Eligibility and Requirements

• To be eligible for the CMA exam, you must be in one of three categories: completed a recognized medical assisting program, a non-recent graduate of an accredited medical assisting program, or a current CMA (AAMA) certificate holder.

• Recognized medical assisting programs are accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) or the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education (ABHES).

• Non-recent graduates must submit an official transcript from an accredited medical assisting program.

• You must have a high school diploma or equivalent (GED) to apply for the CMA exam.

• Some certifications allow you to take an exam after gaining experience, while others require attending an accredited program.

• Eligibility for the CMA exam can also be extended to those who have completed an NCCT-authorized program and have verifiable work experience as a phlebotomy technician.

Choosing the Right Certification

• There are several types of medical assistant certifications, each focusing on different skills.

• Choose a certification that aligns with your career goals.

• Certification requirements vary depending on the type of certification.

• The CMA certification is the most widely recognized, covering administrative and clinical education and training.

• The CCMA certification focuses on clinical skills, best for those who prefer working alongside physicians.

Medical Assistant Training and Preparation

• Medical assistant training programs are designed to help you prepare for the Certified Medical Assistant exam.

• The CMA online prep course is designed to help you prepare for the Certified Medical Assistant exam.

• The course covers all the topics you need to know to pass the exam.

• Take CMA practice tests to evaluate your progress and identify areas for improvement.

• Pay special attention to questions that give you trouble, and review the material until you understand it fully.

Exam Logistics

• To register for the exam, you must obtain an exam scheduling permit.

• You must submit the required documentation and candidate fee, which is payable by money order, credit or debit card, cashier’s/certified check, or institution check.

• You must schedule your exam directly through the online registration site or by calling the number listed on your scheduling permit.

• The exam fee is $125.00 for AAMA members and $250 for non-members.

• You should arrive at the test center at least 30 minutes before your scheduled test time.

• Be sure to confirm your exam date and time as provided by your instructor or testing center, and plan your preparation schedule accordingly.

Exam Content and Format

• The CMA exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions, with 20 questions not counting towards the score.

• The exam is divided into four 40-minute segments, with optional breaks between each segment.

• The questions are split into three content categories: Clinical Competency, General, and Administrative.

• The Clinical Competency category makes up 59% of the exam questions.

• The General category makes up 21% of the exam questions.

• The Administrative category makes up 20% of the exam questions.

Online Prep Courses and Resources

• Mometrix’s CMA test study guide reviews the most important components of the CMA exam, providing thorough test preparation for success.

• The Certified Medical Assistant Exam Secrets Study Guide is a comprehensive prep solution for passing the Certified Medical Assistant exam, including practice test questions and detailed explanations.

• The guide covers key concepts, procedures, principles, and vocabulary expected by the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA) for the exam.

• The CMA General section covers key areas for the exam.

• The CMA Administrative section covers essential information for the exam.

• The CMA Clinical section covers detailed information for the exam.

Career Benefits and Opportunities for Medical Assistants

• Medical assistants are in high demand, and certification shows commitment to a successful career.

• Most employers prefer certified medical assistants, ensuring they have the necessary knowledge and skills.

• Certification renewal is important to ensure medical assistants remain up-to-date on skills and knowledge.

• Renewal requirements vary depending on the type of certification.

• If your certification expires, you may need to retake the certification exam, depending on the length of expiration.

• Members of the United States Armed Forces or their spouses who have completed formal medical training during their service may also be eligible for certification, providing a pathway to a rewarding civilian career.

Maintaining Certification

Maintaining certification as a medical assistant is crucial to ensure that certified medical assistants remain up-to-date on the latest skills and procedures. The American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA) requires certified medical assistants to complete continuing education (CE) courses to maintain their certification. These courses cover a wide range of topics, including patient safety, emergency management, and the latest advancements in medical technology.

Certified medical assistants must complete 60 CEUs (Continuing Education Units) every five years to renew their certification. These units are divided into three categories: General, Administrative, and Clinical, ensuring that medical assistants stay well-rounded in their knowledge and skills. Additionally, medical assistants must pay a recertification fee and submit proof of their completed CEUs to the AAMA.

Staying current with certification not only enhances your skills but also demonstrates your commitment to the profession, making you a more attractive candidate to employers. It’s essential to keep track of your CEUs and renewal dates to avoid any lapses in certification, which could require retaking the certification exam.

Conclusion

• Getting certified is a big step towards improving your future and meeting your career goals.

• Take things one step at a time, and you’ll find getting certified is achievable.

• Certification is a step towards advancing one’s career.

Additional Resources for Medical Assisting

• The American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA) offers resources and support for medical assistants.

• The American Medical Technologists (AMT) offers certification and resources for medical assistants.

• The National Healthcareer Association (NHA) offers certification and resources for medical assistants.

FAQs

• What is the CMA exam?

• How do I register for the CMA exam?

• What is the format of the CMA exam?

• How do I prepare for the CMA exam?

• What are the benefits of becoming a certified medical assistant?

Glossary

• CMA: Certified Medical Assistant

• CCMA: Certified Clinical Medical Assistant

• RMA: Registered Medical Assistant

• AAMA: American Association of Medical Assistants

• AMT: American Medical Technologists

• NHA: National Healthcareer Association