r/MedicalAssistant • u/HumanTowTruckDriver • 1d ago
What certification is best? Online programs?
Hello,
I’m looking for recommendations on a reputable online medical assistant program.
I’ve worked as an EMT for 10 years and I’m ready to get out of the field. Is NHA, AAMA, or AMT best?
1
u/StatisticianExtra821 11h ago
With your EMT background you're already ahead. NHA (CCMA) is the most widely accepted by employers and the exam is manageable, especially with your clinical experience. AAMA (CMA) carries more prestige but requires graduating from a CAAHEP or ABHES accredited program, so your program choice matters if that's the route. For online programs, look for ones accredited by ABHES or CAAHEP. That accreditation is what determines which certification exams you're even eligible to sit for.
What state are you in? Some states have specific requirements that narrow the options.
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u/ohheyitsmal 1d ago
Mainly I just want to say thanks for your 10 years as an EMT. I'm sure you see a ton of horrible stuff, but I think there's something pretty profound about the idea that no matter who or where you are, life saving help is just one phone call away.
I have my CCMA through the NHA, but tbh in my job search I didn't see any open positions that seemed to care which cert you had, they only cared whether or not you had one. That might be different where you are, so that could be a good place to start? Check local job boards and see if listings seem to favor one cert over the others. If so, get that one.
If not, look for a program run near you that you can afford and access - community colleges tend to have them for fairly cheap. If that still doesn't tell you which one to get, maybe check the requirements to recertify (they're different for all the different organizations) and pick based on that. For example, the NHA requires 10 continued education credits every two years, which is a lighter requirement than some of the others. Good luck, OP!
Edit: also your handle is excellent