How to Be Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Jun 17, 2022 / 6 Minutes Read / By Albert

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The Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) credential is increasingly becoming a prerequisite for employment in the medical field. Earning a CMA certification can open doors to a variety of career opportunities, and allow one to increase their income potential. With the demand for medical assistants in the US expected to grow by 23 percent by 2026, becoming a CMA can provide job security, as well as potential for advancement and career growth.

In order to become certified, one must complete an accredited program, pass an exam, and meet any state requirements. Once they have fulfilled all of these requirements, they can enjoy the benefits of increased job opportunities and higher wages that come with the CMA certification.

Steps How to Become

Obtain a High School Diploma or GED. The first step to becoming a Certified Medical Assistant is to obtain a high school diploma or GED. This is an important step because it will give you the foundation for the skills and knowledge you need to succeed in the medical field.
Earn a Medical Assisting Certification. Once you have your high school diploma or GED, the next step is to earn a medical assisting certification. There are several different types of certifications available, so make sure to research which one is best for you.
Complete a Medical Assisting Program. The third step is to complete a medical assisting program. These programs typically last one to two years and provide students with the necessary knowledge and skills to become a Certified Medical Assistant.
Take and Pass the CMA Exam. Once you have completed your medical assisting program, you must take and pass the CMA exam. This exam tests your knowledge and skills in the medical field and is required for certification.
Become Registered with Your State. The final step is to become registered with your state as a Certified Medical Assistant. This registration is usually required by employers and allows you to practice as a CMA in your state.

Aspiring Certified Medical Assistants (CMAs) must take the necessary steps to become reliable and competent in their field. Earning the CMA credential requires completing a formal medical assistant education program and passing a certification exam. After completion of the educational program and exam, CMAs can gain experience in the field through an externship or entry-level position.

This experience helps CMAs learn how to properly perform medical procedures, develop communication skills and practice effective time management. CMAs must continually keep up with industry standards and medical advances by taking continuing education courses to maintain their certification. This commitment to staying up-to-date further demonstrates the reliability and competence of CMAs.

By taking the necessary steps of obtaining a formal education, gaining experience and keeping up with industry knowledge, CMAs can become reliable and competent in their field.

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Job Description

Assist physicians and other medical staff members in providing patient care services, including taking vital signs, administering injections, drawing blood, and providing wound care.
Prepare exam and treatment rooms with necessary instruments, supplies, and equipment prior to patient appointments.
Greet patients and visitors in a courteous and professional manner.
Obtain and document patient vital signs, height, and weight.
Schedule patient appointments and maintain accurate patient records.
Prepare and administer medications as directed by physicians.
Prepare specimens for laboratory analysis and perform basic laboratory tests.
Provide instruction and education to patients on health maintenance and disease prevention.
Answer phones and provide support to patients, physicians, and other medical staff members.
Clean and organize exam rooms after patient appointments.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Ability to perform clinical tasks such as taking vital signs, administering injections, performing EKGs and collecting lab specimens.
Knowledge of medical terminology and medical office procedures.
Ability to accurately document patient information in electronic medical records.
Understanding of HIPAA regulations and patient confidentiality.
Excellent interpersonal skills to effectively interact with patients, families, and other healthcare personnel.
Ability to multitask and prioritize tasks efficiently.
Strong organizational skills to manage multiple patient files and appointments.
Understanding of coding and billing procedures.
Knowledge of infection control protocols.
Ability to provide emotional support and comfort to patients and families.

The Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) is a vital asset to any healthcare team. The CMA position requires a variety of skills to be successful, but the most important skill is the ability to communicate effectively with patients, colleagues, and other healthcare providers. Good communication skills enable a CMA to provide accurate patient information and ensure proper care is administered.

the CMA must be able to multi-task and prioritize their duties as well as have a strong attention to detail. Having strong organizational skills will also help a CMA to manage time efficiently and effectively. Furthermore, CMAs must possess a strong knowledge of medical terminology and procedures.

With these skills, a Certified Medical Assistant can work effectively in any healthcare setting, ensuring the best possible care for patients.

