Introduction
Do you want to pursue a rewarding career in healthcare without spending years in medical school? If yes, then consider becoming a Registered Medical Assistant (RMA).
RMAs, just like doctors, nurses, and other emergency medical staff, are core members of the healthcare workforce. They help in clinics, hospitals, and private practices by providing assistance to physicians and ensuring smooth patient care operations simultaneously.
Now the real question is: how to become a medical assistant and land related jobs? This blog will walk you through every answer you need to know about becoming a successful Registered Medical Assistant, such as education, certifications, and job outlook.
What Is a Registered Medical Assistant (RMA)?
A Registered Medical Assistant is a certified professional who performs administrative and clinical tasks in a healthcare setting. The RMA is often a liaison between the doctor and the patient.
While duties vary depending on the specialty and the size of the practice, RMAs typically perform the following:
- Records patient history and personal information.
- Measure and record vital signs of the patients, e.g., blood pressure, heart rate, body temp, etc.
- Prepares patients for clinical examination
- Assists physicians with medical procedures.
- Draw blood samples for lab tests
- Manages patient data and necessary medical records.
- Schedule day-to-day appointments and visits.
- Carry out medical billing and coding for insurance purposes.
In addition, RMAs should also understand medical terminologies, clinical charts, and basic courtesy towards patients.
Why Become a Registered Medical Assistant?
RMAs are considered the backbone of healthcare settings. Therefore, choosing a career as a medical assistant offers many worthy benefits, such as:
- High Job Demand: Since the healthcare sector is expanding greatly, the demand for medical assistants has also increased.
- Meaningful Work: You’ll play a direct role in patient care, helping people feel comfortable and cared for during their medical visits.
- Relatively Quick Training: The training period for an RMA is shorter (approx. 1-2 years) when compared to other professions in the healthcare industry.
- Variety of Work Settings: RMAs can work in various environments. For example, doctor’s offices, hospitals, clinics, urgent care centers, and specialty practices.
- Stepping-Stone to Other Healthcare Careers: Many RMAs use their experience as an advantage to pursue higher education and seek other roles like registered nurse, physician assistant, or healthcare administrator.
Why Become a Registered Medical Assistant?
RMAs are considered the backbone of healthcare settings. Therefore, choosing a career as a medical assistant offers many worthy benefits, such as:
- High Job Demand: Since the healthcare sector is expanding greatly, the demand for medical assistants has also increased.
- Meaningful Work: You’ll play a direct role in patient care, helping people feel comfortable and cared for during their medical visits.
- Relatively Quick Training: The training period for an RMA is shorter (approx. 1-2 years) when compared to other professions in the healthcare industry.
- Variety of Work Settings: RMAs can work in various environments. For example, doctor’s offices, hospitals, clinics, urgent care centers, and specialty practices.
- Stepping-Stone to Other Healthcare Careers: Many RMAs use their experience as an advantage to pursue higher education and seek other roles like registered nurse, physician assistant, or healthcare administrator.
How to Become a Registered Medical Assistant: Step-by-Step
If you’re interested in becoming a medical assistant, then the following steps may help guide you to start your new career.
Step 1: Earn a High School Diploma or GED
The first and foremost step is to get a high school diploma or a GED. This is because these qualifications are the minimum requirements to get into most medical assistant programs.
Step 2: Complete a Medical Assisting Program
After earning a high school diploma, enroll in an accredited medical assisting program. These programs are typically offered at the following:
- Community Colleges: They provide associate degrees or diplomas.
- Vocational Schools: Offer diplomas or certificates focused on practical skills.
- Technical Schools: These are similar to vocational schools, with a strong emphasis on hands-on training.
Furthermore, when enrolling for the following program, make sure it is accredited by any of these recognized bodies:
- Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP).
- Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES).
What you’ll learn in a medical assisting program:
Typically, people enrolled in medical assisting programs will learn the following:
- Anatomy and Physiology
- Medical Terminology
- Pharmacology
- Medical Law and Ethics
- Clinical Procedures (e.g., phlebotomy, EKG, injections) .
- Administrative Procedures (e.g., medical billing and coding, electronic health records).
