How Much Does it Cost to Become a Medical Assistant?

Considering a career as a medical assistant? Discover how much it costs to go to school for this in-demand profession.

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Introduction

The medical field is one of the few recession-proof industries. Healthcare spending in the United States is expected to grow at a rate of 5.4% per year from 2018 to 2026, according to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. This means that there will be a greater demand for medical services and, as a result, more job opportunities in the medical field.

A medical assistant is a key member of a healthcare team. They are responsible for administrative tasks such as scheduling appointments, billing patients, and updating medical records They also perform clinical tasks such as taking patient vital signs and assisting with examinations.

Becoming a medical assistant is a great way to start your career in healthcare. But how much does it cost to become a medical assistant? The answer depends on several factors, including the type of training you receive and where you receive it.

The cost of medical assistant training

Medical assistant training generally costs between $1,000 and $5,000, depending on the type of program and the length of time it takes to complete. The cost of certification is usually not included in the price of tuition, but it is typically less than $200.

The cost of medical assistant certification

The cost of medical assistant certification can vary depending on the type of program you choose and the length of time it takes to complete the program. Generally, medical assistant programs last between six and twelve weeks, and the cost of certification can range from $600 to $1,200.

The cost of medical assistant licensure

Individuals interested in becoming a medical assistant may have to pay several fees during the licensure process. The cost of medical assistant licensure can vary depending on the state in which the individual practices, but it generally includes an application fee, a license fee, and a variety of other miscellaneous fees.

The cost of medical assistant licensure in California is as follows:
-Application fee: $60
-License fee: $180
-Background check fee: $49.50
-Fingerprinting fee: $49

In addition to the fees associated with licensure, individuals interested in becoming a medical assistant may also have to pay for certification from an accredited program. The cost of certification can range from $500 to $2,000, depending on the program chosen.

The cost of medical assistant registration

The cost of medical assistant registration varies from state to state. In some states, Medical assistants are not required to register with the state in order to practice. However, in other states, Medical Assistants must register with the state in order to practice. The cost of medical assistant registration also varies depending on the type of registration required. For example, some states require medical assistants to register as Certified Medical Assistants (CMAs), while other states require medical assistants to register as Registered Medical Assistants (RMAs). The cost of medical assistant registration also varies depending on whether the medical assistant is required to take an exam in order to be registered.

The cost of medical assistant malpractice insurance

The cost of medical assistant malpractice insurance will vary depending on the state in which you practice. In some states, medical assistants are required to carry their own insurance, while in others, they may be covered under the policy of the medical practice or facility in which they work. The cost of medical assistant malpractice insurance also depends on the type and amount of coverage you purchase.

The cost of medical assistant continuing education

While the cost of medical assistant continuing education can vary depending on the type of program you choose and the length of time it takes to complete, there are a few general things to keep in mind. First, most accredited programs will require you to pay a fee for textbooks and other materials. Additionally, you may be responsible for travel costs if you attend classes in person. Finally, please note that some employers may reimburse employees for the cost of medical assistant continuing education courses.

The cost of medical assistant membership dues

The cost of medical assistant membership dues are based on the level of education and training you have. The more experience you have, the higher the dues will be.

The cost of medical assistant supplies

One of the cost associated with becoming a medical assistant is the cost of medical assistant supplies. Depending on the type of program you enter, you may need to purchase a variety of supplies, including textbooks, scrubs, and stethoscopes. Many schools have lists of required and recommended supplies that you can use to budget for your expenses.

In addition to the cost of supplies, you may also need to pay for immunizations, TB tests, and other health screenings. Some clinical sites may require these tests and vaccinations before you begin your externship or clinical rotation. The cost of these tests and vaccinations can vary depending on your location and provider, but typically range from $50-$200.

Another potential cost associated with becoming a medical assistant is the cost of certification exams. Although certification is not required in all states, many employers prefer or require certification as proof of your skills and knowledge. The two main certifying bodies for medical assistants are the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA) and the National Healthcare Association (NHA). To sit for either exam, you must first meet specific education and experience requirements. The AAMA offers the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) exam while the NHA offers the Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) exam. The cost to take either exam is $125 for members and $250 for non-members.

The cost of medical assistant uniforms

The cost of medical assistant uniforms will depend on the type of uniform you choose and where you purchase it. You can expect to pay anywhere from $20 to $100 for a medical assistant uniform.