How to Become a Medical Assistant: Step-by-Step Guide
Medical assistants play a crucial role in healthcare settings by blending clinical and administrative duties.
If you’re considering a career that offers variety and a chance to help patients, becoming a medical assistant may be the perfect path.
This guide will walk you through the process of becoming a certified medical assistant (CMA), including the necessary training, certification, and job outlook.
How Long Does It Take to Become a Medical Assistant?
1-2 years
Degree Required:
Medical Assistant Program Certificate or Diploma
Job Outlook:
16% growth from 2021-2031
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)
What Do Medical Assistants Do? Key Responsibilities and Skills
Medical assistants assist healthcare providers by handling both clinical and administrative tasks. These professionals are essential in outpatient settings such as clinics, physician’s offices, and outpatient surgical centers. While the exact duties may vary depending on the facility, here are some of the most common medical assistant job responsibilities:
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Administrative Duties
- Greeting and checking patients in
- Updating patients’ electronic health records (EHR)
- Scheduling appointments
- Arranging hospital admissions and lab tests
- Filling out insurance paperwork
Clinical Duties
- Measuring vital signs and recording medical histories
- Drawing blood for lab tests
- Explaining treatment procedures
- Assisting healthcare providers during exams, procedures, and minor surgeries
- Removing stitches and dressing wounds
What Skills Do You Need to Become a Medical Assistant?
Medical assistants learn hard skills during their programs, which they need to perform administrative and patient care duties. However, crucial soft skills are often acquired before enrolling in a medical assistant program. Consider the following:
Hard Skills
- Medical billing and coding
- Medical terminology
- Keyboarding and computer applications
- Clinical assessment and diagnostic skills
- First aid and wound care
Soft Skills
- Written communication
- Interpersonal skills
- Empathy
- Attention to detail
- Analytical skills
Top 5 Certifications for Medical Assistants
For those wondering about the best medical assistant certifications, here are five key certifications that can help you advance in the field:
- Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) – This is the most recognized certification for new medical assistants. It demonstrates your ability to perform both clinical and administrative tasks.
- Registered Medical Assistant (RMA) – Similar to the CMA, but the RMA is issued by the American Medical Technologists (AMT) and may have different eligibility requirements.
- National Certified Medical Assistant (NCMA) – Issued by the National Center for Competency Testing (NCCT), this certification is widely accepted.
- Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) – Focused more on clinical skills, this certification emphasizes patient care, phlebotomy, EKGs, and more.
- Certified Medical Administrative Assistant (CMAA) – If you are interested in handling administrative duties like insurance coding, scheduling, and office management, this certification is the best option.
How to Become a Medical Assistant
If you’re asking, “How to become a medical assistant?” the process involves education, certification, and gaining hands-on experience. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
1. Earn a High School Diploma or Equivalent
Before enrolling in a medical assistant program, you’ll need to complete high school or earn an equivalent qualification like a GED.
2. Graduate from an Accredited Medical Assistant Program
You’ll need to complete a medical assistant program that is accredited by recognized organizations like the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES) or the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP). These programs typically offer a certificate or diploma and take about 9-12 months to complete.
During the program, you will gain the necessary medical assistant skills such as understanding medical terminology, patient care, medical billing and coding, and learning how to handle office software and electronic health records (EHR).
3. Apply for Medical Assistant Certification
After graduation, you can pursue certification through various accrediting bodies. The Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) exam is one of the most popular certifications, but you can also consider other options like the Certified Clinical Medical Assistant or the Certified Medical Administrative Assistant exams. The National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA) accredits medical assistant certification organizations. There are five certification options for medical assistants based on eligibility and clinical care vs. administrative focus. Aspiring professionals typically pursue certification of medical assistant (CMA) credentials through the American Association of Medical Assistants.
4. Pass the CMA (AAMA) Exam
The CMA exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions covering clinical and administrative topics, including medical law, risk management, and patient care. Passing this exam demonstrates your competence and dedication to becoming a certified professional.
5. Gain Hands-On Experience
Many medical assistant training programs include externships that allow you to gain practical experience in a real healthcare setting. This is a crucial step in preparing for full-time employment and helps you build valuable relationships with employers.
6. Find Employment
Once you’re certified, you can start applying for medical assistant positions in outpatient clinics, hospitals, medical offices, or other healthcare settings. Your certification will give you a competitive edge in the job market.
7. Advance Your Career
Medical assistants work in entry-level positions within healthcare but can specialize their work and advance their careers. Certification as a clinical or administrative medical assistant demonstrates your advanced knowledge and skills in these areas.
Within clinical practice, medical assistants can specialize in cardiology, family practice, geriatrics, and ophthalmology, among other areas. They may also consider continuing their education in other healthcare subjects.
Some assistants pursue nursing education with associate degrees in nursing (ADNs) or bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) programs. ADN-prepared nurses can advance to BSN degrees through RN-to-BSN bridge programs, which are often available completely online. Other options include:
- Office management
- Physician Assistant
- Program management
- Phlebotomy technician
- Surgical technician
- EKG technician
Is Becoming a Certified Medical Assistant Right for You?
If you’re wondering, “Is becoming a certified medical assistant right for me?”, consider the following benefits:
- Job Stability and Demand – The job outlook for medical assistants is strong, with a projected 16% growth from 2021 to 2031, which is much faster than the average for other occupations.
- Salary Potential – The medical assistant salary varies depending on location and experience. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary is around $38,270. However, medical assistant salary by state can differ, so you might earn more or less depending on where you work.
- Career Flexibility – Medical assistants have the ability to work in various healthcare settings, such as outpatient clinics, hospitals, and nursing homes. Plus, many medical assistant roles offer career advancement opportunities, such as specializing in specific medical fields or advancing to managerial positions.
