What credentials does a medical assistant need?

A medical assistant is not required to be certified in order to be employed. However, certification from the American Association of Medical Assistants does increase a medical assistant's hireability. Many states require certification in order for medical assistants to perform certain duties such as drawing blood and performing X-rays.

Certified medical assistants can obtain a license from the American Association of Medical Assistants. To qualify for a license, the potential CMA must obtain a degree from a post-secondary medical assisting program accredited by either the U.S. Department of Education or the Council for Higher Education Accreditation. A CMA must also pass the CMA certification examination issued through the National Board of Medical Examiners. CMAs must be recertified every 60 months through continuing education or examination.