CMA - Certified Medical Assistant

The American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA) grants certification for medical assistants examination. Although some states do not require MAs to be certified, many employers prefer CMAs. Medical Assistants (MAs) perform duties including:

• taking medical histories

• preparing patients for examinations

• changing wound dressings 

• collecting specimens for lab tests

• performing administrative tasks, like scheduling and coding

• maintaining medical records

CMAs can work in various settings, from hospitals to doctor’s offices. MAs have limitless opportunities to specialize. CMAs are needed in pediatrics, oncology, emergency medicine, chiropractic care, obstetrics, and more.

The CMA exam is a computerized test with 200 multiple-choice questions, divided into four sections. Each segment is timed at 40 minutes, and test takers can take 20-minute breaks in-between segments.

Scores range from 200 to 800. Pass/Fall results are provided after the exam at the testing center. Official scores are posted online within eight weeks and mailed within ten weeks off the exam date.

Those who pass the exam will also receive an official score report, certificate, and wallet certification card within ten weeks after receiving the official scores.

Candidates who fail may reapply and retake the exam with no waiting period.

Here are the steps to achieving the CMA certification.

1. Obtain a high school diploma or equivalent (GED)

2. Complete a one or two-year accredited medical assistant program

3. Verify exam eligibility

4. Apply for the exam and submit the required documentation

5. Pass the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) exam

Successful completion of the CMA exam qualifies an individual to practice as a Certified Medical Assistant.

The CMA exam fee is $250. Members of the AAMA qualify for a discounted exam fee of $125.

Certified Medical Assistants (CMAs) must recertify every five years through continuing education credits or reexamination. 

Fees

Recertification by Exam: $125 for AAMA members and $250 for non-members

Recertification by Continuing Education (CE): $65 for AAMA members and $130 for non-members

The AAMA offers study resources for exam candidates, including:

• Exam Content Outline

• Practice Exam ($30 for members and non-members)

• Certification and Practice Exam FAQs

• Anatomy and Physiology Practice Questions

• Medical Terminology Practice Questions

Related certifications include:

• AMT Registered Medical Assistant (RMA)

• AMT Certified Medical Administrative Specialist (CMAS)

• AMT Patient Care Technician (PCT)

• ASPMA Podiatric Medical Assistant, Certified (PMAC)

• NCCT National Certified Medical Assistant (NCMA)

• NHA Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA)