Please take the time to read most of the posts in this forum. This question has been asked time and time again and there are some really good responses from a number of people without me having to reiterate the RMA vs CMA issue. I am not trying to be rude, but there is a lot in this forum about this topic and I just wish everyone would take some time and read the previous posts. You are missing a LOT of good information.
Yes, it is true that some places want only CMA certified by AAMA. However, please read the post about this issue if you are having difficulty acquiring a job that wants only AAMA certified personnel. You will be surprised and pleased with the answer.

Your Professional Title/Credentials: RMA(AMT), CMA(AAMA)

Are You Still In School? no

Are You Working? yes

Ditto, Suzy, and very well said. I agree.

Your Professional Title/Credentials: Website Owner/Forum Admin

I think that the training depends on the person! I am a CMA and I went to a school where I received extenuous training and knowledge of the medical field. I am a CMA and have been one for the past 4 years I know many RMA's that did not receive the knowledge that I have so it goes both ways. Both titles are equal however you have to go to an accredited school and take the CMA exam to become a CMA but with the RMA you can work in that field for five years and take the test to become one.

Your Professional Title/Credentials: CMA

Are You Still In School? Yes

Are You Working? Yes

The statement that you cannot sit for the RMA or CMA exam without graduating from an CAAHEP or ABHES accredited school was incorrect. AAMA requires that for the CMA exam. AMT requires that the school is accredited, but the program does not have to be separately accredited by CAAHEP or ABHES.

I would also caution students against "private colleges." These places transfer no credits in or out, unlike community/technical colleges, and cost upwards of $20,000 in comparison to $5500 at a community college. There is no requirement for an associate's degree and it often causes significat trouble for students that decide to go back and further their eductation later, such as acquiring a nursing degree, because financial aid doesn't want to pay for a second associate's degree. Students need to investigate their options better before opting to lose their money.

Our progam uses the RMA exam for our students because our employers cited it distingushed a difference from the "certified medication aide"(CMA)in the State and they really didn't know anything about the accrediting agencies, nor did they care to. We found the exam cost, membership fees and ease of exam scheduling, etc to be more beneficial to students. Either way, our State aligned all medical assistant programs with MAERB competencies which are required for CAAHEP accreditation so regardless of which type of program students are in, the core courses are the same (no they are not being sent out without anatomy, medical terminology, CPR traning, etc) whether they plan to sit for the RMA or CMA.

Your Professional Title/Credentials: RHIT, RMA/Instructor

Are You Still In School? No

Are You Working? Yes

Which credential is better depends on which is more recognized in the area of the country in which you want to work. Too bad it's like that because it can make it difficult if you decide you want to move. They are both just entry level credentials, though, so if you move upgrading is an option.

Your Professional Title/Credentials: RMA, CNA, CPhT

Are You Still In School? no

Are You Working? yes