Certified Medical Assistant – CMA (AAMA)
By Raising Careers Staff | Updated: August 2019
OVERVIEW
Certification Description
The Certified Medical Assistant (AAMA) credential, frequently called CMA, validates a medical assistant who has passed the respective certification issued by the Certifying Board of the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA). The AAMA states that this certification has been been tested in a wide scope of general, clinical, and administrative responsibilities.
This certification is one of the widely required certifications for the profession of the medical assistant.
Skills Focus
The certification focuses on the following areas:
- Human anatomy, physiology, and pathology
- Medical terminology
- Keyboarding and computer application
- Record keeping and accounting
- Coding and insurance processing
- Laboratory techniques
- Clinical and diagnose procedures
- Pharmacology
- Medication administration
- First aid
- Office practices
- Patient relations
- Medical law and ethics
Exam Objectives
Download the exam objectives for the CMA (AAMA) certification.
Exam Details
- Issuing Organization: American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA)
- Prerequisites: Completion of a CAAHEP or ABHES medical assisting program
- Questions: 200 (180 scored, 20 pre-tested)
- Time: 195 minutes
- Cost: $125 for AAMA members, $250 for non-members
- Re-certification and certification renewal: Every 5 years
- Download CMA (AAMA) Handbook
Other relevant details: N/A
CMA (AAMA) Careers
Certified Medical Assistant Careers
Jobs you can get with a CMA (AAMA) certification (additional requirements may apply):
Salary (Base Level)
A specialty certification may not only increase your employability, but may increase your earnings potential as well. Keep in mind that your actual salary can vary substantially depending on region, job description and employer expectations. Reference salary for the Medical Assistant shown. Salary based on 2019 data.
National average per year: $32,480*
National average per hour: $15.92*
*Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics
CMA (AAMA) Training
Exam Preparation
- Use the CMA (AAMA) content outline
- Take the CMA (AAMA) practice exam
- Study using study guides, books and ebooks
- Take a review course offered by an accredited CAAHEP or ABHES medical assigns
program, or a local chapter of the AAMA - Brush up on anatomy and physiology knowledge as well as medical terminology
- Know common drugs
Important: This is not a complete list of all certification training and learning options available. Remember to thoroughly research and choose study materials that fit your learning style and needs. This step is crucial to help you succeed in your certification exam.
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