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National Certified Medical Assistant

What is the difference between being CMA or a NCMA(National Certified Medical Assistant)?

I live in Las Vegas, NV and one employer told me you can make more money if you become a NCMA.

Please explain the difference?

Kim

Are You Still In School? yes

Are You Working? yes

Re: National Certified Medical Assistant

Hi Kim. Some schools tell you you are a CMA when you graduate the program. THAT IS NOT TRUE! The only way to become a CMA (which means NATIONALLY Certified Medical Assistant) is to sit for the AAMA (American Association of Medical Assistants)exam and pass it. The N in front of the credential is not required if the title is used correctly. To stay certified you must complete 60 hours of continuing ed every 5 yrs or retake the test. It is ILLEGAL to use the CMA title if you have not passed the AAMA exam. Please refer to their web site for info testing, etc. Hope this was helpful! Jaime

Your Professional Title/Credentials: CMA, RPT

Are You Still In School? NO

Are You Working? Yes, instructor

Re: National Certified Medical Assistant

Yes, reiterate for new medical assistants...graduating from a program and receiving a certificate in medical assisting does not translate to being a certified medical assistant. You must take a nationally recognized comprehensive examination- either by the AAMA for the "CMA-Certified Medical Assistant" credential or by the AMT for the "RMA-Registered Medical Assistant" credential. Both credentials mean the same and are recognized by each organization.
Some employers will say that having a credential will earn you more money. Others use it as a condition for employment, in order to attract qualified MA's, but may not necessarily pay more money. However, generally, an employer that requires a credential will be paying above the average in your area.

Your Professional Title/Credentials: MA, ATA

Are You Still In School? No

Are You Working? Yes