Registered vs. Certified

Medical assistants are respected members of the healthcare team. They deliver the caring touch within the confines of a medical office and make a difference by helping people from all backgrounds, ages, and walks of life!

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Registered vs. Certified...

Is There A Difference Between Being Certified and Registered?

The answer is: No!!! There is no difference between certified or registered, it both means the same. The designation certified can be used interchangeably with the term registered, and vice versa. A certified medical assistant and a registered medical assistant (you've guessed it) are both certified as medical assistants by virtue of having passed the certification exam.

What's The Purpose of Certification?

Passing a comprehensive certification exam impacts professional success. It means your training and experience in a specific field are sufficient to do the job, and do it well. Once you have passed the certification exam, you are recognized by the sponsoring regulatory organization, or association as a professional with the appropriate combination of knowledge and skills to proficiently and competently work in your field. Your credential is a valid statement of your professionalism and excellence. Learn more about how to obtain certification!

The "Magic Bullet" When Facing Your Competition are Your Credentials!!!

Sounds so simple, but sadly, there still are countless medical assistants that have put off getting certified. Don't make the same mistake! Take charge and get your credentials to put better jobs and pay within your reach.

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What Happens During The Certification Exam?

The certification exam usually is a written test that covers numerous questions about different areas of clinical and administrative competency. These exams are held at designated testing centers several times a month, or year. Some certification exams are also being offered online, or through the mail. To get a general idea what to expect during the testing session of your certification exam and view images of a typical testing room go to Pearson Professional Centers Testing Experience.

Attention: Although certified medical assistants are trained in phlebotomy, EKG and X-ray procedures many states mandate that anybody performing phlebotomy, EKG and X-ray must have a specific licence to do so. Persons that were convicted of certain acts, crimes, or offenses, or have charges pending related to these acts, crimes, or offenses are seldom allowed to work in this field. Because of issues of trust a person who refuses or fails the criminal background check may not be permitted to work with patients in a medical, or healthcare facility.

How Can I Document My Qualifications and Skills I Received In The Military?

Those exiting the military should always plan ahead for a new career in the "civilian" world by documenting skills acquired in the military trough certification. Nothing speaks louder than professional certification. It increases your chancesget hired in today's highly competitive job market and achieve better pay.

Suzanne Ashmore told us on Jan 16th, 2007:

OK, let me give you a little of my background:

1. I am a Registered Medical Assistant and Allied Health Instructor with AMT

2. I am a Registered Medical Assistant and Registered Phlebotomy Technician with the American Association of Medical Personnel

3. I am a Certified Medical Assistant with the American Association of Medical Assistant

4. I have a Bachelor of Science degree in Health Education

I did NOT need a degree to earn the RMA, RPT, or CMA designation. Here is how I earned my credentials:

1. RMA and RPT by the AAMP (received by reciprocity due to my military career as a medic)

2. RMA by AMT (received eligibility to sit for their exam based on my military education and experience)

3. CMA by AAMA (received eligibility to sit for their exam based on my military education and experience)

I have ran across a very few RMAs(AMT) who had trouble getting a job because the practice wanted a CMA (AAMA). AMT has a letter they can provide to prove their RMA is equivalent to the CMA (AAMA).

MORE INFO:

MOS 91W

Health Care Specialist Civilian Equivalents:

For information obtain the U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Outlook Handbook (local library!)

US Army Info Site:

MOS 91W: Health Care Specialist Description and qualifications for MOS 91W Health Care Specialist.