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Page: Medical Assistant Certification Exam

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Who Can Take The Certification Exam?

Graduates of postsecondary medical assisting programs accredited by CAAHEP or ABHES are immediately eligible to take the exams provided by different governing bodies. Some certification sponsors, including NHA and AMT also grant certifications to experienced allied health professionals based on the amount of years of directly related work experience, regardless whether they graduated from a vocational training program, or not, including those who received comparable training in the US Armed Forces/military. However, medical assistant certification exams can pose a challenge. They typically consist of a certain number of multiple choice questions divided in sections that cover different areas of the medical assistant discipline in all clinical and administrative areas.

When Is the Certification Exam Typically Taken?

The exam can be taken as early as right after graduating from an accredited training program, or years down the road. Some of the newer medical assistant graduates often put off taking the exam until they have gained some work experience first. Others dive right in, fearing they might otherwise forget what they have learned in class. The top requirement is KNOWING what a medical assistant is, and does, and understanding medical terminology, human anatomy, some basic pharmacology, and clinical, as well as administrative aspects of the job.  

What Does National Certification Mean? As far as a job and career are concerned, obtaining recognized, industry specific certifications show a prospective employer that the individual is a serious and dedicated professional wanting to advance in their career.

Is Certification Required? In most states you are not required to be certified. But, once again, the value of having a certification can do nothing but help your chances of advancement or getting a job. Having recognized certification shows that you are serious about your career. In addition, it may quite possibly help if the state you are working in requires any type of certification in the future.

How Do I Study for the Certification Exam?
Most vocational training programs prepare their students well for these exams. Therefore one important study tool are notes taking during class lectures. Furthermore, almost all certification bodies supply their applicants with sample practice exams and study tips.

Can The Exam Be Taken From Home?
Some certification bodies let certification candidates take their exams via a computer terminal at certain locations for groups or individuals. Others offer a so called "home-study" exam to those who qualify, where the applicant receives a booklet that must be completed and returned by mail.
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