Medical Assistant (MA) vs. Certified Medical Assistant (CMA)
A medical assistant is a healthcare professional who performs essential clinical and administrative tasks to support the vital work of physicians and other medical providers. MAs are employed in various healthcare settings, including outpatient clinics, private practices, hospitals and cancer centers, helping to ensure that these facilities run smoothly and efficiently so the providers can deliver the best possible patient care.
What is the difference between an MA and a CMA?
The main difference between a medical assistant and a certified medical assistant is that a CMA has earned certification through a nationally recognized certifying agency, such as the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA). This is significant because credentials matter in healthcare, often dictating the duties a medical professional can take on.
Many employers seek to hire nationally certified medical assistants because their certification confirms their mastery of the clinical and administrative skills they need to successfully perform the required job duties.
How can an MA become a CMA?
To become a certified medical assistant, a medical assistant must meet the certification requirements established by the AAMA, which include:
- Graduating from a medical assisting program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) or the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES)
- Gaining two years of full-time experience as a medical assistant
- Passing the CMA certification examination administered by AAMA
After becoming certified, a CMA must meet continuing education requirements and periodically renew their certification.
What does a certified medical assistant do in a cancer center?
Depending on the needs of the cancer center and the qualifications and training of the CMA, their duties may include:
- Taking patient histories and documenting their vital signs, such as body temperature, pulse and respiration rate
- Assisting physicians with patient examinations and procedures
- Administering medications, including chemotherapy drugs, under the direction of a physician
- Performing basic laboratory tests, such as drawing blood and collecting specimens for testing
- Educating patients about their treatment plans and post-operative care
- Supporting patients and helping them manage the physical and emotional side effects of cancer treatment
- Scheduling appointments and coordinating care with other healthcare providers
- Maintaining medical records and ensuring accuracy and confidentiality
- Assisting with insurance billing and coding related to cancer treatments
- Ensuring that exam rooms and equipment are clean and stocked with the necessary supplies
Opportunities for medical assistant students at Moffitt Cancer Center
If you are currently enrolled in an accredited medical assisting program and would like to pursue a rewarding career as a certified medical assistant in oncology, Moffitt offers a unique opportunity to complete the required clinical externship. At Moffitt, you can gain valuable, real-world experience by shadowing and collaborating with CMAs, oncologists and other healthcare professionals while working directly with cancer patients. In a supportive, hands-on learning environment, you can demonstrate and refine your skills as you make a meaningful difference in the lives of many patients.
Apply now, and join us in our lifesaving mission to prevent and cure cancer.