National Certified Medical Assistant (NCMA) Certification: A Comprehensive Guide
Introduction
Medical assistants play a crucial role in the healthcare industry, providing administrative and clinical support to healthcare professionals. To demonstrate their competence and enhance their professional credibility, medical assistants can obtain the National Certified Medical Assistant (NCMA) certification. This article provides an in-depth overview of the NCMA certification, including its eligibility requirements, exam details, benefits, and resources for preparation.
Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for the NCMA certification, candidates must meet the following requirements:
Key Facts
- Certification Program: NCMA certification is offered by the National Center for Competency Testing (NCCT). It is designed to validate the knowledge and skills of medical assistants and enhance their professional credibility.
- Eligibility: To be eligible for NCMA certification, candidates must meet certain requirements, which may include having at least 6 months of full-time teaching experience at the postsecondary level, holding a high school diploma or equivalent credentials, and providing evidence of good moral character.
- Exam: The NCMA certification exam is administered by the NCCT. In 2021, a total of 6,577 individuals took the NCCT exam, and the passing rate was 56.8%. The exam assesses the candidate’s knowledge in areas such as medical terminology, anatomy and physiology, medical law and ethics, clinical procedures, and administrative tasks.
- Benefits: Obtaining NCMA certification can provide several benefits to medical assistants. It can enhance job prospects, increase earning potential, and demonstrate a commitment to professionalism and quality patient care. Certified medical assistants may also have more opportunities for career advancement and specialization.
- Possess a high school diploma or equivalent credentials
- Have at least 6 months of full-time teaching experience at the postsecondary level
- Provide evidence of good moral character
Exam Details
The NCMA certification exam is administered by the National Center for Competency Testing (NCCT). The exam comprises 150 scored questions and 15 unscored practice test questions. The exam covers a wide range of topics, including:
- Medical terminology
- Anatomy and physiology
- Medical law and ethics
- Clinical procedures
- Administrative tasks
Candidates have 3 hours to complete the exam. The passing score is 70%.
Benefits of NCMA Certification
Obtaining NCMA certification offers several benefits to medical assistants, such as:
- Enhanced job prospects
- Increased earning potential
- Demonstration of professionalism and commitment to quality patient care
- Opportunities for career advancement and specialization
Resources for Preparation
The NCCT provides various resources to assist candidates in preparing for the NCMA certification exam, including:
- Flashcards
- Case scenarios
- Interactive review questions
- Optional review course ($70)
Conclusion
The NCMA certification is a valuable credential for medical assistants seeking to advance their careers and demonstrate their proficiency in the field. By meeting the eligibility requirements, passing the exam, and utilizing the available preparation resources, medical assistants can enhance their professional credibility and contribute effectively to the healthcare industry.
References
- National Center for Competency Testing
- OnlineDegree.com: National Certified Medical Assistant NCMA
- NCMA Certification FAQs
FAQs
What is NCMA certification?
NCMA certification is a credential offered by the National Center for Competency Testing (NCCT) to validate the knowledge and skills of medical assistants.
Who is eligible for NCMA certification?
To be eligible for NCMA certification, candidates must have a high school diploma or equivalent credentials, at least 6 months of full-time teaching experience at the postsecondary level, and provide evidence of good moral character.
What does the NCMA certification exam cover?
The NCMA certification exam covers a wide range of topics, including medical terminology, anatomy and physiology, medical law and ethics, clinical procedures, and administrative tasks.
How long is the NCMA certification exam?
Candidates have 3 hours to complete the NCMA certification exam.
What is the passing score for the NCMA certification exam?
The passing score for the NCMA certification exam is 70%.
What are the benefits of NCMA certification?
Benefits of NCMA certification include enhanced job prospects, increased earning potential, demonstration of professionalism and commitment to quality patient care, and opportunities for career advancement and specialization.
How can I prepare for the NCMA certification exam?
The NCCT provides various resources to assist candidates in preparing for the NCMA certification exam, including flashcards, case scenarios, interactive review questions, and an optional review course.
How much does the NCMA certification cost?
The NCMA certification exam fee is $119. Additionally, there is an optional NCMA review course available for purchase at a cost of $70. Once certified, there is an annual renewal fee of $77 to maintain certification.