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why is being a CMA (Certified Medical Assistant) important?

I'm in 12th grade and I'm interested in becoming a nurse or medical assistant.

Thank you comment icon Definitely go in Nursing. See if there is an LVN or Associate degree RN program in your area. Every school has different entrance requirements but they are both much more lucrative when comparing time and cost of school against a medical assistant. Megan Jackson BSN, RN

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Subject: Career question for you

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Shannon’s Answer

Nazeena's answer was right on target. i just want to add this: think about the kind of role you want. nurses are leaders. ma's are followers.
it's fine to become an ma, do it for awhile, get really good, then advance up the ladder. you'd have experience, confidence & knowledge that would give you a head start as a nurse. or doctor, midlevel, radiology tech... ma experience is helpful anywhere in healthcare.
this summer you might consider volunteering in a hospital to see how the roles work together. they have to be supportive teammates to each other. that's also a great environment to ask a ton of questions about how your co-workers got to where they are & what they like about it. be responsible, extra-helpful, ask tons of questions & learn everything you can. here's a secret tip: talk to male nurses to find out how they became 'that great nurse Ken' and not just 'that guy who does most of my heavy-patient lifting'.
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Gina’s Answer

Hi Eman, I am a nurse and I can tell you that CMA's are very crucial in medical offices and clinics. They do a lot of work in doctors offices in getting blood pressures, checking vitals, prepping patients to get into the rooms, etc. Have you ever had a doctor's appointment? Chances are the person that did your blood pressure, weight, temperature, got you into the room and prepped you for the exam, asked you questions was a CMA or MA. In most offices some CMA's can even give injections like vaccines. It is a very important job that supports doctors and nurses. I am a nurse and offices I've worked in would NOT be able to function without the MA team. The only downside I can see is that it can be a limited role and usually only found in offices. If you want to have more versatility and more education than nursing is great, it requires much more schooling and a license however it's well worth it. You work with patients, help doctors, you can work in an office, in a hospital, in a nursing home, etc. You can be an ER nurse or a labor or delivery nurse, etc. There are much more options and flexibility with nursing. A good option might be to get your MA ceritificate and work while you try to figure out how to get into nursing school. If you are in your senior now I would imagine you should be applying for college or already applying. RNs required a degree at either a community college (usually a 2 year program) but I would reccomend a 4 year college with a nursing program.
Both are great careers and it really depends on what you find exciting and your future plans! Good luck to you.
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James Constantine’s Answer

Hello Eman!

Importance of Being a Certified Medical Assistant (CMA)

Becoming a Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) is important for several reasons, especially if you are considering a career in healthcare as a nurse or medical assistant. Here are some key reasons why being a CMA is important:

1. Professional Credibility: Obtaining certification as a medical assistant demonstrates your commitment to the profession and your dedication to meeting certain standards of knowledge and skills. Employers often prefer hiring CMAs because they have demonstrated competency through a recognized certification process.

2. Career Advancement: Being a CMA can open up opportunities for career advancement within the healthcare field. With certification, you may be eligible for higher-paying positions, increased responsibilities, and better job prospects.

3. Enhanced Skills and Knowledge: The process of becoming a CMA involves rigorous training and examination to ensure that you have the necessary skills and knowledge to perform effectively in a healthcare setting. This certification can help you develop both clinical and administrative skills that are valuable in various healthcare settings.

4. Legal Requirements: In some states or healthcare facilities, having CMA certification may be a legal requirement to practice as a medical assistant. By obtaining this certification, you ensure that you meet the necessary regulatory standards to work in the field.

5. Patient Safety: As a CMA, you are trained to provide quality care to patients under the supervision of healthcare professionals. Your certification ensures that you have the competence to perform tasks safely and effectively, contributing to patient safety and well-being.

In conclusion, being a Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) is important for professional credibility, career advancement, enhanced skills and knowledge, meeting legal requirements, and ensuring patient safety in healthcare settings.

Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:

American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA): The AAMA is a professional organization that provides certification for medical assistants and sets standards for the profession.

Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS): The BLS offers data on job outlook, salary information, and educational requirements for medical assistants, providing valuable insights into the field.

National Healthcareer Association (NHA): The NHA is another reputable organization that offers certification for allied health professionals, including medical assistants, and provides resources for career development in healthcare.

GOD BLESS!
James.
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