How Much Time Does it Take to Get Medical Assistant Certification?

There are many schools that offer medical assistant certification, but the time it takes to get certified can vary depending on the program you choose. Some schools offer certification in as little as eight weeks, while others may take up to two years to complete. In addition, some schools offer certification through distance learning or online courses, while others require students to attend classes in person. The best way to determine how long it will take you to get certified is to contact the school you are interested in and ask about their specific program requirements.

The process of getting medical assistant certification

While there is no set time frame for getting medical assistant certification, the process typically takes between two and four months. This includes the time it takes to complete a certified medical assistant program, pass the certification exam, and obtain state licensure (if required).

The benefits of medical assistant certification

There are many benefits to getting certified as a medical assistant. For one, it demonstrates to potential employers that you have the necessary skills and knowledge to perform the duties of a medical assistant. In addition, certified Medical assistants often earn higher salaries than non-certified Medical Assistants

Certification also shows that you are committed to your career as a medical assistant. Employers are more likely to hire and promote employees who have demonstrated a commitment to their career through certification.

So how long does it take to get certified as a medical assistant? The answer depends on which certification you choose to pursue. Certification through the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA) takes about six months, while certification through the National Healthcare Association (NHA) takes about three months. However, both organizations offer accelerated programs that allow you to complete the certification process in less time.

The importance of medical assistant certification

Medical assistants are a vital part of the healthcare team. They perform administrative and clinical tasks to keep the offices of physicians and other health practitioners running smoothly. If you’re considering a career as a medical assistant, you may be wondering how much time it will take to get certified.

Although certification is not required in all states, many employers prefer to hire candidates who have completed a medical assistant program and obtained certification from an accredited organization such as the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA). Certification demonstrates that you have the knowledge and skills necessary to perform your duties competently and helps you stand out from the competition.

Most medical assistant programs can be completed in one to two years, although some programs may take longer. Completing an accredited program is the first step towards eligibility for certification. Once you have graduated from your program, you can then sit for the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) exam administered by the AAMA.

The CMA exam consists of two parts: a computer-based written examination and a practical skills examination. The written examination tests your knowledge of Medical Terminology anatomy and physiology, office procedures, and medical law and ethics. The practical skills examination assesses your ability to perform common medical assistant tasks such as measuring vital signs, administering injections, performing basic laboratory tests, and maintaining patient records.

You must pass both parts of the exam within three years of completing your medical assistant program in order to receive certification. Once you have passed the exam, you will need to submit an application for certification along with a fee to the AAMA. Certification must be renewed every 60 months by completing continuing education courses or retaking the CMA exam.

Although it may take some time to complete your medical assistant program and obtain certification, becoming a certified medical assistant can open up many opportunities for career advancement. With experience, you may be able to move into a supervisory role or specialize in a particular area such as pediatrics or obstetrics/gynecology. Pursuing certification shows that you are committed to your career and dedicated to providing quality patient care — qualities that are sure to impress potential employers

The different types of medical assistant certification

There are several different types of medical assistant certification, each with its own set of requirements. The most common type of certification is the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) certification. To be eligible for this certification, you must have completed an accredited medical assistant program and passed the CMA Exam. The CMA Exam is a two-part exam that assesses your knowledge of medical assisting and your clinical skills.

Other types of medical assistant certification include the Registered Medical Assistant (RMA) certification and the National Certified Medical Assistant (NCMA) certification. To be eligible for the RMA certification, you must have completed an accredited medical assistant program and passed the RMA Exam. The NCMA certification is open to any medical assistant who has completed an accredited medical assistant program and has worked in the field for at least five years. There is no exam required for this certification.

How to choose the right medical assistant certification

There are many questions to consider when you are looking at a career in medical assisting. One of the most important is how to choose the right medical assistant certification.

The first thing you need to do is some research on the different types of certification available. You will want to make sure that you choose a program that is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) or the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES). These accreditations ensure that the program you choose will provide you with the proper training and education needed to become a medical assistant.

Once you have narrowed down your choices, you need to decide how much time you are willing to commit to your education. Some programs can be completed in as little as 12 months, while others may take up to two years. You will also want to factor in the cost of tuition and other associated expenses when making your decision.

Once you have chosen a program, the next step is to pass the certification exam. This exam will test your knowledge of medical terminology, anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, and other related topics. Once you have passed this exam, you will be officially certified as a medical assistant.

The time it takes to get medical assistant certification varies depending on which program you choose and how quickly you are able to complete it. However, most programs can be completed in less than two years if you dedicated yourself to studying and pass the certification exam on your first attempt.

The cost of medical assistant certification

The cost of medical assistant certification can range from $0 to $1000, depending on the type of certification you choose and the length of the program. Most medical assistant certification programs take between 6 and 12 months to complete, but some programs may be shorter or longer.

The time commitment for medical assistant certification

Earning your medical assistant certification requires time commitment for coursework and studying, but the payoff is a career in a high-demand field with plenty of job opportunities. Let’s explore how long it takes to get medical assistant certification so you can plan your educational journey.

Full-time medical assistant students can complete their studies and earn certification in as little as nine months. Of course, this assumes you attend classes full time and don’t have any interruptions in your studies. If you need to work or take care of other responsibilities while you’re attending school, it will likely take longer to earn your certification. Most students complete their studies and earn certification within two years.

Once you have earned your medical assistant certification, you will need to stay current on your education to maintain your credential. Most certifying organizations require medical assistants to complete continuing education (CE) credits every few years to maintain their credential.

The benefits of becoming a certified medical assistant

medical assistants are in high demand. They play a vital role in the healthcare industry, providing support to doctors and other medical professionals. The job outlook for medical assistants is excellent, with an expected growth of 29% from 2016 to 2026.*

Becoming a certified medical assistant (CMA) can give you a competitive edge in the job market and open up opportunities for career advancement. But how long does it take to get medical assistant certification?

The answer depends on several factors, including your previous education and work experience. If you have a high school diploma or equivalent, you can typically complete a CMA program in about 12 months. If you need to complete some prerequisite coursework first, it may take 15-18 months to earn your certification.

Once you’ve completed a CMA program, you’ll need to pass the Certified Medical Assistant Exam (CMAE) administered by the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA). The exam consists of two parts: a computer-based knowledge test and a clinical skills assessment. You must pass both parts to earn your certification.

The average time to complete the entire process – from enrolled in a CMA program to taking the CMAE – is about 18 months. However, some students are able to complete the process in as little as 12 months.

If you’re thinking about becoming a certified medical assistant, contact alliedhealthcareers.com today. We can help you find the right CMA program for your needs and career goals.

The importance of renewing medical assistant certification

Medical assistants are in high demand, and the job outlook for medical assistants is very positive. The BLS projects that employment of medical assistants will grow by 29% from 2019 to 2029, which is much faster than the average for all occupations.1

With such high job growth, it’s no wonder that many people are interested in becoming certified medical assistants. But what many people don’t realize is that medical assistant certification is not a one-time event. Maintaining certification is essential to keeping your skills up-to-date and ensuring that you are able to provide the best possible care to your patients.

The good news is that renewing your medical assistant certification is relatively easy and can be done entirely online. The process generally takes less than an hour, and you will likely only need to renew your certification every few years.

1 https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/medical-assistants.htm

How Much Time Does it Take to Get Medical Assistant Certification?