Your Ultimate Timeline Guide to Become a Medical Assistant
If you’re thinking about becoming a medical assistant or MA, one of the first things you’ll want to know is how long it takes. To give you an idea about this, you need to learn the timeframes involved, including how long the medical assistant program takes and what to expect in terms of certification and job placement.
How long does it take to become a medical assistant?
The time it takes to become an MA depends on the program you pick and your background. Medical assistant programs often range between 6 weeks and 2 years, depending on the type of accreditation you desire. Here’s a breakdown of the options along with how long each medical assistant program takes:
Online Medical Assistant Programs
Online medical assistant programs are the fastest way to become a certified medical assistant. They usually take 4 to 9 months to finish and are mostly online, with a clinical externship at the end. These programs are ideal if you require flexibility or want to begin a new career rapidly. They cover the same information as in-person seminars, but you can study at your own speed.
Medical Assistant Certificate Programs
Many community colleges and vocational schools offer medical assistant certificate programs. They usually take nine months to a year to finish. These programs teach essential skills for being a medical assistant, including medical terminology, anatomy, clinical procedures, and administrative tasks. Most include a clinical externship for hands-on experience in a healthcare setting.
Medical Assistant Diploma Programs
Medical assistant diploma programs are also available at community colleges and vocational schools. They are slightly shorter, usually taking 6 months to 1 year to complete. These programs cover the same material as certificate programs but in a faster, more intensive format. They are a good choice if you want to start working quickly.
Associate’s Degree Programs
An associate’s degree in medical assistance offers a more comprehensive education. These programs, which are offered in community colleges and technical schools, last around two years. They have general education and medical assisting courses to provide a well-rounded education. This approach may lead to additional work opportunities, but it takes longer and is more expensive.
How long does it take to get medical assistant certification?
Getting certified is important in becoming a medical assistant and affects your job prospects and salary. Here’s what you need to know:
Certification Process
To become a certified medical assistant, you must pass a certification exam. The American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA) and the American Medical Technologists (AMT) offer the most prevalent certifications: Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) and Registered Medical Assistant (RMA). Preparing for these exams generally involves studying for a few weeks to a few months, depending on how much time you can dedicate to preparation.
Exam Duration
The certification exams typically run 2 to 3 hours and include multiple-choice questions about various topics of medical assistance.
What factors affect how long it takes to become a medical assistant?
While the type of program you choose mainly determines how long it takes to become a medical assistant, there are several other factors to consider:
- Prior Education and Experience: If you already have a background in healthcare, such as being a certified nursing assistant (CNA), you might finish a medical assistant program faster. Some programs offer credit for your previous education or experience, which can speed up your training.
- Full-Time vs. Part-Time: Medical assistant programs often have both full-time and part-time options. Full-time programs are quicker, with students finishing their coursework in the shortest time possible. Part-time programs provide greater flexibility but require longer to complete.
- Program Type: Choosing between a certificate program and an associate degree will impact the overall time required. An associate degree takes longer but provides more comprehensive training.
- Exam Preparation: After finishing your medical assistant program, you need to pass a certification exam to become a certified medical assistant (CMA) or registered medical assistant (RMA). Preparing for this exam can take extra time, though many programs include exam preparation in their curriculum.
Tips to Speed Up the Process
If you’re eager to start your career quickly, consider these tips:
- Choose a Fast Program: Pick a certificate or diploma program that offers an accelerated timeline to finish your training faster.
- Study Full-Time: Enroll in a full-time program to complete your courses more quickly compared to part-time options.
- Use Your Experience: If you have prior healthcare experience or certifications, find programs that give credit for this, which can shorten your training.
- Prepare for the Exam Early: Start studying for the certification exam while you’re still in your program to help you pass it sooner.
- Get Practical Experience: Take advantage of internships or externships to gain hands-on experience and make yourself job-ready.
- Stay Organized: Keep track of your tasks and examinations to stay on track and avoid setbacks.
Understand the Timeline of Becoming a Medical Assistant
Becoming a medical assistant takes different amounts of time depending on the program you choose and your background. Programs can last from a few months to two years. Getting certified is another important step. To speed up the process, consider choosing a fast program, studying full-time, using any prior experience you have, and preparing for the certification exam while you’re still in training. This allows you to start your new career as a medical assistant sooner.
