CCMA Certification Online
Top Options for CCMA Certification Online: Your Path to Success
What is a Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA)?
A Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) is a healthcare professional who has obtained certification in clinical medical assisting.
CCMAs work directly with patients and support the work of doctors and other healthcare professionals.
They combine clinical and procedural knowledge to aid in patient care and in-office procedures.
CCMAs are skilled multitaskers who help maximize healthcare team productivity, enabling efficient operations and positive patient experiences in a healthcare facility.
They work in various healthcare facilities, including hospitals, physicians’ offices, outpatient clinics, and rural health clinics.
Benefits of Medical Assistant Certification
Medical assistant certification establishes a medical assistant as a caring, responsible professional who has undergone a study and assessment program through comprehensive medical assistant programs to validate their credentials.
Certification may be required for many jobs, with the NHA estimating 89% of employers require or encourage certification.
Certified medical assistants are in high demand, with job openings increasing by 9-15% each year.
Certification demonstrates a commitment to professionalism, precision, and dedication to patient welfare.
Certified medical assistants can work in various healthcare settings, including medical offices, hospitals, and other healthcare facilities.
Prerequisites for CCMA Certification
To become a Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA), there are no stringent prerequisites, making it an accessible career path for many. However, having a high school diploma or equivalent is often preferred by employers and can enhance your job prospects. Additionally, many CCMA programs recommend that students possess a basic understanding of medical terminology and clinical procedures to better grasp the course material.
While formal prerequisites may be minimal, it’s important to recognize that some healthcare facilities may require CCMA certification as a condition of employment. In such cases, obtaining certification not only validates your skills and knowledge but also significantly boosts your employability in the competitive healthcare environment. This certification demonstrates your commitment to the profession and your readiness to contribute effectively to healthcare teams.
CCMA Certification Process
The CCMA certification process involves completing a medical assistant program, often taught by experienced instructors who have developed and taught medical assistant programs, and passing the CCMA exam.
The exam is administered by the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) and covers clinical and procedural knowledge, electronic health records, medical terminology, and more.
To prepare for the exam, students can take a 100% online course that covers the necessary material.
The course includes a voucher covering the certification exam fee.
Comparison of Online vs. In-Person CCMA Programs
When pursuing a CCMA certification, students can choose between online and in-person programs, each offering unique advantages. Online CCMA programs provide unparalleled flexibility and convenience, allowing students to complete coursework at their own pace and on their own schedule. This is particularly beneficial for those balancing work or family commitments. Additionally, online programs often come with lower tuition costs and can be completed more quickly than traditional in-person programs.
In contrast, in-person CCMA programs offer hands-on training and direct interaction with instructors and peers, which can be invaluable for students who thrive in a traditional learning environment. These programs provide practical experience in a clinical setting, which is crucial for mastering clinical procedures and building confidence. Furthermore, in-person programs often present more opportunities for networking and forming professional relationships within the healthcare community.
For those seeking a blend of both, some online CCMA programs incorporate hybrid models that include clinical rotations or practicum experiences. These hybrid programs offer the flexibility of online learning while ensuring students gain essential hands-on experience.
Regardless of the format, both online and in-person CCMA programs typically cover a comprehensive curriculum, including:
Medical terminology
Clinical procedures
Electronic health records
Basic medical terminology knowledge
Patient history
Healthcare environment
Medical office management
Healthcare teams
Clinical medical assistant roles and responsibilities
It’s crucial to ensure that the CCMA program you choose is accredited by a reputable accrediting agency, such as the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) or the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA). Accreditation guarantees that the program meets industry standards and equips you with the knowledge and skills necessary to excel as a certified clinical medical assistant.
Top Online CCMA Certification Programs
Des Moines Area Community College offers an online CCMA certification program that covers medical terminology, medical law and ethics, HIPAA rules, scheduling systems, and more.
The program prepares students to perform duties from the front office to the back office, including vital sign measurement, exam assistance, laboratory testing, and more.
Other online CCMA certification programs are available, including those offered by the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) and other reputable institutions.
Career Opportunities for Certified Clinical Medical Assistants
Certified clinical medical assistants can work in various healthcare settings, including medical offices, hospitals, outpatient clinics, and rural health clinics.
They can work as medical office managers, medical assistants, or in other healthcare roles.
CCMAs can also work in other healthcare facilities, such as nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and rehabilitation centers.
They can also work in medical research, medical education, or medical sales.
Job Outlook and Salary Ranges
The job outlook for certified clinical medical assistants is excellent, with job openings increasing by 9-15% each year.
According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, job opportunities for medical assistants will grow by 23% overall by 2028.
The average salary for medical assistants is $34,800 per year or $16.73 per hour, according to BLS data.
Certified clinical medical assistants can earn higher salaries, with some earning up to $50,000 per year or more.
Maintaining CCMA Certification
To maintain CCMA certification, medical assistants must complete continuing education requirements and adhere to the NHA’s code of ethics.
They must also stay current with industry developments and advancements in medical technology.
Certified clinical medical assistants can maintain their certification by taking online courses, attending workshops, and participating in professional organizations.
They can also network with other healthcare professionals to stay informed about industry trends and best practices.