Becoming a Medical Assistant (MA) is a fulfilling career that allows you to help patients and work in a fast-paced environment. But how do you get started? In this post, we'll guide you on how to become an MA, including education, certification, and job outlook.

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## What is a Medical Assistant?

A Medical Assistant (MA) performs administrative and clinical tasks in a medical setting. They provide direct patient care and perform various clinical functions, such as ECG, phlebotomy, and medication administration, all while prioritizing patient safety and maintaining strict confidentiality. Their job duties vary with the location, specialty, and experience. Here’s what a MA usually does:

- Taking patients' medical histories and recording vital signs;

- Assisting physicians with patient examinations and procedures;

- Preparing and administering medications as directed by physicians;

- Scheduling appointments and maintaining patient records;

- Billing and coding for insurance purposes, and

- Communicating with patients and their families

What's great about being an MA is that it allows you to help people and make a difference in their lives. Whether you're assisting with a patient's care, helping to run a medical office, or supporting medical research, your work can have a positive impact on the lives of many people.

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## What are the requirements to become a MA?

The requirements for MA certification vary by state in the United States. Some states do not require certification to work as an MA, but employers may require you to have it. Other states have specific requirements for certification or registration. Here are some examples:

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**1. Educational Requirements** - There are no formal education requirements for becoming a MA in most states. But, most employers prefer to hire MAs who graduate from the following programs:

- **Diploma or Certificate**: You can become an MA through a diploma or certificate program. This is the most common route to becoming an MA. These programs take 9 to 12 months to complete. They cover topics such as medical terminology, anatomy and physiology, medical office procedures, and clinical skills.

- **Associate Degree**: Some community colleges offer 2-year programs which lead to an associate’s degree. You can choose to pursue this if you want a more comprehensive education.

If you have no time or resources to enroll in training programs, you can learn the duties of an MA on the job as long as you have an HS diploma or equivalent. If you’re a high school student interested in this career, you should take courses in biology, chemistry, and anatomy. Business and computer courses will also be helpful.

**2. Certification Requirements** - Most states do not require a certification to work as a MA, but employers may prefer to hire certified MAs. Here are some certifying organizations that the National Commission for Certifying Agencies accredits:

**Certified Medical Assistant (Offered By AAMA):**

- Exam Format: 200 multiple-choice questions

- Exam Cost: $125 for AAMA members, $250 for non-AAMA members

**Registered Medical Assistant (Offered By AMT):**

- Exam Format: 210 multiple-choice questions and a practical exam

- Exam Cost: $135 for AMT

**National Certified Medical Assistant (Offered By NCCT):**

- Exam Format: 150 multiple-choice questions

- Exam Cost: $90 for NCCT

There may be states that require you to complete an accredited program, pass a national certification exam, or both to work as a MA. California, Washington, and Louisiana are some of these states. If you're interested in becoming a MA, it's a good idea to research the requirements in your specific state or region. You can also check with the certifying agencies for information on certification requirements and resources.

**‍3. Other requirements** - Some training providers and employers may require you to pass or present requirements which include:

- **Background Check:** Many employers require MAs to undergo a background check.

- **Drug Screening:** Your employer may also require you to undergo drug screening.

- **Immunizations:** You may need to provide proof of certain immunizations, such as Hepatitis B.

It is always best to check the specific requirements that you need to provide since it varies depending on the program, school, employer, or location.

## What are the steps to becoming a MA?

To become an MA, you need to follow a series of steps. Here are the general steps involved in becoming a Certified Medical Assistant (CMA):

1. **Education**: You first need a high school diploma or an equivalent certificate. This is the minimum educational requirement for pursuing a career as a MA.

2. **Accredited Program**:  You can enroll in an accredited medical assisting program. The duration may last from 9 months to 2 years. The cost of the program ranges from $1,000 to $3,000. These programs offer diploma, certificate, or associate degree options.Dreambound works with state-accredited schools offering MA programs. Some of the programs can be online coursework with in-person externships. You can visit Dreambound and find medical assistant certification classes near you.‍

3. **Coursework**: You must complete coursework that covers various topics, including medical terminology, anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, clinical procedures, medical office management, and medical ethics.‍

4. **Clinical Training**: You also need to complete clinical as part of the training program. This provides hands-on experience in a healthcare setting. Otherwise, you may take part in an externship or volunteer in a medical facility, where you work under the supervision of medical professionals.‍

5. **Certification Exam**: After completing an accredited program, you are eligible to take the certification exam. The CMA certification may be from the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA). The exam assesses knowledge and skills in areas such as patient care, medical procedures, administrative tasks, and professionalism.‍

6. **Continuing Education**: Once certified, you must maintain your credentials by completing continuing education requirements. This ensures that you stay up-to-date on advancements and changes in the medical field.‍

It's important to note that the specific requirements and steps may vary depending on the state and the certifying organization. It is best to refer to reputable sources such as the AAMA or the official websites of accredited MA programs for the most accurate and latest information.

## Where do MAs work?

You can work as a MA in various healthcare settings, including:

- Clinics,

- Hospitals,

- Outpatient Care Centers,

- Urgent Care Centers,

- Nursing Homes or Assisted Living Facilities,

- Medical Laboratories, and

- Academic Institutions.

It's important to note that the specific work settings for you may vary based on factors such as your location, employer preferences, and the scope of practice allowed by local regulations.

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## How much do MAs make? What is the job outlook for MAs?

MAs had a mean annual wage of $40,700, with a mean hourly wage of $19.57 in May 2022. There is a 16 percent increase in employment of MAs from 2021 to 2031, according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics. This is about 123,000 job openings each year, on average.

