Reasons to Get Certified in Medical Assisting
Although in most states, medical assistants aren’t obligated to have certification, there are compelling reasons to consider becoming certified. Medical assistants (MAs) are among the entry-level positions within the field of nursing and patient care. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the job outlook for MAs is quite promising, with a projected growth rate of 16% from 2021 to 2031. This growth rate is significantly higher than the average for most other occupations.
Even though certification is technically a choice, there are several strong arguments in favor of becoming a nationally certified medical assistant. The American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA) administers one of the most prestigious certifications, known as the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA).
Why Getting Certified as a Medical Assistant Is a Smart Move
This article outlines ten important reasons why obtaining certification as a medical assistant is beneficial for both you and your employer. The AAMA has defined three categories of eligibility for the CMA examination:
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1. For recent graduates, including students nearing completion of their formal education or those applying for the exam within one year of graduation.
2. Non-recent graduates, encompassing individuals who graduated more than a year ago from an accredited medical assisting program.
3. Recertifying candidates, which includes those who have previously passed the exam and are now seeking recertification.
To maintain your medical assistant certification, you can either complete 60 recertification continuing education units (CEUs) or retake the CMA exam. While employers may not always insist on national certification, obtaining it can significantly enhance your career prospects and open up new job opportunities.
Why Getting Certified as a Medical Assistant Is a Smart Move
While many states don’t require medical assistants to be certified, there are compelling reasons to consider certification. Here are 10 important benefits of becoming a certified medical assistant:
1. Employers Prefer Certified Medical Assistants
Employers often favor nationally certified medical assistants for several reasons. Certification can provide protection against malpractice lawsuits, making it a wise choice for healthcare providers. It’s also a sign of professionalism that HR directors in managed care organizations appreciate.
2. Certification Validates Knowledge and Skills
Being certified demonstrates to your employer that you possess the knowledge and skills necessary for the job. As a medical assistant, you play a crucial role in providing care to patients, some of whom may be seriously ill. Beyond clinical skills, certified medical assistants also have expertise in areas like billing, coding, office management, medical law, and ethics.
3. Certification Reflects Quality Training
Certification is a mark of quality training. To be eligible for the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) examination from the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA), you must graduate from an accredited program. Research has shown that accreditation positively influences the quality of education, making certification a symbol of top-notch training.
4. Certified Medical Assistants Earn More
Salaries for certified medical assistants can vary based on several factors. In states that require certification, medical assistants often enjoy higher wages compared to those in states without certification requirements. For instance, certified medical assistants in Washington typically earn more than their counterparts in Alabama, which doesn’t mandate certification. Salary levels also differ in areas with varying costs of living. The annual mean wage for MAs ranges from $24,430 – $35,660 in over half of America. States like Washington, Alaska, and Masachusettes, where the annual mean salary for CMAs is $44,200 – $47,320 have a higher cost of living.
5. Certification May Become Mandatory
Obtaining medical assistant certification could become a necessity in the near future. Some states already require formal program completion for medical assistants. They are:
- Massachusetts
- New Jersey
- North Dakota
- South Dakota
- Washington
- Arizona
This trend aligns with the broader healthcare field, where mandatory education and certification are on the rise. Certification not only signifies proficiency but also enhances job performance, leading to better patient outcomes.
6. More Job Opportunities
Certification expands your employability and job prospects. National medical assistant certification demonstrates your commitment to delivering high-quality patient care. Especially in states where certification is not yet compulsory, it signals your dedication to excellence. Employers seeking candidates for specialized fields, such as podiatry or pediatrics, are more likely to hire certified individuals.
7. Hospitals Seek Certified Medical Assistants
Hospitals are increasingly setting higher standards for healthcare professionals, including certified nurses and medical assistants. They aim to increase the percentage of bachelor’s-prepared nurses and hire certified medical assistants to reduce malpractice risks and improve evaluations. Certified medical assistants work in clinical duties, clerical duties, and other healthcare settings which include:
- Physicians’ offices
- Outpatient clinics
- Hospitals
- Other areas where healthcare is delivered to the community
8. Certifications Validate Clinical Judgment
Nationally certified medical assistants are sought after by employers because certification affirms their mastery of the knowledge and skills required for the job. This benefits patients, families, employers, and medical assistants alike, especially when caring for acutely ill patients in complex healthcare settings.
9. Access to Continuing Education
Many employers offer continuing education opportunities, which can translate into free education. The AAMA requires recertification every 60 months for CMAs. This can be achieved by retaking the certification exam or submitting 60 recertification continuing education points, 30 of which must be approved by the AAMA and cover administrative, clinical, and general education topics.
10. Increased Respect
Medical assistants collaborate with highly educated healthcare professionals. Certification demonstrates clinical expertise and administrative knowledge, earning the respect of coworkers. This respect can lead to better job stability and the opportunity to request preferred shifts, as certified medical assistants bring significant value to the organization and earn the respect of their colleagues.
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