How to Become Nationwide Certified Medical Assistant
A nationwide certified medical assistant has the training, skills and certification to work across the United States. These individuals assist doctors with more complicated procedures than nurses do. These individuals work directly with patients, preparing them for their appointment with the doctor. In some cases they even do work before the doctor arrives such as drawing blood, taking blood pressure and getting background information from the patient. Becoming a certified medical assistant involves finishing school and taking the exam.
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Instructions
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Attend classes at an accredited school, studying a medical assisting program. The Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools and the Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs both license and approve these schools. The exam to become a certified medical assistant is only open to those who graduate from one of these programs.
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Graduate with a degree in medical assisting. During the program you'll study a number of different areas including human anatomy, pharmacology, clinical procedures and first aid. These are all skills you'll need to know to take the test and things you'll need in your future career.
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Apply to take the certification exam through the American Association of Medical Assistants. This exam was once only offered a few times a year, but it's now offered more frequently. The AAMA began offering the exam throughout the year starting in 2009. You'll need to pay the fee to take the exam.
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Schedule an appointment time to take the test. Once you submit your application and pay the fee, you'll receive a permit in the mail that allows you to pick a testing center and a time. The AAMA recommends picking a time as soon as possible to guarantee that you receive your choice.
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Take the test and receive a passing grade. A passing grade awards you the rank of certified medical assistant and this transfers into all 50 states. You'll be able to work as a nationwide certified medical assistant as long as you pass the test and have your degree in hand.
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Tips & Warnings
If you wait too long to schedule your testing appointment after receiving your permit, the testing center might not have a slot open when you need one. When this happens, you'll have to take the times they have available.
