Choose a CMA Training Program That Prepares You For the Certification Exam

A career in the medical field is a wise investment in your future. Careers in the healthcare industry offer excellent job security and good pay. What’s more, if you decide to become a medical assistant you won’t have to spend several years in school and take out monstrous loans, like most students who attend a traditional four-year college. Many medical assisting training programs can be completed in one year or less, so you can jumpstart your new career quickly.

As you begin to research schools, you will encounter various educational programs. Some of these programs have completed the process of accreditation, where an outside agency (accreditor) steps in to ensure that the institution or program meets appropriate standards of education. 

Although the process is optional for schools, it’s important to note that many employers only hire medical assistants with certification. To obtain certification, you must attend a medical assisting program that is accredited by the ABHES (Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools) or CAAHEP (Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs). It’s critical that the school you select is accredited, or you won’t be eligible to take the CMA exam. 

Attending a comprehensive, accredited CMA training program is worth the investment as it can help prepare you for taking the exam. There are many reasons why it’s so essential to attend an accredited program and become certified, including: 

Certification Gives Employers Assurance of Your Competence 

Most employers prefer to hire candidates who have graduated from an accredited school because it gives them assurance of your training, knowledge, and skills. These accrediting bodies require your 

training program to adhere to professional standards required to prepare you for the demands of the job. This means you are guaranteed labs and classes that will provide you with a thorough understanding of anatomy, physiology, and medical terminology, needed for success as a medical assistant. You’ll also learn through a hands-on curriculum how to properly administer injections, perform EKGs, and draw blood. You’ll learn the best skills and knowledge needed to confidently work with patients and assist healthcare professionals to the best of your abilities.

Certification Demonstrates Your Commitment to the Profession 

Taking that extra step to become certified after completing your CMA training program demonstrates your seriousness and commitment to the medical assisting profession. Potential employers are sure to take notice and will appreciate your hard work and dedication. If you want your resume to stand out, certification is key as it demonstrates a high level of professional competency employers trust and rely on, especially when deciding between two candidates. 

Certification Provides Greater Career Opportunities 

One of the most compelling reasons to get certified is that it opens a lot more doors in terms of career opportunities. It also leads to higher pay and benefits and job security. While certification may not be required in all states yet, many employers will only hire certified medical assistants, especially some of the larger facilities like hospitals. Plus, it’s always a possibility that certification could eventually become a requirement in the future. Why not take the extra step now while the material is still fresh on your mind, versus having to go back to school to become certified later?   

Ready to Get Started? 

The decision to go back to school is significant, as is finding the right school. The CMA program at Athena Career Academy is designed to teach students the skills needed for employment in the modern medical facility. Please contact us today to learn more about our comprehensive CMA training program.