Different Categories Of Medical Assistant Certification

As the demand for medical assistants is on the rise, it becomes essential to distinguish between various categories of certification. This article will shed light on some of the most common types of certification available in this field, and we took the help of the MedAssistantEdu team for creating this.

• AAMA Certification  – Recognized by all 50 states (including Washington D.C.) according to standards set by the  Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools, this certification represents that an individual has demonstrated competency in general skills and knowledge required by practising medical assistants nationwide. Certified medical assistants need to accumulate at least 75 hours of approved continuing education every three years to maintain their credentials.
• NCCT Certification – Offered through private organizations or companies recognized nationally as testing authorities, NCCT certification is available for medical assistants, nurses, and phlebotomists. The examination is based on the competencies required to perform various functions of these health care professions. To be eligible, one must have completed an accredited training program or meet specific criteria, including work experience in the field or successful completion of state boards.
• NHA Certification – To become a certified medical assistant through the National Healthcareer Association, one must meet these requirements: First, they must be at least 18 years old and have proof of graduation from high school or equivalent. Second, they must pass an entrance exam that contains three sections: reading comprehension, math, and basic computer knowledge. Third, candidates’ work experience should not be less than 200 hours in a combination of their training time and clinical practice. Finally, candidates need to provide proof of liability insurance for this type of position and complete 5 hours of continuing education every year.

Also important to note is that medical assistants can receive certification from both organizations at once without duplication or conflict between certification programs.

• AAPC Certification – This is the most widely accepted medical assistant certification offered by the American Association of Professional Coders. One must pass the required exam after completing a short educational program to be part of this organization’s network. The certification course for this profession includes: understanding and using ICD-9 and CPT/HCPCS coding systems, competencies in electronic claims submission, billing compliance, HIPAA standards, anatomy and physiology of body organ systems, basic insurance concepts, and cost containment strategies.

Another way to gain distinction as a certified professional is through passing the Certified Billing Service Representative (CBRS) examination, which means you will have comprehensive knowledge about electronic claims submission procedures. After completing this course, you will need to fulfil the continuing education requirements every year.

Finally, those who wish to become a Certified Professional Coder (CPC) should meet these prerequisites: The candidate must be at least 18 years of age and have a high school diploma or equivalent GED. They should also apply, including a non-refundable fee and official transcripts from an accredited training program that combines medical office administration and medical coding.

• AAAE Certification – The American Academy of Ambulatory Employers’ certification is available for those who already hold AAMA certification and pass their entrance exams. Applicants must be employed in ambulatory settings such as doctors’ offices, clinics, urgent care centres or similar medical practices.
• CAAHEP Certification – The Commission on Accreditation for Allied Health Education Programs offers this certification, available to medical assistants who are graduates of accredited educational programs that the Department of Education recognizes.
• NCCT-P Certification – Through this program, medical assistants can demonstrate their proficiency in preparing patients for procedures performed in OTs (Occupational Therapists), PTs (Physical Therapists), and SLPs (Speech-Language Pathologists).

The examination includes thorough knowledge about instruments used during surgical procedures, contact lenses and eye surgeries, sterilization techniques, and post-op care guidelines. To be eligible for NCCT certification with P designation, you must already hold NCCT certification without the P designation.

• First Aid Training – This is not a medical assistant certification but rather a separate instruction offered through organizations like the Red Cross, the American Heart Association, and even online tutorials. The course covers basic life support skills, including CPR, choking relief, and emergency management of wounds. Completion of this course provides documentation that proves competence with lifesaving skills needed in emergencies until further treatment can be administered.
• Medical Assistant Certification Vs. Certification – The U.S government does not offer certification of any kind to professionals in the medical field (including medical assistants), but rather each state maintains its guidelines for licensure and registry. Certification is offered through multiple organizations and serves as proof that an individual has met specific qualifications, including training hours, years of experience, a high degree of skillset competency, or successful completion of a qualifying examination.

The medical assistant profession offers different options to become certified. Therefore it is pretty easy to find a certification option that will best suit your needs and requirements. The benefits of being approved are many: you can get an edge in the job market, increase your salary potential, gain respect from employers, peers, and patients alike and enhance both your personal/professional image through these credentials.

Danny White