Allied Health: Why Get Certified?

City College: Why Get Certified?

Currently in the State of Florida, certification in the medical specialty of

Medical Assisting, Medical Office Administration, or Billing and Coding Specialist is voluntary. However, why should you become certified? As a candidate for a job in this profession, the medical community is looking for credentials which validate an applicant’s proficiency and competency in their chosen field.

 

Having an Associate of Science Degree in Medical Assisting or Medical Office Administration-Billing and Coding from City College, coupled with certification, tells the prospective employer that you have met high standards of education and competency. This increases your chances of being hired, as well as increase your salary range. In addition, holding a degree and a credential in a medical specialty is held in high esteem among fellow peers and medical professionals, not to mention the personal satisfaction.


Credentials

After successfully passing a written examination in the chosen field with NCCT, National Center for Competency Testing, of which City College is a proctor site for, and upon successful completion of the Allied Health Program, graduates may use the following credential:


  • NCMA-National Certified Medical Assistant,
  • NCPT-National Certified Phlebotomy Technician,
  • NCMOA-National Certified Medical Office Assistant,
  • NCICS-National Certified Insurance and Coding Specialist.

 

In order to keep the credential, continuing education must be completed and your certification must be renewed every 2 years.


Salary

According to the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA), certified medical assistants can earn up to $27,951. CMA’s with experience have the potential to earn over $38,000 per year.

 

Experience in the field can also lead to promotions and upward job mobility such as Office Manager or Clinical Supervisor, which has higher salary averages. Medical Assisting can also lead to other careers in healthcare such as nursing, laboratory technician, social work, public health or health services management.

 

According to the United States Bureau of Statistics, 60% of all medical assistants are employed in various physician’s offices and practices.