Although medical assistant certification in California is not a legal requirement, employers likely will require it. All procedures, required steps, forms, fees, and state contacts are on this page to help you begin your career as a certified medical assistant in California.
The Bureau of Labor Statistic’s most current report shows 82,830 medical assistants working in California earning an average annual salary of $35,440 with an estimated national growth of 23 percent from 2014 by 2024.
More CMA Info for California:
See Medical Assistant Certification by state
Medical Assistant Certification in California
The Medical Board of California regulates medical assisting in the state.
Though you can lawfully be employed as a Medical Assistant in California without certification, to be competitive in the marketplace most Medical Assistants are certified because many employers often require a certificate. Additionally, if trained on the job rather than in an accredited medical assistant program one must meet the California Certifying Board for Medical Assistants requirements.
The American Medical Association – AMA accepts 2 certificates for medical assistants, the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) and the RMA – Registered Medical Assistant. Possessing one of the certifications will considerably improve your job possibilities and compensation.
The American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA) is the organization that offers the certification granting CMA status. To complete a RMA certification, you need to complete the certificate steps offered by American Medical Technologists (AMT). The following chart displays the requisites to obtain a CMA or RMA certificate.
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 |
CMAA Board Contact Info
The California Medical Assistants Association offers information and resources for medical assistants on their website here.
Medical Assistants Association
Susan Gouig, CCMA-AC
Why Be a Medical Assistant in California? ☀️
Imagine yourself in Sunny California relaxing with a nice cold beverage after work on Venice Beach, ah it sounds nice.
Well, a lot of other medical assistants think so too, a BLS report shows 82,830 medical assistants employed in California making it one of the largest states for medical assisting. Below are some benefits to medical assisting in California:
- High demand: California’s growing population and diverse healthcare landscape create a strong demand for skilled medical assistants, offering numerous job opportunities and career stability.
- Competitive compensation: Medical assistants in California enjoy competitive salaries, especially in metropolitan areas, enabling them to achieve a comfortable standard of living. Compensation for CMAs in California is very competitive with some of the highest CMA salaries in the US. Go and compare CMA Salaries in California.
- Career advancement: Working as a medical assistant in California allows individuals to gain valuable experience in the healthcare industry, providing a solid foundation for potential career progression into more specialized roles such as nursing or healthcare administration.
- Many Program Options: For those looking into medical assisting schools, there are plenty of medical assistant programs in California for you to consider.
More CMA Info for California:
See Medical Assistant Certification by state
California Medical Assistant Certification
Besides getting to live in “sunny California” there are many great reasons to consider becoming a medical assistant in California.
The rest of this page will provide more information about getting a Medical Assistant Certification in California, the process of becoming a certified medical assistant, and the various career opportunities available for certified professionals.
Whether you are a student considering a career as a medical assistant or a professional looking to advance in your career, obtaining the necessary certification will enhance your qualifications and open doors to a rewarding career in the healthcare industry.
What is a Medical Assistant Certification?
Medical Assistant certification is a process that validates the skills and knowledge of individuals who want to work as medical assistants in the state of California. It is a way for employers to ensure that medical assistants have met the necessary standards and are competent to perform their duties.
Certification is typically obtained through the California Certifying Board for Medical Assistants (CCBMA), which is responsible for administering certification exams and maintaining the certification process.
Why should you become a Certified Medical Assistant in California?
Becoming a certified medical assistant in California offers several benefits. Firstly, certification enhances your professional credibility and demonstrates your commitment to the field.
Certified medical assistants have a higher chance of getting hired and may receive better job offers than non-certified individuals. Furthermore, certification can lead to increased job security and advancement opportunities in the medical field.
How to Become a Certified Medical Assistant?
To become a certified medical assistant in California, you must complete a medical assisting program from an accredited institution. These programs provide the necessary education and training to develop the skills required for a successful career as a medical assistant.
Medical Assistant Programs in California
Choosing the Best Medical Assistant Program
When selecting a medical assistant program in California, there are several factors to consider. Look for programs that are accredited by recognized organizations such as the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) or the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES).
Skills and Knowledge Required for a Medical Assistant Program
A medical assisting program in California typically covers a wide range of subjects, including anatomy, physiology, medical terminology, medical office procedures, and pharmacology. In addition to theoretical knowledge, students also receive hands-on training to develop clinical and administrative skills.
