Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) Certification

Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CMA) Certification

The Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) certification is a professional designation that recognizes the knowledge and skills of medical assistants who have completed an accredited educational program and passed a certification exam. The certification is offered by the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA), which is the largest professional organization for medical assistants in the United States.

The CMA certification exam is designed to assess the competencies required for entry-level medical assisting positions and is recognized by employers across the United States. The CMA designation is widely respected in the healthcare industry and can be a valuable asset for those seeking employment or advancement in their careers as medical assistants.

In addition to the benefits of having the CMA designation, CMAs also have access to a range of resources and benefits through the AAMA. These include continuing education opportunities, networking opportunities with other medical assistants, and access to professional development resources, such as job search tools and publications.

In conclusion, the CMA certification is a valuable recognition for medical assistants who are dedicated to their profession and want to demonstrate their knowledge and skills. By obtaining the CMA designation, individuals can increase their competitiveness in the job market, advance their careers, and enhance their professional reputation in the healthcare industry.

Am I Eligible to Take the Certified Medical Assistant Exam?

To be eligible for the CMA certification, candidates must meet one of the following criteria:

Graduation from a medical assisting program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) or the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES)

Non-CAAHEP/ABHES accredited programs require two years of qualifying full-time employment as a medical assistant.

About the CMA Exam

Once a candidate meets the eligibility criteria, they must pass the CMA Certification Exam. The exam is administered by the AAMA and consists of 200 multiple-choice questions, which are divided into the following categories:

General (anatomy and physiology, medical terminology, psychology, communication skills, and professionalism)

Administrative (scheduling appointments, maintaining medical records, managing finances, and insurance processing)

Clinical (taking vital signs, preparing patients for examinations, performing EKGs, and administering medications)

The CMA Certification Exam is computer-based and can be taken at one of many testing centers throughout the United States. The exam is timed, and candidates have three hours to complete it.

How Much Does it Cost to Take the Certified Medical Assistant Certification Exam?

The cost to take the CMA Certification Exam varies depending on whether the candidate is a member of the AAMA or not. As of 2023, the fee for AAMA members is $125, while non-members pay $250.