All that you need to get started as a medical assistant in Illinois is on this page. The Bureau of Labor Statistic’s census statistics reveals 18,940 medical assistants working in Illinois and earning an annual salary of $31,970 on average. Also, the field is boasting an estimated 23% growth rate through 2024.
More CMA Info for Illinois:
See Medical Assistant Certification by state
Medical Assistant Certification in Illinois
The Illinois state legislature and Medical Board don’t regulate medical assistant licensing. However, in order to compete as a medical assistant in Illinois you may want to become certified as most employers require a certificate. The American Medical Association (AMA) accepts two certifications for medical assistants, the CMA – Certified Medical Assistant and the Registered Medical Assistant (RMA). Possessing one of the certifications will considerably enhance your career options and earnings.
The AAMA – American Association of Medical Assistants is the agency that provides the certificate granting CMA credentials. To attain a RMA certification, you must follow the certification process offered by AMT – American Medical Technologists. The table 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 |
ISMA Board Contact Info
The Illinois Society of Medical Assistants provides networking opportunities as well as useful info and resources here on their chapter website.
Medical Assistants
Rebecca (Becky) Cruse, CMA (AAMA)
Why Be a CMA in Illinois?
When deciding to become a medical assistant in Illinois it is helpful to know your school options and earnings potential. The following links will help you research accredited MA programs and average salaries in Illinois.
