which is better CMA or RMA

calmwatters · Jul 31, 2009

hello dear! first and formost.. hands down the best study guide is the medical assistant review book second addition by saunders. You can order it from amazon or whatever. As for the difference. I heard that the only difference between the two is that RMA is basically allowed to carry his/her liscence to another state. I am going to sit for my RMA soon. The NCCT is a national organization but I am taking my test through AMT. So in essence there really is no difference between us just some letters. lol

You will hear that CMAs and RMAs are worlds apart but we really arent. To be an RMA you used to have to have an associates degree. But I just finished my course in 10 months so that is obviously not an associates. GL and write me if you have any more questions. :typing

Tami74 · Aug 4, 2012

I am going to take my certificate exam and I have just realized there is CMA and RMA as a title. Can anyone tell me what the difference is between the two and which one is better to get. I am also confused about the AAMA and the NCCT, I am from illinois and I heard the NCCT is only available here.
Also if anyone knows any helpful study guides for the test lest me know. thanks

A CMA is for people who have an associate degree for medical assisting. You are certified by the AAMA and CMA's usually hold a higher status than an RMA. An RMA can be taken by anyone that has gotten a diploma for medical assiting, certificate, or 5 years on the job training with no school.

I would take the CMA because it is more often asked for and more accredited than the RMA at least in the area i live. You must renew your CMA every 5 years and there is continuing education credits. You do not have to renew an RMA but you do have to do continuing education credits every 3 years.

The CMA is certified under AAMA (American Association of Medical Assisting) and RMA is certified under other medical organizations.

It is better to have an associates degree in medical assisting than a diploma because you are ablet to obtain extra certificates in further areas of training with this degree.

Good luck with which ever one you choose.