek to demonstrate expertise in patient care. This certification validates the holder's ability to perform a range of duties, including basic medical tasks, EKG monitoring, and phlebotomy, while also emphasizing the importance of soft skills such as communication and empathy. Acquiring the CPCT/A demonstrates a commitment to patient-centered care and can enhance employment opportunities in various healthcare settings.
    Includes Certification
    Yes
    Time to Complete
    Price
    $155
    Prerequisites
  • High school diploma or equivalent educational diploma (e.g., a GED).
  • Completion of a Patient Care Technician program from an accredited institution, which includes both classroom and clinical experience.
  • Successful completion of the NHA CPCT/A exam.
  • Submission of a CPCT/A Certification Application to the NHA, including the required fee.
  • Proof of performing a minimum number of supervised patient care hours, as specified by the NHA.
  • Maintenance of certification through continuing education as required by the NHA to ensure ongoing competency.

    • Certified Medical Office Manager (CMOM)

    Certification Provider
    Practice Management Institute (PMI)
    Best For
    Medical Office Manager, Practice Administrator, Healthcare Office Supervisor, Medical Practice Manager, Clinic Operations Manager, Medical Administrative Coordinator
    Description
    The Certified Medical Office Manager (CMOM) certification, offered by the Practice Management Institute (PMI), is a prestigious credential that equips individuals with the expertise to efficiently manage medical offices. It focuses on developing core competencies in healthcare office management, including regulatory compliance, medical billing, staff management, and health information systems. This certification is designed for aspiring or current managers seeking to enhance their leadership skills and operational knowledge to effectively oversee medical practice operations.
    Includes Certification
    Yes
    Time to Complete
    Price
    Prerequisites
  • A minimum of one year of experience in a healthcare office management role or a similar position is recommended.
  • Understanding of basic medical office functions, including billing, coding, healthcare law, and compliance.
  • High school diploma or equivalent; some employers may prefer an associate's or bachelor's degree in a related field.
  • Completion of the CMOM course or program offered by the Practice Management Institute (PMI).
  • Passing the CMOM certification exam administered by PMI.
  • Membership with the Practice Management Institute may be required to access resources and take the certification exam.

    • Registered Medical Assistant (RMA)

    Certification Provider
    American Medical Technologists (AMT)
    Best For
    Medical Assistant, Clinical Medical Assistant, Medical Office Assistant, Medical Assistant Instructor, Certified Medical Assistant (CMA), Medical Administrative Assistant
    Description
    The Registered Medical Assistant (RMA) certification, offered by the American Medical Technologists (AMT), validates the skills and knowledge of medical assistants in healthcare settings. This credential ensures that RMAs are proficient in administrative and clinical tasks, patient communication, and compliance with healthcare regulations. To earn the RMA certification, candidates must pass a comprehensive exam and meet specific educational and work experience requirements, demonstrating their capability to effectively support healthcare professionals and enhance patient care.
    Includes Certification
    Yes
    Time to Complete
    Price
    Prerequisites
  • Completion of a medical assistant program accredited by the ABHES or the CAAHEP, or a post-secondary medical assisting program approved by the U.S. Department of Education, with at least 720 hours of instruction including a clinical externship.
  • Work experience as a medical assistant for a minimum of 5 years, with no more than 2 years of which may be as an instructor in a post-secondary medical assistant program.
  • Passing a generalist medical assistant certification examination through another recognized certifying body, along with 3 out of the last 5 years of work experience as a medical assistant instructor in a post-secondary medical assistant program.
  • Current status as a Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) through the AAMA, or as a National Certified Medical Assistant (NCMA) through the NCCT, or as a Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) through the NHA, or as a National Registered Certified Medical Assistant (NRCMA) through the NAHP.
  • For recent graduates, application for the RMA exam must be within four years of graduation from the program.
  • Submission of a completed application for the RMA certification exam, including the required fee.

    • Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA)

    Certification Provider
    National Healthcareer Association (NHA)
    Best For
    Medical Assistant, Clinical Medical Assistant, Medical Office Assistant, Patient Care Technician, Medical Support Assistant, Healthcare Assistant with clinical experience
    Description
    The Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) certification, offered by the National Healthcareer Association (NHA), is a nationally recognized credential that validates the expertise of medical assistants in clinical tasks. It focuses on essential skills such as patient care, EKG and phlebotomy procedures, preparing and administering medications, and assisting with minor surgeries. Earning the CCMA demonstrates a commitment to the field, proficiency in clinical practices, and readiness to support healthcare teams in providing quality patient care.
    Includes Certification
    Yes
    Time to Complete
    Price
    $155
    Prerequisites
  • High school diploma or equivalent educational diploma (e.g., a GED).
  • Completion of a medical assistant training program within the last 5 years, which includes a minimum of 160 hours of clinical externship.
  • OR a minimum of 1 year of supervised work experience as a medical assistant within the last 3 years if the candidate has not completed a training program.
  • Submission of a current government-issued photo ID for identity verification purposes.
  • Payment of the certification examination fee.
  • Achievement of a passing score on the CCMA certification exam.

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    Benefits of Having a Certified Medical Assistant Certification

    Professional Validation and Trust: Achieving a Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) certification is a powerful declaration of your proficiency and dedication to the healthcare profession. It assures employers, colleagues, and patients that you meet nationally recognized standards for knowledge and competence in medical assisting. This certification fosters trust and can enhance the quality of patient care you are entrusted with.

    Expanded Job Opportunities: In the competitive field of healthcare, a CMA certification can be the key to unlocking a broader range of employment prospects. Many healthcare providers prefer or require certification, viewing it as a benchmark of professionalism and commitment to the field. This credential can set you apart from non-certified counterparts and provide access to more desirable positions.

    Higher Earning Potential: Certified Medical Assistants often have a financial edge over their non-certified peers. The certification can be a significant factor in salary negotiations, as it demonstrates a validated skill set that employers are willing to compensate for. Investing in certification can, therefore, lead to a tangible return in the form of higher wages.

    Continuous Professional Development: The journey to becoming a Certified Medical Assistant involves rigorous study and examination, ensuring that you are well-versed in the latest healthcare practices and technologies. Moreover, maintaining certification typically requires ongoing education, which encourages a career-long pursuit of knowledge and excellence in patient care.

    Enhanced Career Mobility: With a CMA certification, you are not just securing your current job position but also paving the way for future career advancement. This credential can be a stepping stone to further educational opportunities and career paths within healthcare, such as nursing or healthcare administration, providing a clear pathway for professional growth.

    Networking and Professional Community: Becoming a Certified Medical Assistant grants you access to a community of professionals with similar credentials. This network can be an invaluable resource for sharing best practices, finding mentorship opportunities, and staying informed about industry developments. Engaging with this community can lead to career support and opportunities that might otherwise be inaccessible.

    Personal Satisfaction and Empowerment: Earning your CMA certification is a significant personal achievement that can boost your self-esteem and confidence in your professional abilities. It is a testament to your commitment to providing the highest level of care to patients and can instill a sense of pride and fulfillment in your work, knowing that you have met rigorous industry standards.

    How to Choose the Best Certified Medical Assistant Certification

    Choosing the right certification as a Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) is a pivotal step in enhancing your professional capabilities and opening doors to advanced career opportunities. The healthcare industry is diverse and constantly evolving, making it essential for CMAs to select certifications that not only validate their expertise but also position them for growth in their desired career path. This section provides strategic advice to help you navigate the myriad of certification options and select the one that best aligns with your professional development and career aspirations.
    • Identify Specialization and Scope: Reflect on the areas of healthcare you are most passionate about and consider certifications that specialize in that scope. Whether it's a focus on pediatrics, geriatrics, or medical coding, choosing a certification that aligns with your interests can lead to a more fulfilling career and make you a valuable asset to employers in that niche.
    • Evaluate the Impact on Patient Care: As a CMA, your primary role is to support patient care. Look for certifications that enhance your ability to contribute to positive patient outcomes. Certifications that provide advanced clinical skills or knowledge in areas such as phlebotomy, EKG, or patient education can directly improve the quality of care you deliver.
    • Consider the Competitiveness of the Credential: Research how certain certifications may give you a competitive edge in the job market. Some credentials are more recognized and sought after by employers. Obtaining such certifications can distinguish you from other candidates and may lead to higher pay or more advanced positions.
    • Assess the Continuing Education Opportunities: Healthcare is a field that requires lifelong learning. Choose certifications that offer or require continuing education units (CEUs) to keep your knowledge and skills up-to-date. This not only ensures that you remain compliant with certification requirements but also demonstrates your commitment to professional growth.
    • Review Certification Prerequisites and Maintenance: Before committing to a certification, understand the prerequisites and what is required to maintain the certification over time. Some may require a certain level of experience, additional coursework, or periodic recertification exams. Ensure that you are willing and able to meet these requirements before proceeding.

