RMA vs. CMA: Comparing Medical Assistant Certifications

Medical assistants perform essential administrative and clinical tasks in health care. With the medical assisting field projected to grow by 15%  and over 118,000 new jobs expected between 2023 and 2033, pursuing certification can give candidates a competitive edge. Two of the most recognized certifications are the Registered Medical Assistant and Certified Medical Assistant. This article compares the key differences between RMA vs. CMA certifications, helping students make informed decisions as they begin their medical assistant careers.

What Is a Medical Assistant?

A medical assistant performs administrative and clinical tasks in a health care setting, such as a doctor's office, clinic, or hospital. Their responsibilities vary depending on the size and type of facility they work in. Key administrative duties include scheduling appointments, managing patient records, handling insurance paperwork, and billing. The role also includes clinical tasks, such as taking patient vital signs, drawing blood, preparing patients for exams, assisting during procedures, administering medications, and educating patients about treatment plans. 

Medical assistants play a crucial role in ensuring that health care facilities run smoothly, supporting the medical team and patients. They need a diverse skill set, including knowledge of medical terminology, basic clinical procedures, and strong interpersonal skills for interacting with patients.

Related: Medical Assistant Duties
 

Medical Assistant Education

Medical Assistant education typically involves completing a post-secondary program that prepares students for clinical and administrative tasks in health care settings. Passing the CMA or RMA exams may be a precursor to working as a medical assistant, and many people pursue formal training through accredited programs to enter the field. 

Certificate or Diploma Program

These programs focus on the core skills that medical assistants require, such as clinical procedures, medical billing, and basic anatomy. Concorde's diploma or associate degree consists of online general education courses. The diploma program may offer opportunities for externships for foundational hands-on training. Students can complete the diploma program in a few as nine months.

Coursework

Coursework typically includes anatomy and physiology, medical terminology, phlebotomy, EKG monitoring, infection control, and administrative duties such as medical coding and insurance billing. Some programs also offer hands-on training through internships or externships in medical facilities. 

After completing their education, graduates can pursue certification exams such as the CMA or RMA. These exams may improve a candidate's job prospects.

Read a Success Spotlight: It's Never Too Late: How Chantel Reinvented Herself at Concorde
 

What are RMA and CMA Certifications?

The American Medical Technologists institution has offered the RMA certification since 1972. The RMA is a respected credential recognized across the health care industry. The American Association of Medical Assistants offers CMA certification. Health care professionals often consider the CMA, established in 1963, the “gold standard” of medical assistant certifications due to its rigorous requirements. Both certifications have National Commission for Certifying Agencies accreditation. They are recognized nationally and have credibility within the health care industry.
 

Eligibility Requirements

For RMA certification, candidates must have graduated from an accredited program within the last four years or have three years of full-time medical assistant employment within the past seven years (equal to 5,616 hours). Those pursuing the work experience route must hold a valid CPR card. 

For the CMA certification, candidates must complete an accredited training program, such as an associate degree, diploma, or certificate. CMA applicants must graduate or be close to graduating from a program with CAAHEP or ABHES accreditation.
 

Certification Renewal

To maintain RMA certification, medical assistants need to renew every three years through the Certification Continuation Program. This includes earning 30 points via qualifying activities and paying an annual fee of $75. Medical assistants can earn points through the AMT or independently. Qualifying activities include the following :

• Professional training completed through an employer, certifying organization, or online provider
• College courses relating to the certification or in a health care field
• Scholarly works relating to the certification or health care field
• Presentations relevant to the certification or other health care field
• Active and formal participation on a committee relating to the certification or health care field

CMA certification renewal occurs every five years and requires earning 60 CEUs — 30 from an AAMA-approved continuing education, 10 administrative, 10 clinical, 10 general, and 30 from a combination of the medical assistant's choosing. Alternatively, medical assistants can take the CMA recertification exam. Maintaining certification ensures that medical assistants stay current with industry standards. There is also a renewal fee of $125 for AAMA members or $250 for non-members. Qualifying activities include the following :

• Tests based on articles candidates read online
• AAMA self-study courses
• Attendance at the AAMA Annual Conference
• CPR card acquisition
• AAMA-approved CE programs

Which Certification Should You Choose?

Choosing between a CMA vs. RMA certification depends on career goals, state requirements, and personal preferences. While most employers accept either certification, some states may have specific requirements. For example, Washington requires both licensure and certification, while New Jersey and South Dakota require certification for performing injections. The CMA credential may hold more weight in highly competitive environments, as it has stricter eligibility criteria.

Ultimately, registered medical assistant vs. certified medical assistant certifications open doors to a fulfilling career in medical assisting. Consider your options, the recognition each certification holds in your region, and your long-term career aspirations when making a decision.
 

Take the Next Step Today

Whether you choose the registered medical assistant or certified medical assistant route, both certifications provide the potential to excel in a growing field. Each credential demonstrates your commitment to patient care, preparing you for a successful career as a medical assistant. To explore further and research programs, speak with industry professionals to find the path that's right for you. Contact our admissions team for more information on the Medical Assistant Program at Concorde.