Accredited Medical Assistant Programs in California
There are numerous accredited medical assistant programs in California that provide comprehensive training. Some well-known institutions include the California College San Diego, American Career College, and Carrington College.
How to get Certified as a Medical Assistant in California
Requirements to Become a Certified Medical Assistant in California
To become a certified medical assistant in California, you must meet certain requirements set by the California Certifying Board for Medical Assistants. These requirements include completing an accredited medical assisting program, submitting an application for certification, and passing the certification exam.
Steps to take the Certification Exam in California
The certification exam for medical assistants in California is administered by the California Certifying Board for Medical Assistants. The exam assesses your knowledge and skills in areas such as patient care, medical office management, and medical procedures. It is important to prepare for the exam by studying the relevant materials and practicing sample questions.
Benefits of being a Certified Medical Assistant in California
Becoming a certified medical assistant in California offers several benefits. Firstly, certification enhances your professional credibility and demonstrates your commitment to the field.
Certified medical assistants have a higher chance of getting hired and may receive better job offers than non-certified individuals. Furthermore, certification can lead to increased job security and advancement opportunities in the medical field.
Career Opportunities for Certified Medical Assistants in California
Job Prospects for Certified Medical Assistants in California
The demand for certified medical assistants in California is expected to grow in the coming years. As the healthcare industry expands, there will be a need for qualified professionals to assist in clinical and administrative tasks. Certified medical assistants have excellent job prospects, especially in hospitals, clinics, and other medical facilities.
Advancement opportunities for Certified Medical Assistants
Certified medical assistants in California have numerous opportunities for career advancement. With additional education and training, they can specialize in areas such as phlebotomy, EKG, or medical office management. Furthermore, some medical assistants may choose to pursue further education and become physician assistants or registered nurses.
Salary Potential for Certified Medical Assistants in California
The salary of a certified medical assistant in California can vary depending on factors such as experience, location, and the type of medical facility. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for medical assistants in California is $38,040. However, with additional experience and specialization, medical assistants can earn higher salaries.
Conclusion
Obtaining Medical Assistant Certification in California is a crucial step for individuals pursuing a career as a medical assistant. Certification not only validates your skills and knowledge but also opens up numerous career opportunities for advancement and higher salaries. Whether you are just starting your journey or looking to enhance your qualifications, becoming a certified medical assistant in California is a wise investment in your future in the healthcare industry.
Q: What is medical assistant certification in California?
A: Medical assistant certification in California refers to the process of obtaining professional recognition and credentials as a qualified medical assistant in the state of California.
Q: How do I become a medical assistant in California?
A: To become a medical assistant in California, you need to complete a medical assistant training program that is approved by the Medical Board of California.
Q: What is the best medical assistant training program in California?
A: There are many medical assistant training programs in California, and the best program for you will depend on your individual needs and goals. It is recommended to research and compare different programs to find the one that suits you best.
Q: What skills do I need to become a medical assistant?
A: To become a medical assistant, you need a combination of administrative and clinical skills. These may include medical terminology, patient care, medical office procedures, medical billing and coding, and basic clinical procedures.
Q: Can I start a medical assisting career without certification?
A: While certification is not legally required to work as a medical assistant in California, many employers prefer to hire candidates who have completed a certified medical assistant training program and have obtained certification.
Q: How long does it take to complete a medical assisting training program?
A: The duration of a medical assisting training program can vary depending on the school and program you choose. Generally, it can take anywhere from 6 months to 2 years to complete a program.
Q: What is the scope of practice for a medical assistant in California?
A: The scope of practice for a medical assistant in California includes both administrative and clinical duties. However, it is important to note that the specific tasks that a medical assistant can perform may vary depending on factors such as training, experience, and supervision.
Q: How do I get certified as a medical assistant in California?
A: To get certified as a medical assistant in California, you need to pass a certification exam. The exam is usually administered by recognized certification organizations such as the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA) or the California Certifying Board for Medical Assistants (CCBMA).
Q: Is a diploma or a certificate program required to become a medical assistant in California?
A: While a diploma or certificate program is not legally required to become a medical assistant in California, completing a formal training program will drastically increase your job prospects and earning potential.
Q: How do I verify my medical assistant certification in California?
A: You can verify your medical assistant certification in California by checking with the California Certifying Board for Medical Assistants (CCBMA) or the certifying organization through which you obtained your certification.
