How to become a certified medical assistant in Cook County

To become a certified medical assistant in Cook County, there are several steps that need to be taken. First, you must complete a medical assistant training program that is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) or the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES). These programs typically take one to two years to complete and cover topics such as medical terminology, anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, and clinical procedures.

After completing your training program, you can then take the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) exam offered by the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA). This exam tests your knowledge and skills in areas such as administrative tasks, clinical procedures, and medical ethics. Passing this exam is required to become a certified medical assistant.

Once you have passed the CMA exam, you can then apply for certification through the AAMA. This involves submitting your exam scores and proof of your education and training. Once your application is approved, you will receive your certification as a CMA.

In addition to these steps, it is also important to maintain your certification by completing continuing education courses and renewing your certification every five years. This ensures that you stay up-to-date with the latest developments in the field and continue to provide high-quality care to patients.