Licenses and Certifications
Medical assistants and dermatology technicians are not legally
required to be licensed or certified. However, some employers prefer
to hire employees who possess one of three certifications.
Certified Medical Assistant (CMA)
Before applying for CMA certification, applicants must graduate from
an accredited medical assisting program. The American Association of
Medical Associates awards the certification, which must be renewed
every five years.
Registered Medical Assistant (RMA)
The RMA certification is offered by American Medical Technologists.
Applicants must graduate from an accredited medical assistant
program and possess a minimum 720 hours in medical assisting
experience. Additionally, applicants must be employed for the last
five years as a medical assistant. Once candidates obtain their
certification, every three years they must complete a specific
number of ongoing education classes.
Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA)
The National Healthcareer Association offers CCMA certification,
which means the applicant is competent in clinical and laboratory
procedures as well as administrative functions. Candidates must
complete an approved training program and work in the medical
assistant field for at least one year. Individuals must complete
continuing education courses to maintain certification.
Workshops and Seminars
Professional organizations and healthcare facilities host annual
dermatology conferences and workshops for dermatology technicians.
Lasting anywhere from 2-5 days, these meetings feature several
symposia and interactive workshops. Dermatology seminars, which last
2-3 days, allow attendees to obtain continuing medical education
credits. Dermatology technicians can learn about new procedures in
areas such as age reversal, facial rejuvenation and acne treatment.
Additional Professional Development
Dermatology technicians who possess RMA or CCMA certification must
adhere to continuing education credit requirements. Otherwise, as
with any medical profession, dermatology technicians must keep
current with updates to medical technology and procedures.
Technicians can also enroll in further education to become nurses.
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