What Are the Benefits of Becoming a Certified Medical Assistant?
Becoming a certified medical assistant (CMA) can provide numerous benefits, including:
- Increased employability as employers often prefer certified professionals.
- Higher earning potential, with many employers offering a higher salary for certified candidates.
- Enhanced job satisfaction due to greater job security and more opportunities for advancement.
Is There a Demand for Medical Assistants?
Yes, there is a high demand for medical assistants. As healthcare services expand and the population ages, the need for skilled medical assistants is expected to grow. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the field is projected to grow by 16% from 2021 to 2031, which is much faster than the average for all occupations. This means there will be plenty of job opportunities for certified medical assistants.
What Is the Difference Between a CMA and RMA?
Both Certified Medical Assistants (CMA) and Registered Medical Assistants (RMA) perform similar duties, but they are certified by different organizations. The CMA is issued by the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA), while the RMA is granted by the American Medical Technologists (AMT). Both certifications require passing an exam and meeting specific education and experience requirements.
How Much Does It Cost to Get Medical Assistant Certification?
The cost of becoming a certified medical assistant depends on several factors, including the certification you pursue and the program you choose. Generally, certification exam fees range from $100 to $200, while completing a medical assistant program can cost anywhere from $1,500 to $5,000, depending on whether you attend a diploma, certificate, or degree program.
How to Become a Nurse After Being a Medical Assistant
Many medical assistants who are interested in nursing can transition into a nursing career by pursuing an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). Some medical assistants even take advantage of RN-to-BSN bridge programs, which allow them to build upon their healthcare experience and become registered nurses.
Medical Assistant Career Progression in Healthcare
Once you’re a certified medical assistant, there are plenty of career advancement opportunities. Some options include:
- Specializing in areas like pediatrics, geriatrics, or cardiology.
- Advancing into roles like office manager or medical office administrator.
- Pursuing further education to become a nurse, surgical technologist, or physician assistant.
By continuing your education and gaining specialized certifications, you can boost your earning potential and take on more challenging roles within healthcare.
Medical Assistant Certification
Obtaining certification as a medical assistant demonstrates your knowledge, skills, and dedication to your career to potential employers. Most healthcare organizations prefer hiring medical assistants who have graduated from accredited programs and hold certification from one of the five certifying bodies listed below. Each certification has its unique focus and requirements.
Typically, each organization requires completion of an accredited program and supervised work experience. Your choice of certification showcases your specific expertise as a medical assistant, and you can even pursue multiple certifications.
Certified Medical Assistant (American Association of Medical Assistants):
This is the most common certification for new medical assistants before specializing in clinical care or administrative duties.
Registered Medical Assistant (American Medical Technologists):
Candidates must have been employed for at least three of the last seven years to qualify. This nationally recognized certification is accepted in most states.
National Certified Medical Assistant (National Center for Competency Testing):
Eligibility for the exam requires either graduation from an accredited program or two years of physician-supervised, full-time work experience.
Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (National Healthcareer Association):
This certification focuses on clinical care, including vital signs, medications, EKGs, and phlebotomy.
Certified Medical Administrative Assistant (National Healthcareer Association):
These certified medical assistants specialize in administrative duties, including operating computer systems, handling correspondence, coordinating operation reports, and scheduling appointments.
Working as a Certified Medical Assistant
Upon completing your education and becoming certified, you can start your career as a medical assistant by networking within your local community. You can also explore online job boards for positions in outpatient clinics and physicians’ offices.
As of May 2022, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports a median annual salary of $38,270 for medical assistants. To learn more about medical assistant salaries and how they vary by location and setting, you can explore further.
Finding a Job as a Certified Medical Assistant
The field of medical assisting is rapidly growing, with BLS projections indicating a 16% job growth rate from 2022 to 2032, surpassing the projected growth rate for all occupations.
Medical assistants can highlight the skills they acquired during their programs, externships, and employment to stand out in the job market. If you’re interested in a role focused on clinical care, consider taking a short volunteer position or externship to gain experience and request a professional letter of recommendation.
Common Work Settings for Medical Assistants
The role of a medical assistant can vary depending on the work setting. According to the BLS, the most common workplace settings are:
Outpatient Centers: In this setting, medical assistants may take vital signs, record medical histories, help with examinations, and schedule appointments.
Physicians’ Offices: In physicians’ offices, medical assistants may administer injections as allowed by state law, draw blood, take throat swabs, and maintain electronic health records (EHRs).
Hospitals: In hospitals, medical assistants may schedule appointments, update treatments, assist with minor procedures, and maintain accurate medical records.
Frequently Asked Questions about Becoming a Medical Assistant
What is the difference between a CMA and a certified nursing assistant (CNA)?
A CNA, often referred to as a nurse’s aide, works under the supervision of a nurse and performs tasks such as taking vital signs, changing bed linens, or assisting patients with basic care. Certified medical assistants (CMAs) handle both administrative and clinical duties, including billing, scheduling, and computer software operation.
How long does it take to become a medical assistant?
You can become a medical assistant in nine months by completing a certificate program or in two years by earning an associate degree. A certificate program allows you to enter the workforce more quickly, while an associate degree provides a more comprehensive foundation for advancing your education.
What skills are important for medical assistants?
Medical assistants need strong clinical, communication, and organizational skills. They should be empathetic toward patients and pay attention to detail in both clinical care and administrative tasks.
What types of questions are included on the CMA exam?
The CMA exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as psychology, communication, professionalism, and medical terminology. It also includes sections on medical ethics, medical law, and risk management. Administrative questions address medical reception, patient advocacy, business practices, finances, and medical records, while clinical topics include anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, patient procedures, nutrition, and first aid.
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