How to become a CMA?

To become a CMA, you must have a high school diploma or equivalent and complete a certified assisting training program that is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) or the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES). Many vocational schools and community colleges offer these programs; certificate programs typically take one year to complete, while associate degree programs usually last two years. These programs provide training in lab techniques, medical terminology, patient confidentiality, and medical office procedures. Once you complete your schooling, you are eligible to take the certified medical assistant licensing exam offered by the Certifying Board of the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA). You must attend an accredited program and pass the licensing exam to become a CMA. While you do not need to be certified to work as a medical assistant, many employers prefer CMAs due to the rigorous standards required to earn certification.