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Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have as a Certified Medical Assistant?
Describe a time when you had to handle a difficult patient.
How do you ensure accuracy and compliance when completing medical documents?
What are your thoughts on patient confidentiality?
What techniques do you use to stay organized in a busy medical office?
Describe the importance of communication between yourself, other staff members, and patients.
What do you believe are the key skills necessary to be an effective CMA?
How do you manage multiple tasks while maintaining a high level of accuracy?
What is your experience with electronic health records systems?
Describe a situation in which you had to resolve a conflict between staff members or with a patient.

Common Tools in Industry

Medical Charting Software. used to document patient information, including medical history and current treatments (e. g. EPIC).
Electronic Health Records (EHR). used to securely store patient information, including medical history, diagnoses, treatments, and test results (e. g. Cerner).
Practice Management Software. used to manage office operations, including scheduling appointments, billing and coding, and tracking patient data (e. g. AthenaHealth).
Medical Calculators. used to quickly and accurately calculate drug dosages, body mass index, and other common medical equations (e. g. MedCalc).
Drug Reference Software. used to look up safety information on medications, including side effects, interactions and dosage guidelines (e. g. Lexicomp).
Vital Sign Monitors. used to measure patient vital signs, including temperature, heart rate and breathing rate (e. g. Welch Allyn Spot Vital Signs Monitor).
Injectable Medication Systems. used to accurately and safely administer injections, including insulin injections and vaccines (e. g. BD Sharps Disposal System).
Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs). used in emergency situations to shock the heart back into a normal rhythm (e. g. Philips HeartStart AED).

Professional Organizations to Know

American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA)
American Medical Technologists (AMT)
National Association for Health Professionals (NAHP)
National Healthcareer Association (NHA)
Certifying Board for Medical Assistants (CBMA)
National Center for Competency Testing (NCCT)
American Medical Certification Association (AMCA)
National Healthcareer Association (NHA)
National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA)
National Registry of Certified Medical Assistants (NRCMA)

We also have Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), Certified Surgical Technician (CST), and Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Phlebotomy. The practice of drawing blood from a patient for medical testing, transfusions, or donations.
Anatomy. The scientific study of the structure of living organisms and their parts.
Physiology. The scientific study of the functions and processes of living organisms and their parts.
Pharmacology. The study of drugs and their effects on the body.
Pathology. The study of disease, including its causes, processes, development, and effects on the body.
Medical Terminology. A specialized language used by medical professionals to communicate about health care and medical topics.
Clinical Documentation. The practice of recording patient data in the medical record in an organized and concise manner.
Electronic Health Records (EHR). Digital records of patient medical information, including medical history, diagnoses, treatments, and progress notes.
Medical Coding. The process of translating diagnoses, procedures, and services into codes used for billing and reimbursement.
Health Care Regulations. Laws and policies that govern health care providers and organizations in their practice and operations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Who can become a Certified Medical Assistant (CMA)? A1: Individuals who have completed a medical assistant program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) or the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES) are eligible to become a Certified Medical Assistant (CMA). Q2: What is the main role of a Certified Medical Assistant (CMA)? A2: The main role of a Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) is to provide clinical and administrative support to healthcare professionals. This includes taking vital signs, performing laboratory tests, preparing patients for examinations and procedures, and documenting patient information. Q3: How long does it take to become a Certified Medical Assistant (CMA)? A3: Most medical assistant programs take between 12-18 months to complete and may require an additional 6-12 months of on-the-job training prior to certification. Q4: What is the certification process for a Certified Medical Assistant (CMA)? A4: The certification process for becoming a Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) requires passing an exam administered by the Certifying Board of the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA). The exam covers topics such as anatomy and physiology, medical terminology, clinical procedures, patient care, and medical law and ethics. Q5: What are the benefits of becoming a Certified Medical Assistant (CMA)? A5: Becoming a Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) provides many benefits, including increased job opportunities, higher wages, increased job security, and the ability to demonstrate commitment to quality patient care.