Here you will find all the info, forms, and contacts needed to start working as a CMA in Arkansas.
Reports by the Bureau of Labor Statistics show Arkansas possessing 2,900 medical assistants who earn $28,750 annually on average. The BLS also estimates the occupation to expand fast gaining a 23 per cent increase between 2014 and 2024.
More CMA Info for Arkansas:
See Medical Assistant Certification by state
Medical Assistant Certification in Arkansas
The Arkansas Medical Board details strict regulations over the functions of medical assistants.
To be competitive as a medical assistant in Arkansas you will want to earn certification as many employers require certification. The AMA (American Medical Association) acknowledges 2 certificates for medical assistants, the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) and the RMA – Registered Medical Assistant. Possessing either certification will significantly increase your work options and payment.
The American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA) is the organization that offers the certification giving official credentials of CMA. To complete a RMA certification, you must complete the certificate process offered by AMT (American Medical Technologists). The table just below displays the requirements for both the RMA and CMA certifications.
Certification Requirement | CMA | RMA |
|---|---|---|
| Meet 1 of the eligibility requirements. (CMA requires graduating a CAAHEP or ABHES accredited program, RMA also offers eligibility from military education, work experience and instructing.) | View Eligibility Details | View Eligibility Details |
| Submit required supporting documentation for exam application process. | Documents | Documents |
| Apply for exam and pay application fee. | Application, $125 | Application, $120 |
| Schedule your exam date. | Schedule | Schedule |
| Complete your exam. (Upon completion, the CMA exam will show whether you pass/failed immediately and RMA exams taken online will provide your actual score immediately.) | Yes | Yes |
| Wait 8-10 weeks (CMA candidates will receive official test scores at this time and RMA candidates will receive their certification.) | Yes | Yes |
| Passing CMA applicants then wait another 10 weeks after receiving scores to receive their certification and card. | Yes | No |
| You have the ability to retest if you fail for both the CMA and RMA | Retest info | Retest info |
| Continuing Education, membership fees, and recertification are required for both the CMA and RMA | Recertify info | Recertify info |
ARSMA Board Contact Info
For more info straight from the Arkansas Society of Medical Assistants, a local professional organization for MAs in Arkansas, visit their website.
Medical Assistants
Melinda Rhynes, M.Ed., CMA (AAMA)
Why Be a CMA in Arkansas?
Arkansas is a beautiful state offering a few options for CMA accredited programs. With nearly 3,000 medical assistants employed, there is a job market for CMAs in Arkansas. Learn more about CMA schools and salaries in Arkansas with the links below.
