What are the Best Certifications for Medical Administrative Assistants in 2025 

Medical Administrative Assistant is a great career path for those pursuing a career in the healthcare field. You may not provide direct patient care, but you make sure the office runs smoothly. Doctors and nurses rely on you to keep records accurate, schedule appointments on time, and handle patient information correctly. 

If you aim to become a medical administrative assistant, you need to know some of the recognized certifications you can take and pass to advance in your career. Employers often look for candidates who hold certifications, because these prove that you have training and knowledge in this field.

Why Getting Certified Makes a Difference

Certifications show that you meet specific standards in healthcare administration. They make you more competitive in the job market. Employers want to know that you can manage tasks like patient billing, medical records, and insurance claims without mistakes. 

So, when you hold certifications, you show that you are ready to handle these responsibilities, having undergone training and passed a qualifying exam to showcase your expertise. Another benefit is higher pay. 

Many certified medical administrative assistants earn more than those without certification, because employers see them as skilled and reliable. Certifications can also help you move into leadership roles later in your career.

Certified Medical Administrative Assistant (CMAA)

One of the most recognized certifications is the Certified Medical Administrative Assistant, or CMAA. The National Healthcareer Association (NHA) gives this credential. It is designed for people who want to work in front-office positions, like handling medical records, greeting patients, and scheduling. 

The CMAA exam tests your knowledge of office procedures, healthcare laws, and communication skills. So, if you want to work in hospitals, clinics, or large practices, this certification is an excellent starting point. Employers across the United States trust the CMAA, and it remains popular in 2025.

Certified Electronic Health Records Specialist (CEHRS)

The Certified Electronic Health Records Specialist, or CEHRS, is another strong option for you to consider. This credential also comes from the National Healthcareer Association. It focuses on electronic records, which are used in almost every healthcare setting today. 

When you earn this certification, you prove that you can manage digital files, update patient charts, and keep information safe under privacy laws. Since most offices use electronic systems, having CEHRS on your resume can make you stand out. 

It shows that you are ready to handle modern technology in healthcare. Employers in 2025 are looking for candidates who understand how to work with electronic records, so this certification continues to grow in demand.

Certified Billing and Coding Specialist (CBCS)

If you like numbers and detailed work, the Certified Billing and Coding Specialist, or CBCS, may be right for you. This certification shows that you can read medical reports and turn them into standardized codes for insurance claims. 

Accurate coding is essential because mistakes can delay payment for healthcare providers. Employers want people who can do this job well. The National Healthcareer Association also offers the CBCS exam. 

So, if you’re going to work more with insurance and billing, this certification can help you secure a strong career path. It is not required for all administrative positions, but it gives you more flexibility and makes you more attractive to employers.

Certified Professional Coder (CPC)

The Certified Professional Coder, or CPC, is another credential that focuses on medical billing and coding. The American Academy of Professional Coders, also known as AAPC, offers this certification. It is one of the most respected in the healthcare industry. 

A CPC demonstrates that you can apply correct medical codes for diagnoses, procedures, and services. While it requires more study and preparation than some other certifications, it can open doors to higher-paying jobs. 

Employers often prefer CPC-certified staff for positions that involve working closely with insurance claims and healthcare finance. If you are willing to put in the effort, the CPC can give you an edge in 2025.

Certified Medical Office Manager (CMOM)

The Certified Medical Office Manager, or CMOM, is ideal for those who want to move into leadership roles. This certification comes from the Practice Management Institute. It prepares you to supervise staff, manage office policies, and keep operations running smoothly. 

While you may not need this credential for an entry-level role, it can help you move up to management positions once you have some experience. Employers want office managers who understand both healthcare regulations and daily operations. Earning the CMOM can give you opportunities for career growth.

Which Certification Should You Choose?

Choosing the proper certification depends on your career goals. If you want to focus on the front desk and scheduling, the CMAA is a strong start. If you prefer working with digital files, the CEHRS will prepare you well. 

If billing and insurance sound interesting, the CBCS or CPC may be a better match. And if you see yourself leading a team one day, the CMOM could be the right path. Think about what you enjoy most, and then select the certification that matches your interests.

How Long Does It Take to Get Certified?

Most certifications can be earned within a few months of completing your training program. Some schools even prepare you for certification exams as part of their curriculum. The exams usually take just a few hours, but preparation may require studying textbooks, practice questions, and online modules. So, you can expect to be ready for certification soon after completing your medical assistant program.

Conclusion

Medical administrative assistants continue to play an essential role in healthcare. Certifications like CMAA, CEHRS, CBCS, CPC, and CMOM can help you prove your skills, earn better pay, and open doors to more opportunities. 

In 2025, employers are looking for candidates who are trained, certified, and ready to handle the demands of a busy healthcare environment. So, if you are prepared to start this journey, now is the time to plan your education and certification path.
Enroll now at Northwest Career College in the Medical Assistant Program. Graduate in as little as nine months and begin working in hospitals, healthcare facilities, and clinics.