Medical assistant accreditation goes beyond a school’s institutional approval. Programs like the one at Hunter Business School may also be programmatically accredited, which may help when pursuing various medical assisting certifications.
Becoming certified demonstrates the skills that healthcare employers value. Each credentialing agency sets its own standards, and the best option depends on your long-term goals.
What Is the Best Accreditation for Medical Assistants?
CMA accreditation from the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA) is among the most respected credentials for medical assistants. It’s widely recognized by employers and may help your resume stand out in a competitive job market.
Holding a CMA certificate shows that you’ve met strict academic and practical expectations. The exam is regularly updated to reflect the latest standards in healthcare, with topics such as:
- Medical terminology
- Anatomy and physiology
- Pathology
- Pharmacology
- Infection control
- Clinical and lab procedures
- Patient safety and privacy
- Communication
- Software and administrative tools
- Medical accounting
- Coding and insurance procedures
- Legal and ethical guidelines
- Customer care concepts
The AAMA works closely with healthcare employers to maintain the exam’s relevance. You’ll also stay current after certification by completing continuing education, which helps your qualification stay valuable over time.
The exam is structured into four 40-minute sections and consists of 200 multiple-choice questions. There’s no hands-on skills assessment, and you’ll have the option of a break between segments.
CMA Exam Pass Rate and Process
Once the exam is complete, you’ll find out whether you passed or not right away. The current first-time pass rate is around 76%. While official certification paperwork arrives a few weeks later, employers can verify your status instantly.
If you don’t pass on your first try, you can take the test again (up to two more times) with a report showing which areas need improvement.
CMA Recertification Process
CMA credentials must be renewed every five years through continuing education or by retaking the exam. The AAMA supports its members with online courses, seminars, and tools to stay certified. As one of the largest organizations in the field, it also plays an important role in developing certification standards and exam content.
The AAMA’s Legacy in Medical Assisting
The AAMA has been a driving force in medical assisting education since launching the first CMA exam in 1963. Today, it helps set curriculum guidelines for more than 450 accredited medical assistant programs across the U.S.
The third Wednesday of October is National Medical Assistants Day, thanks to the AAMA’s advocacy for the profession. Whether you pursue CMA accreditation or simply join as a member, the benefits are significant.
Other Accredited Medical Assistant Certifications
In addition to CMA certification, many medical assistant graduates consider other credentials that may offer flexibility or a different focus.
Registered Medical Assistant (RMA)
The RMA certification, offered by American Medical Technologists (AMT), is a strong choice for students who trained through military service or non-accredited programs. AMT has been certifying professionals since 1939 and is globally recognized.
The RMA exam is two hours long, with 210 multiple-choice questions covering:
- Anatomy and physiology
- Administrative duties
- Clinical procedures
- Patient care
You’ll receive your score immediately, and official certification typically arrives in under two weeks. If needed, you can retake the exam up to three times, with a 45-day gap between attempts.
To stay certified, you’ll pay a small annual fee and submit continuing education credits every three years. AMT membership also provides educational and networking benefits.
National Certified Medical Assistant (NCMA)
The NCMA credential is awarded by the National Center for Competency Testing (NCCT), which certifies medical assistants and other allied health professionals.
The exam includes 150 questions across eight knowledge areas:
- Pharmacology
- Phlebotomy
- Clinical procedures
- General office tasks
- Diagnostic testing
- Insurance and billing
- Medical law and ethics
- Office management
You’ll have up to three hours to complete the test. Scores are available right away, and in 2021, the first-time pass rate was 57%. Recertification is required annually, and NCCT membership includes online continuing education modules.
How to Prepare for Medical Assistant Accreditation
Graduating from a vocational school like Hunter Business School is one of the best ways to prepare for CMA accredited courses or other certifications. Even if you have hands-on experience, structured training helps deepen your understanding of important medical topics.
Accredited schools develop their programs in partnership with healthcare providers to match current needs. This improves your ability to pass exams and succeed in real-world settings. You’ll also build confidence and test-taking strategies through your coursework.
Medical assistant training programs also offer personal guidance. From study groups to application assistance and pre-test workshops, schools support students throughout the process. Many certification agencies provide exam preparation materials, and schools can help students with testing accommodations.
Why Certification Matters
Medical assistant accreditation provides a competitive edge when applying for jobs. Certification proves that you’re committed and capable in a healthcare setting. While AMT and NCCT offer respected options, CMA accreditation is considered the gold standard by many.
Learn More About Hunter Business School’s Accredited Program
The Medical Assistant program at Hunter Business School prepares students in three learning areas: cognitive (knowledge), psychomotor (skills), and affective (professionalism). Students gain hands-on experience during a 160-hour externship at a working medical facility.
The program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (9355 – 113th St. N, #7709 Seminole, FL 33775), based on recommendations from the Medical Assisting Education Review Board (MAERB).
Interested in getting certified and starting a rewarding healthcare career on Long Island, New York?
Contact Hunter Business School today to learn more about the Medical Assistant program and how it can help you get started.