- Medical Office Management
Step 3: Gain Clinical Experience (Externship/Internship)
Most accredited medical assisting programs include a supervised externship or internship during training. This is because it allows you to apply your classroom knowledge in a real-world healthcare setting. And as a result, you get invaluable hands-on experience and a chance to build professional connections as well.
Step 4: Earn Your Registration/Certification
Getting an RMA certification through a recognized accrediting body not only enhances your job prospects but also demonstrates your competency. The primary organization that offers the RMA credential is the American Medical Technologists (AMT).
So, to become an RMA through AMT, you typically need to:
- Graduate from an AMT-approved medical assisting program.
- Pass the RMA (AMT) certification exam.
Other reputable certifications include the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA), which is offered by the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA). While both are highly respected, the RMA (AMT) specifically refers to the AMT credential.
Step 5: Maintain Your Certification
To keep your RMA certification current, you’ll need to participate in continuing education activities. This ensures you stay updated on the latest medical practices, technologies, and regulations.
Key Skills for a Successful Registered Medical Assistant
Besides your formal training, certain personal qualities will help you excel as an RMA:
- Strong Communication Skills: Essential for interacting with patients, doctors, and other healthcare professionals.
- Attention to Detail: Crucial for accurate record-keeping, medication administration, and lab procedures.
- Empathy and Compassion: To provide comfort and support to patients, especially during stressful times.
- Organizational Skills: To manage appointments, patient flow, and administrative tasks efficiently.
- Problem-Solving Abilities: To address unexpected situations and resolve issues effectively.
- Technical Proficiency: Comfort using electronic health records (EHR) and other medical software.
Registered Medical Assistant vs Certified Medical Assistant
When researching medical assisting careers, you’ll often encounter two prominent credentials: Registered Medical Assistant (RMA) and Certified Medical Assistant (CMA). While both demonstrate a high level of competency and are widely recognized, they are issued by different organizations:
- Registered Medical Assistant (RMA): This credential is offered by the American Medical Technologists (AMT). The RMA exam covers a broad range of administrative and clinical competencies essential for medical assistants.
- Certified Medical Assistant (CMA): This credential is offered by the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA). The CMA exam also assesses a comprehensive understanding of medical assisting duties.
However, both certifications are highly respected within the healthcare industry and demonstrate that an individual has met national standards of knowledge and skills. Many employers accept either credential, so choosing which exam to pursue often depends on the accreditation of your program and your personal preference.
Career Outlook and Salary
As the demand for healthcare services continues to rise, Registered Medical Assistants enjoy strong job prospects across the country. However, understanding the expected salary and growth trends can help you plan your future in this rewarding field.
- Job Growth: According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, medical assistant jobs will grow 15% from 2022 to 2032.
- Average Salary: The typical annual salary for medical assistants was $44,200 per year (as of mid-2024, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics)
- Top Industries Hiring:
- Physician offices
- Hospitals
- Outpatient care centers
- Chiropractic clinics
- Additionally, if you want to know about other healthcare jobs and opportunities, click here.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, becoming a Registered Medical Assistant can be a smart and rewarding career choice, especially for those who don’t want to (or cannot afford) go to med school. RMAs play an important role in helping doctors and caring for patients in hospitals, clinics, and medical offices. However, with proper education, training, and certification, you can start your career in just 1–2 years and grow further in the healthcare field.
So, if you’re passionate about helping others and enjoy both clinical and office work, this could be the perfect path for you. Research accredited medical assisting programs in your area or explore platforms like HealthCareTalentLink to connect with healthcare professionals and kickstart your journey as an RMA today!
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to become a registered medical assistant?
Most students can complete training and certification within 12 to 24 months.
Do I need a degree to become an RMA?
No, you don’t need a degree. You can become an RMA with a certificate or diploma from an accredited medical assisting program.
Can I work as a medical assistant without certification?
Some states or employers may allow it, but having an RMA certification greatly improves your chances of getting hired and earning a better salary.
Are there growth opportunities in this career?
Yes! Many RMAs go on to become nurses, physician assistants, or medical office managers with additional education and experience.