## ‍What comes after CMA?

In addition to the potential for job growth and salary, you also have opportunities for career advancement as a MA. With additional education and certification, you can move into roles such as:

**Career Advancement:**‍

**Electronic Health Records Specialist:**

- Manage and maintain electronic patient records.

- Ensure accuracy, security, and compliance with legal requirements.

- Facilitate the efficient retrieval of patient data for healthcare providers.

- May assist in training staff on EHR systems.

**Physician Assistant or Nurse Practitioner:**

- Diagnose and treat patients.

- Prescribe medications and perform procedures.

- Provide comprehensive medical care under the supervision of a physician.

- Collaborate with physicians to deliver primary or specialized healthcare services.

**Registered Nurse:**

- Give direct patient care.

- Administer medications.

- Monitor patients' conditions.

- Coordinate healthcare interventions.

- May specialize in specific areas such as pediatrics, critical care, or oncology.

## Final Thoughts

Embarking on the journey to becoming a MA opens up a world of opportunities in the healthcare field. Whether you're drawn to the administrative side or the clinical aspect, the path to becoming a MA is with growth and potential. So take the leap, follow your passion, and begin your exciting journey to become a valued member of the healthcare team as a MA.  Start your journey now with Dreambound!

Dreambound's program is offered in various locations. Check out these blogs for in-depth information about the program, its requirements, and how to join:
-[Medical Assistant classes near me in Madison](https://dreambound.com/view/cma-training-madison-wi)
-[Medical Assistant classes near me in St. Louis](https://dreambound.com/view/cma-training-st-louis-mo)



How to become a medical assistant

medical_assistant.png

Medical Assistant certification

Fully online Medical Assistant class

Fully online, at your own schedule 24/7, 28 weeks long. After completion, MedCerts will work to match you with an externship site close to you. Not available for Wisconsin, North Dakota, Rhode Island, Washington, or Louisiana residents. This class makes you eligible to obtain your Certified Clinical Medical Assistant certification and Certified Medical Administrative Assistant certification.

How much does the class cost? Is there financial aid available?

The class costs $4,000 total. Monthly payment options are available, with interest rates from 0-12%. MedCerts also has financial aid options for those who qualify through: MyCAA, state workforce funding (including WIOA), and Department of Defense Credentialing Assistance or COOL funding for the Army, Air Force and Coast Guard. Click "Get Started" to get more information.

What is a Medical Assistant?

Medical Assistants provide direct care to patients. They may give medications, draw blood and do other diagnostic tests, and take medical histories. They usually work at doctors' offices, hospitals, and other healthcare facilities. Average starting salary is around $30,577/year according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.


Medical Assistant

Overview

Step into the world of medical assistance through our all-encompassing curriculum. Seamlessly transition into a fulfilling career with our online medical assistant training. Acquire crucial skills and pertinent knowledge aligned with the role. Our program readies you to embark on the journey of becoming a Certified Medical Assistant by covering the knowledge and skills you need to successfully sit for industry-recognized certifications including a Certified Phlebotomy Technician and a Certified EKG Technician.

Comprehensive Curriculum

Program Orientation: Medical Assistant

Medical Assistant Career Introduction

HealthCare Foundational Knowledge and Basic Science

Anatomy and Physiology Essentials

General Patient Care

Pharmacology Basics for Medical Assisting

Infection Control

Testing and Laboratory Procedures

Externship Readiness Skills

Patient Care Coordination and Education

Medical Administrative Assistant

Communication and Customer Service in the Healthcare Office

Comprehensive Electronic Health Records

Medical Laws and Ethics

Phlebotomy

Venipuncture Labs

EKG and Cardiovascular

Career Success in Healthcare

Medical Assistant Final Exam

Fundamentals of HIPAA

Initiating Your Externship

Clinical Externship Experience

Program Completion: Medical Assistant

Join us to embark on a rewarding path towards mastering the skills of a proficient Medical Assistant!


If you have a passion for medicine and helping others, Penn Foster's Medical Assistant Program is designed to provide fundamental skills and credentials for a career in the healthcare industry. Explore healthcare careers from the comfort of your home at your own pace.

Key program features:

Learn clinical procedures, anatomy, physiology, and psychology basics.

Prepare for careers in various healthcare settings, such as doctors' offices, clinics, and hospitals.

Curriculum aligns with industry certifications, including RMA, CCMA, NCMA, CMAC, and CPT.


Online Clinical Medical Assistant Certification

Online Medical Assistant certification Classes

Fresno City College Medical Assistant-Clinician Program prepares students for employment in a medical facility such as a physician's office, clinic, surgery center, or hospital. Medical Assistants assist the physician with patient examinations, diagnosis and treatment.


Medical Office Assistant certification

San Joaquin Delta College provides a comprehensive online Medical Assistant certification program that aims to equip individuals with the necessary knowledge, skills, and competencies for a successful healthcare career. The program includes a diverse range of coursework covering administrative and clinical tasks, such as medical terminology, coding and billing, patient scheduling, and medical office procedures. Students will also gain hands-on experience in clinical skills, including taking vital signs, preparing patients for examinations, administering medications, and assisting healthcare professionals. The online format allows for flexibility and convenience, although there may be some in-person requirements. Graduates of the program will be well-prepared for entry-level employment in various healthcare settings, and they can benefit from the college's resources and experienced faculty. Overall, the Medical Assistant certification program at San Joaquin Delta College offers a comprehensive curriculum, flexible learning options, and valuable hands-on experience for those seeking a rewarding healthcare career.


Online Medical Assistant with Phlebotomy

As you prepare to become a medical assistant, choosing a program that includes hands-on training, post-graduation support, and opportunities for real-world experience is key. An education from an accredited school, such as Arizona College, can prepare you for a successful career as a medical assistant.


How to become a medical assistant

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