The healthcare industry relies on specialized roles, often identified by various acronyms. Understanding these professional designations is important for appreciating the structure of the modern healthcare team. This article clarifies the specific role and responsibilities of the Registered Medical Assistant (RMA) within the clinical environment.
The Registered Medical Assistant Defined
The Registered Medical Assistant (RMA) is a nationally recognized credential earned by passing a comprehensive examination. This certification is administered by the American Medical Technologists (AMT), a credentialing organization for allied health professions. The RMA designation signifies that the professional possesses the knowledge and skills necessary to perform diverse tasks, ranging from direct patient care to office management. RMAs typically work in outpatient clinics, physician offices, and other healthcare facilities under the direct supervision of a licensed practitioner.
Daily Duties and Scope of Practice
The daily work of an RMA involves a blend of patient-facing clinical tasks and essential administrative duties, ensuring the efficient operation of the medical practice. Clinically, RMAs prepare patients for examinations, which includes accurately measuring and recording vital signs like blood pressure, pulse, temperature, and respiration rate. They assist physicians during minor procedures, collect laboratory specimens, and are skilled in phlebotomy, the process of drawing blood for testing. RMAs may also administer medications, including immunizations and injections, as permitted by state regulations and the supervising physician’s direction.
A significant portion of the RMA’s day involves managing the administrative flow of the office. These administrative tasks include maintaining and updating patient medical records, requiring proficiency with electronic health record (EHR) systems to ensure data accuracy and privacy compliance. RMAs are also tasked with scheduling appointments, managing referrals to specialists, and handling billing or insurance correspondence. This dual-role capability makes the RMA an important support member for both the clinical and business operations of a healthcare facility.
Achieving and Maintaining RMA Certification
To earn the RMA credential, candidates must satisfy specific eligibility pathways established by the AMT, typically involving education or qualifying experience. One common route is graduating from an accredited medical assisting program that includes at least 720 hours of instruction and a minimum 160-hour supervised externship. Alternatively, individuals may qualify through the work experience route, requiring three years of full-time employment as a medical assistant within the last seven years, covering both clinical and administrative duties. After meeting prerequisites, candidates must pass the RMA certification examination, a 210-question, multiple-choice assessment testing competency across clinical, administrative, and general medical assisting knowledge.
Once earned, maintaining the RMA status requires active participation in the AMT’s Certification Continuation Program (CCP). This program mandates that RMAs renew their certification every three years to ensure continued professional competence. Renewal is achieved by earning a specified number of continuing education units (CEUs) within the three-year cycle, demonstrating a commitment to ongoing learning and current healthcare practices.
RMA Versus Other Medical Assistant Credentials
The RMA is often compared with the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) credential, awarded by the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA). While the daily job duties and scope of practice for both an RMA and a CMA are functionally similar, the primary distinction lies in the certifying organization and eligibility requirements. The RMA credential offers broader pathways, allowing qualifying work experience or military training to substitute for a formal accredited program in certain cases. The CMA generally requires graduation from a program accredited by either CAAHEP or ABHES. Both credentials are recognized nationally by employers.