How to Become a Certified Medication Aide in Louisiana
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment opportunities in healthcare support occupations, including CMAs, are projected to grow faster than average, offering strong job security and career advancement opportunities. If you’re considering becoming a CMA in Louisiana, this guide will walk you through the requirements, training programs, certification process, and career prospects.
Key Points
- A Certified Medication Aide (CMA) is a trained healthcare professional responsible for administering medications, monitoring patient responses, and ensuring proper medication management in long-term care settings.
- To become a Certified Medication Aide in Louisiana, you must hold a current CNA certification, complete a state-approved training program, and pass the Louisiana medication aide certification exam.
- Medication aide training programs in Louisiana include 100 hours of classroom instruction, 20 hours of lab practice, and 10 hours of supervised clinical training. Program costs range from $800 to $1,500.
- The average salary for a Certified Medication Aide in Louisiana is $31,840 per year ($15.31/hour), with experienced CMAs earning $35,000-$40,000+ annually.
- Louisiana requires medication aides to renew their certification annually, completing at least six hours of continuing education (CE) credits for renewal.
4. Pass the Medication Aide Exam
Take the 100-question multiple-choice certification exam. If you fail, you may retake the test once for free. A second failure requires you to retake the training program.
5. Maintain Certification with Annual Renewal
- CMAs must renew their certification annually.
- Complete at least six hours of continuing education (CE) credits for renewal.
- Renewal fees: $20 per year.
- Expired for over a year? You must retrain and retest to obtain a new certification.
To avoid late renewal fees, complete your CE credits and submit your renewal application at least three months before expiration.
Career Paths and Opportunities After Becoming a Medication Aide
A Certified Medication Aide (CMA) role can lead to higher-paying healthcare careers, including:
- Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN): Advance into a higher-responsibility nursing role. LPN programs take 12-18 months to complete.
- Pharmacy Technician: Work in pharmacies managing prescriptions. Pharmacy technician training takes 6 months to 1 year, followed by certification.
- Medical Assistant (MA): Gain experience in both clinical and administrative tasks. MA Programs take 9-12 months.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to become a Certified Medication Aide in Louisiana?
Becoming a CMA in Louisiana typically takes five to six weeks. The Louisiana Department of Health (LDH) requires 140 hours of training and after completing training, candidates must pass the Louisiana Medication Aide Certification Exam before working in healthcare facilities.
How much does a Certified Medication Aide make in Louisiana?
The average CMA salary in Louisiana is $31,840 per year ($15.31/hour), according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).
- Entry-level CMAs start at $28,000 annually ($13.50/hour).
- Experienced CMAs in specialized settings earn $35,000-$40,000+ per year.
- Wages vary based on location, experience, and type of healthcare facility.
How much does it cost to renew a Medication Aide license in Louisiana?
The Louisiana CMA renewal fees are:
- Annual renewal fee: $20
- Late renewal (less than 90 days past expiration): $25
- Late renewal (91-365 days past expiration): $35
- Expired for over a year? You must retrain and retest.
Renew your certification through the Louisiana Nurse Aide Registry on time to avoid extra fees.
Can you be a Medication Aide without a CNA?
No, in Louisiana, you must be a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) before becoming a Certified Medication Aide (CMA). The state requires applicants to have a valid CNA certification and at least six months of work experience in a healthcare facility before enrolling in a CMA training program.
What is the difference between a Medication Aide and a Med Tech?
Medication Aides (CMAs) undergo state-approved training programs, pass a certification exam, and work under the direct supervision of licensed nurses, primarily in long-term care settings.
Medication Technicians (Med Techs) typically work in assisted living facilities and residential care homes, receiving on-the-job training without a formal certification requirement. Med Techs may have fewer responsibilities and less stringent regulations compared to CMAs.
Final Thoughts
Becoming a Certified Medication Aide (CMA) in Louisiana is an excellent entry point into the healthcare industry, offering job stability, career growth, and meaningful work in patient care. Whether you want to stay in medication administration or advance to higher healthcare roles, this is a strong career choice.
Ready to get started? Find state-approved CMA programs near you with Dreambound and take the first step toward your new career!
If you're considering a career shift or curious about different professional paths, Dreambound has written many guides to help you make informed decisions. Here are a few:
Athena is Co-founder and CEO of Dreambound.
