Unit 1 Chapter 1

Career Growth in Medical Assisting

The U.S. Department of Labor projects an 18% growth in medical assisting between 2020 and 2030.

Responsibilities of a Medical Assistant

Includes clinical tasks, specialty-specific duties, laboratory work, and administrative tasks.

AAMA

American Association of Medical Assistants, founded in 1955, raises professional standards and provides legal information.

CMA Credential

Certified Medical Assistant credential offered by the AAMA.

AMT

American Medical Technologists, a non-profit certification agency established in 1939.

RMA

Registered Medical Assistant certification offered by the AMT.

NHA

National Healthcareer Association, established in 1989 to provide certification and continuing education.

CCMA

Certified Clinical Medical Assistant, a certification offered by the NHA.

Types of Credentials for Medical Assistants

Includes certification, registration, and licensure.

Certification

Granted by organizations to show qualification for a job; voluntary in Georgia for MA positions.

Accreditation of MA Educational Programs

Ensures programs meet competency-based standards and undergo evaluations.

CAAHEP

Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs, one of the recognized accreditors for MA programs.

Vocational Technical Programs for Medical Assistants

Duration: 1 year; outcome: Certification with High School Diploma.

Community College Programs for Medical Assistants

Duration: 2 years; outcome: Associate's Degree with practicum/externship.

Licensure for Medical Assistants

Not required for MAs but issued by state boards for certain healthcare professions.