Step By Step Guide To Become A Medical Assistant In North Carolina 2025
Understand the Role of a Medical Assistant
Medical assistants perform administrative and clinical tasks in healthcare settings like clinics and hospitals. North Carolina does not mandate state certification, but obtaining national certification can improve job prospects.
Complete High School Education or GED
High school graduates or GED holders can proceed to enroll in medical assistant programs. Focus on subjects like biology, health science, and mathematics, which build a foundation for further studies.
Select an Accredited Medical Assisting Program
Enroll in a program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) or the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES). This ensures you meet the education standards required for certification.
- Raleigh’s Wake Technical Community College and Charlotte’s Central Piedmont Community College offer accredited programs.
- Program length: Typically 1 year for a diploma or 2 years for an associate degree.
- Estimated costs range from $2,000 to $4,000 per year.
Complete Required Coursework and Training
Medical assisting programs include both classroom instruction and hands-on laboratory experience. Subjects include anatomy, medical terminology, and pharmacology. Participate in externships to gain real-world experience.
Obtain National Certification
Consider achieving certification as a Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) through the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA) or as a Registered Medical Assistant (RMA) via American Medical Technologists (AMT).
- CMA Exam Fee: $125
- RMA Exam Fee: $120
Prepare thoroughly for the certification exam by using study guides and taking practice tests. Exams cover areas like clinical and administrative procedures, anatomy, and medical law.
Apply for Medical Assistant Positions in North Carolina
With certification, apply for positions in various healthcare settings. Major employers in North Carolina include UNC Health Care in Chapel Hill and Duke University Health System in Durham.
Maintain Certification Through Continuing Education
Certified MAs in North Carolina must earn recertification. CMAs require 60 recertification points every 5 years. This ensures proficiency with evolving practices and regulations in medical assisting.
Verify Regulation and Compliance
Stay informed about state regulations by consulting resources such as the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services for any policy updates affecting the scope of practice for medical assistants.
By following these steps, individuals can successfully pursue a career as a medical assistant in North Carolina.