Medical Assistant is one of the most popular careers in the healthcare sector given that it provides incredible job security, great employment benefits, well-paid salaries, and high employment potential. In fact, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) estimates that the US will need more than 160,000 new medical assistants in the decade between 2012 and 2022.
With an average wage of $14 an hour plus benefits, it can be quite a lucrative career path. However, the persons that get the most benefits in their careers typically tend to be certified medical assistants.
How to Become a Certified Medical Assistant
You can work as a medical assistant without receiving the certification, though you will earn considerably less and have less probability of career progression. Most certification programs will require a student to pass some sort of exam, after which their certification will remain valid for a given period of time. After the period is up, you will then have to undertake continuous learning in general medical assisting and clinical courses.
Most programs will provide basic training that will offer the necessary experience needed to become a medical assistant, click here to check out some of these programs.
Eligibility
Most certification programs will require that you graduate from a Commission of Allied Health Programs (CAAHEP) or Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES) accredited medical assistant training program.
As a medical assistant here are two paths that you could take:
1. Administrative Medical Assistant
You will be trained in aspects of stocking equipment and supplies, scheduling appointments, completing insurance forms and other types of paperwork.
2. Clinical Medical Assistant
You will be trained in medical aspects such as removing stitches, drawing blood, preparing patients for x-rays, sterilizing equipment and basic lab tests.
Importance of Choosing the Right Certification
There are two main certifications that you may choose and what you go for will be determined by your career goals, specialty, and field.
1. Certified Medical Assistant (CMA)
The certification is awarded by the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA). To get the certification you will need to take an exam no more than 12 months after graduation. You will be required to renew the certification every five years by taking a recertification exam.
2. Registered Medical Assistant (RMA)
The certification is granted by the American Medical Technologists. You will have to meet eligibility criteria that include passing a recognized exam, work experience, instructor training, military experience, or education. You will need to pay an annual fee to keep your certification.
Reasons to Become Certified
- Many states require certification before you are allowed to work as a medical assistant.
- Many employers have a preference for certified medical assistants as they are deemed to be better because of their formal training.
- Certification particularly the CMA is a reflection of the quality of training and proficiency, particularly in light of the eligibility criteria used to admit persons into the program.
- Certified medical assistants tend to earn more per hour relative to time spent in education. According to the BLS, the median wage for a medical assistant is $16 an hour, which is a fantastic return for a two-year education.
- Certified medical assistants tend to get better shifts as their training makes them useful in day shifts when most patients receive medications, therapy, appointments, and testing.
- Certification means that you get to participate in continuing education as you are expected to take a recertification course to keep your certification. Most institutions will sponsor the CMA courses, helping you stay current in the field for free.
Certification is a critical part of becoming a medical assistant. While there are many states that do not require certification, getting certified will help advance your career. While at first glance it may seem difficult, getting certified is not hard given the many paths to certification offered by the different accreditation bodies. If you really want to get your certification and boost your career, there is no reason not to do it.