The Landscape of Medical Certification Organizations

Introduction

In the dynamic realm of the medical community, various organizations provide certification exams for individuals aspiring to enter the medical assisting field or other allied health professions. Two prominent entities that uphold high standards of quality and possess widely respected credentials are The American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA) and The American Medical Billing Association (AMBA).

As the healthcare industry continues to evolve, the demand for skilled professionals in medical assisting and billing becomes increasingly crucial. This essay delves into the comprehensive offerings of The American Association of Medical Assistants and The American Medical Billing Association, exploring their certification processes, ongoing training requirements, and the significance of medical terminology in shaping successful careers in these fields.

The American Association of Medical Assistants

The American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA) stands as a non-profit organization, founded in 1955 by The Kansas Medical Assistants Society. Over its fifty-seven-year history, the AAMA has grown steadily, boasting over 20,000 members to date. The organization's mission is to provide medical assistants with education, certification, credential acknowledgment, networking prospects, scope-of-practice protection, and advocacy for quality healthcare.

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The AAMA administers the CMA certification exam, overseen by the National Board of Medical Examiners. This comprehensive exam comprises approximately 200 multiple-choice questions distributed across four 40-minute sections, with a maximum completion time of 195 minutes.

The CMA(AAMA) credential is highly regarded in the medical assisting field due to the AAMA's ongoing training requirements. Recertification every five years necessitates completion of sixty hours of Continuing Education Units (CEUs) in three required categories and the maintenance of a current CPR certification.

Additionally, the CMA(AAMA) exam stands out as the only credential requiring candidates to be graduates of a programmatically accredited medical assisting program. Those holding this prestigious credential possess both general medical office and administrative skills, as well as the ability to perform various clinical duties, making them invaluable assets in any medical office setting.

The AAMA's commitment to professional development extends beyond certification. The organization offers a plethora of resources, including workshops, seminars, and conferences, to ensure that medical assistants stay abreast of the latest advancements in healthcare. This ongoing education not only enhances individual competence but also contributes to the overall improvement of patient care standards across the industry.

American Medical Billing Association

The American Medical Billing Association (AMBA), established in 1998 by Cyndee and Larry Weston, owners of a medical billing center in Davis, Oklahoma since 1989, distinguishes itself by catering to the needs of small billers. AMBA's mission revolves around helping its members become successful Certified Medical Reimbursement Specialists.

AMBA facilitates this mission through medical billing certification, online training courses, coding certification prep, and webinars. The Certified Medical Reimbursement Specialist (CMRS) exam, in existence for the past decade, is the only exam specifically designed for medical billing professionals.

Although there is no state or federal requirement for medical billing professionals to become certified, AMBA's goal is to provide a professional certification exam that upholds high ethical standards and recognizes the competency of certificants. The CMRS exam encompasses over 800 questions, covering ICD9, CPT4, HCPCS coding, HIPAA, OIG compliance, insurance claims, billing, denials, and appeals.

Successful completion of the CMRS exam, with a minimum grade of 85, results in certification valid for one year. The exam is taken online and consists of 16 different sections, each to be completed within 45 days of the start date. Recertification requires completing 15 continuing education units per year. As the only exam of its kind, the CMRS credential demonstrates proven knowledge and skills, providing individuals with a distinct advantage in the field of medical billing.

AMBA's commitment to professional growth extends beyond the certification process. The association offers a wide array of continuing education opportunities, ensuring that Certified Medical Reimbursement Specialists stay current with the ever-changing landscape of medical billing and coding. This commitment not only enhances the individual's career prospects but also contributes to the overall efficiency and accuracy of medical billing processes in the healthcare ecosystem.

Medical Terminology

Medical terminology serves as the cornerstone of standardized communication within the diverse professions constituting the medical community. "Medical language is the key to a successful career in healthcare. If you want to 'walk the walk,' then you have to 'talk the talk' of medical language" (Turley, 2011, p. 2).

Recognizing the significance of medical terminology, particularly as I aspire to become a medical administrative assistant, underscores its vital role in the medical field. Proficiency in medical terminology is not only essential for personal success but also benefits employers by enhancing communication among medical professionals and patients. This proficiency contributes to increased quality of care and reduced liability.

Moreover, a strong foundation in medical terminology is pivotal in successfully navigating the complex certification exams offered by organizations like the AAMA and AMBA. Both certification processes extensively assess the candidate's understanding of medical language, requiring a thorough grasp of terminology related to administrative procedures, clinical duties, and billing processes.

As individuals in the medical field strive for excellence, an in-depth knowledge of medical terminology becomes a strategic asset. It not only facilitates effective communication within the workplace but also fosters a deeper understanding of medical practices and procedures, positioning healthcare professionals as valuable contributors to the broader healthcare ecosystem.

Conclusion

Both The American Association of Medical Assistants and The American Medical Billing Association offer esteemed credentialing in the medical assisting and billing fields. Acquiring a robust knowledge of medical terminology proves invaluable in navigating the certification exams provided by these organizations and lays a solid foundation for a successful career in the ever-evolving medical industry.

As the healthcare landscape continues to advance, the role of certified professionals in medical assisting and billing becomes increasingly pivotal. The AAMA and AMBA not only provide certification but also foster ongoing education, ensuring that their members stay at the forefront of industry trends and best practices.

Embracing the importance of medical terminology further enhances the competency of individuals in these fields. It serves as a universal language, bridging the gap between various healthcare professions and contributing to enhanced patient care, streamlined administrative processes, and reduced risks within the healthcare environment.