A: A Certified Medical Assistant (CMA (AAMA)) performs a vital and versatile role in healthcare, seamlessly blending clinical patient care with administrative office management. Their certification validates a standardized, national level of knowledge and competency in both areas.
Q: What are the core clinical duties of a CMA (AAMA)?
A: Clinical responsibilities focus on direct patient care and preparation, including:
- Patient Assessment: Recording patient histories, measuring and documenting vital signs (blood pressure, pulse, temperature, respiration), and explaining treatment procedures.
- Clinical Procedures: Assisting physicians with examinations and minor office surgeries, performing basic laboratory tests, collecting and preparing lab specimens, conducting electrocardiograms (EKGs), and administering medications as directed.
- Infection Control & Safety: Sterilizing medical instruments, disposing of contaminated supplies, and ensuring examination and treatment areas are clean, stocked, and safe.
Q: What are the core administrative duties of a CMA (AAMA)?
A: Administrative duties ensure the smooth operation of the medical practice:
- Practice Management: Scheduling and coordinating patient appointments, managing the front office, and handling patient check-in and check-out.
- Health Information Management: Creating, updating, and maintaining accurate and confidential electronic health records (EHRs) and other patient documentation.
- Billing & Finance: Managing medical billing, processing insurance claims, and handling basic medical coding (CPT, ICD-10) for procedures and diagnoses.
- Communication: Serving as a key liaison between the patient, the physician, and other healthcare providers or facilities.
Q: What is the value of the AAMA credential in performing these duties?
A: The CMA (AAMA) credential is not just a title; it assures employers and patients that the assistant has proven their competence through a rigorous national exam. It signifies:
- Mastery of a Broad Scope: Certified individuals are qualified to perform the full range of clinical and administrative tasks safely and effectively.
- Adherence to Standards: They are knowledgeable about medical ethics, patient confidentiality laws (HIPAA), and standard safety protocols.
- Professional Commitment: Certification demonstrates a dedication to the profession and to ongoing education, as it requires recertification every five years.
Q: Where do CMA (AAMA) professionals typically work?
A: They are employed across the healthcare spectrum, including:
- Physicians' offices and private clinics (primary care and all specialties)
- Outpatient care centers and ambulatory surgery centers
- Hospitals (in both inpatient and outpatient departments)
- Long-term care facilities and other healthcare organizations
For a detailed guide on the steps to achieve this credential, review the certification pathway in how to get AAMA certified.