Certified Medical Assistant
Role of the Certified Medical Assistant in the Management of Rheumatic Diseases
The certified medical assistant (CMA) provides clinical and administrative support to the health care team. The CMA interacts directly with patients under the direction of a provider (physician, nurse practitioner, or physician assistant).
What Does the Certified Medical Assistant Do?
A CMA may provide administrative and clinical support by:
- Check in patients
- Update and file patient medical records
- Prepare patients for exam
- Take vital signs
- Assist providers with exams and procedures
- Draw blood
- Administer medications as directed
Duties are performed under the specific authorization and supervision of the provider
Where Does the Certified Medical Assistant Work?
- Outpatient clinics
- Private practices
What Kind of Training Does the Certified Medical Assistant Have?
- CMAs have completed an accredited training program that includes human anatomy and physiology, medical terminology, office practices, clinical and diagnostic procedures, pharmacology, and laboratory procedures.
- CMAs must also complete an on-the-job training practicum.
- CMAs are credentialed by certification exam.
This information is provided for general education only. Individuals should consult a qualified health care provider for professional medical advice, diagnosis, and treatment of a medical or health condition.