    Preparing for Your Certified Medical Assistant Certification

    Preparing for a Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) certification is a significant step in advancing your healthcare career. This certification not only validates your skills and knowledge but also opens doors to better job opportunities and potentially higher pay. To ensure success, a strategic and thoughtful approach to your preparation is essential. The following guidelines are designed to help you navigate the study process effectively, retain important information, and apply your knowledge in a clinical setting, ultimately leading you to excel in your certification exam and future role as a CMA.

    Understand the Certification Requirements: Begin by familiarizing yourself with the specific requirements of the CMA certification you're pursuing. Each certifying body may have different prerequisites, exam topics, and recertification processes. Understanding these details will help you focus your preparation efforts on meeting the exact criteria and give you a clear roadmap of what to expect during the certification journey.

    Develop a Comprehensive Study Schedule: Organize your study materials and create a detailed study schedule that outlines what you need to learn and when. Divide the content into manageable sections and assign time slots for each topic, ensuring a balanced approach that covers both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. Incorporate regular intervals for revision and self-assessment to track your progress and identify areas that need more attention.

    Utilize Official Study Resources and Practice Tests: Make use of the official study guides and practice tests provided by the certifying organization. These resources are tailored to the certification exam and will give you an accurate idea of the format and types of questions you can expect. Regular practice with these materials can greatly enhance your confidence and improve your test-taking abilities.

    Engage with the Medical Assistant Community: Connect with other medical assistants who are also preparing for certification or those who have recently become certified. Joining study groups, participating in forums, and attending relevant workshops can provide you with support, motivation, and additional insights into the certification process. Learning from the experiences of others can also offer valuable tips and strategies for success.

    Apply Knowledge Through Clinical Practice: Whenever possible, apply the theoretical knowledge you gain to hands-on clinical practice. Whether through simulations, volunteer work, or your current healthcare position, practical application reinforces learning and helps you understand how to implement best practices in a real-world environment. This experiential learning is crucial for developing the competence and confidence required to excel as a Certified Medical Assistant.

    Certification FAQs for Certified Medical Assistants

    Is getting a Certified Medical Assistant certification worth it?

    Achieving a Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) certification can be a significant career asset. For newcomers, it validates your skills, provides essential medical knowledge, and can be a critical requirement for many healthcare employers. For those already in the field, it's a testament to your expertise and dedication to the profession, potentially leading to better job prospects, higher salaries, and advancement opportunities.

    In a healthcare environment that increasingly values certification, a CMA can set you apart, demonstrating to employers your commitment to the highest standards of patient care and professional conduct. It's a clear investment in your future within the medical assisting profession.

    Do you need a certification to get a job as a Certified Medical Assistant?

    In the field of healthcare, certification for a Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) is often a clear-cut requirement rather than an optional advantage. Many employers mandate certification as it demonstrates a recognized level of competence and adherence to industry standards.

    Achieving certification from an accredited program, such as those offered by the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA) or the National Healthcareer Association (NHA), can be essential for not only landing a job but also for ensuring patient safety and effective clinical operations. While on-the-job training and experience are valuable, certification is a critical step for those looking to establish a career as a Certified Medical Assistant.

    Can Certified Medical Assistant certifications help pivoters make the transition into Healthcare from another career path?

    Yes, Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) certifications can be a significant asset for those transitioning from another career into healthcare. These certifications provide comprehensive training on clinical and administrative duties, essential in a medical setting. They validate your skills to employers, showing a dedication to the profession and a readiness to handle the responsibilities of patient care. Additionally, the process of certification offers networking opportunities with healthcare professionals, which can be crucial for career changers to establish themselves in the medical field.
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