When considering a career as a medical assistant, understanding the distinctions between the Certificated Medical Assistant (CMA) and Registered Medical Assistant (RMA) credentials is crucial. While both certifications enable professionals to perform similar duties, they differ in educational requirements and training. This guide will help you navigate these options to determine which credential aligns best with your career goals and employer preferences.
1. Overview of Medical Assistant Credentials
Medical assistant credentials play a crucial role in the healthcare sector, reflecting a professional’s educational achievements and expertise. The two primary certifications are the Certificated Medical Assistant (CMA) and the Registered Medical Assistant (RMA). While both credentials allow individuals to perform similar duties and apply for the same positions, the key distinction lies in the educational requirements and training paths associated with each certification.
To obtain a CMA credential, candidates must complete a medical assistant degree from an accredited institution, whereas the RMA offers more flexible eligibility options, including on-the-job experience and military medic training. Both certifications are recognized equally in the industry, with no regional or specialty preferences. Earning either credential enhances job prospects and salary potential, as medical assistants with certifications are often more competitive in the job market.
2. CMA vs. RMA: Key Differences
The CMA (Certificated Medical Assistant) is awarded by the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA), while the RMA (Registered Medical Assistant) is provided by American Medical Technologists (AMT). These organizations set the standards for certification and ensure that medical assistants meet industry requirements.
Eligibility for the CMA requires candidates to complete a formal, accredited medical assisting program. In contrast, the RMA offers more flexibility with multiple eligibility paths, including on-the-job experience and military medic training, alongside the completion of an accredited program, catering to a broader range of applicants.
Historically, the CMA credential has been available since 1963, which may contribute to its recognition among employers. The RMA, established nearly 50 years ago, also holds significant value in the industry, but the CMA‘s longer presence may give it a slight edge in terms of familiarity.
Both CMA and RMA certified professionals perform similar duties and can pursue the same roles within healthcare settings. With comparable examination structures and costs, both credentials are equally respected in the job market, offering similar opportunities and salary potential for medical assistants.
3. Eligibility Requirements for Each Credential
To qualify for the RMA or CMA credentials, candidates typically need to complete a medical assistant degree from an accredited institution. This common eligibility path ensures that individuals possess the foundational knowledge and skills necessary for success in the medical assisting field. Accreditation from recognized bodies like CAAHEP or ABHES is crucial for program legitimacy.
The RMA credential offers additional pathways for eligibility, allowing candidates to leverage on-the-job experience or military medic training as substitutes for formal education. This flexibility makes the RMA credential accessible to a broader range of applicants, including those who have gained practical skills through work or military service. In contrast, CMA candidates must complete an accredited medical assisting program to qualify.
Both CMA and RMA credentials require candidates to demonstrate their knowledge through exams, which consist of approximately 200 questions covering essential clinical and administrative topics. The CMA exam costs $125, while the RMA exam is slightly less at $120. Both credentials are nationally recognized, allowing medical assistants to practice across state lines, enhancing their career opportunities.
4. Exam Structure and Content Comparison
CMA and RMA certifications have distinct eligibility requirements, with CMA candidates needing to complete an accredited medical assisting program, while RMA applicants can leverage work experience or military training. Both exams feature a similar format, comprising approximately 200 questions, with the RMA exam slightly longer at 210 questions and a 2-hour time limit.
Exam costs are comparable, with the CMA fee set at $125 and the RMA at $120, plus a $90 retake fee. Both certifications cover essential clinical and administrative knowledge, and their pass rates reflect a competitive landscape, with RMAs achieving 73% in 2021.
Ultimately, both credentials are recognized equally in the industry, allowing holders to pursue similar job roles without significant pay differences.
5. Job Opportunities and Salary Insights
Medical assistants earn a median annual salary of $42,000, or about $20.19 per hour, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. With a projected job growth rate of 15% through 2031, this field is rapidly expanding, especially post-pandemic, as demand for skilled professionals increases across diverse healthcare settings.
6. Continuing Education and Certification Maintenance
Continuing education and certification maintenance are crucial for medical assistants aiming to advance their careers. While earning credentials like the Certificated Medical Assistant (CMA) or Registered Medical Assistant (RMA) is a significant step, ongoing education ensures that professionals stay updated with the latest practices and regulations in healthcare. This commitment to learning not only enhances their skills but also increases their employability and potential for higher salaries.
Both CMA and RMA credentials require different educational backgrounds, with the CMA typically necessitating a degree from an accredited program. Although certification is voluntary in most states, it is highly regarded and often preferred by employers. The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) mandate that credentialed medical assistants enter specific orders into electronic health records, further emphasizing the importance of maintaining certification through continuing education to meet industry standards.
- Credentials signify a professional’s education level and responsibilities in healthcare.
- CMA and RMA perform similar duties but have different educational requirements.
- Certification is voluntary but enhances job prospects and salary potential.
- Ongoing education is essential for career advancement and adaptability.
- CMS requires credentialed medical assistants for specific electronic health record tasks.
7. Employer Preferences and Industry Trends
Employer preferences in the healthcare industry often lean towards candidates with recognized credentials, such as the Certificated Medical Assistant (CMA) and Registered Medical Assistant (RMA). While both designations allow individuals to perform similar duties, the distinction lies in their educational backgrounds and training. Earning either credential can enhance career prospects, as many employers favor certified professionals for roles involving electronic health records (EHR).
The job outlook for medical assistants remains robust, with a projected growth rate of 15% by 2031, largely driven by increased demand following the pandemic. Although certification is voluntary in most states, having credentials like CMA or RMA can open doors to more job opportunities and potentially higher salaries. Employers may not have regional or specialty preferences for these certifications, but many medical assistants choose to obtain both to meet diverse employer requirements.
8. Making the Right Choice for You
When considering a career as a medical assistant, choosing between the Certificated Medical Assistant (CMA) and Registered Medical Assistant (RMA) credentials is crucial. While both certifications allow for similar job roles, the CMA typically requires graduation from an accredited program, whereas the RMA offers alternative paths like on-the-job experience. Earning either credential can enhance job prospects and salary potential, with a median annual salary around $42,000 and a projected job growth of 15% by 2031.
In conclusion, both the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) and Registered Medical Assistant (RMA) credentials are esteemed in the medical assisting profession, with similar roles and responsibilities. The key differences lie in their eligibility criteria and issuing organizations. While the CMA is more widely recognized, the RMA offers flexible certification pathways. Pursuing either credential can significantly boost career opportunities and earning potential in healthcare.
