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Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) in Ohio

This guide outlines the complete process to become a Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) in Ohio, detailing each step from meeting prerequisites to securing your first job. The journey involves specific training hours, passing a competency exam, and complying with state regulations. The total path duration is typically 8-12 weeks, with a cost range from $800 to $2,500.

Median Salary

$38,280

$18.4/hr

Job Growth

12.5%

2024-2034

Training

760 hours

12 weeks typical

Open Positions

Approximately 3,500

Moderately competitive, especially in major cities

Photo by Fotos on Unsplash

The Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) position in Ohio represents a promising career path marked by significant growth and solid earning potential. With a median annual salary of $38,280, CMAs in Ohio earn a competitive wage relative to the cost of living in the state. Nationally, there are currently 811,000 workers in this role, with an expected growth rate of 12.5% by 2034. This growth is fueled by an increasing demand for healthcare services, an aging population, and the expanding scope of duties performed by medical assistants in various healthcare settings.

Ohio offers a distinctive environment for CMAs due to its specific state regulations and a diverse healthcare sector. The state mandates formal training and certification for medical assistants, ensuring that all practitioners meet high standards of competency. Ohio is home to a robust network of hospitals, clinics, and private practices, each contributing to an expansive job market for CMAs. Major healthcare employers such as the Cleveland Clinic and OhioHealth further enhance job prospects by regularly seeking skilled CMAs to support their expansive operations.

This guide will provide an in-depth look at the steps required to become a Certified Medical Assistant in Ohio. Readers will learn about the licensing process, including the educational requirements and certification exams. The guide will also cover detailed salary data and job market analysis, giving prospective CMAs a clear picture of what to expect in terms of compensation and employment opportunities. Through this factual and direct exploration, individuals can accurately assess their potential fit for this career and understand the necessary steps to achieve certification and employment in Ohio.

Licensing Authority

Ohio State Medical Board

In Ohio, Certified Medical Assistants (CMA) must fulfill specific educational, examination, and background requirements to obtain licensure. The state mandates formal training and national examination to ensure qualified professionals in healthcare settings.

Website (614) 466-3934

Processing: 4-6 weeksApplication Fee: USD 50

Official Resources

Ohio State Medical Board

Ohio Requirements

Training Requirements

Education: High school diploma or equivalent
Total Training Hours: 760 hours
Classroom Hours: 560 hours
Clinical Hours: 200 hours
Minimum Age: 18 years old

Additional Requirements

Background check (State and federal) with fingerprinting
CPR certification

Certification Exam

Exam: Certified Medical Assistant Exam (CMA)
Components: Written, Skills demonstration
Fee: USD 125

How to Become a Certified Medical Assistant in Ohio

tuition $500-$2,000, exam fee $125, background check $50, application fee $50, textbooks/supplies $75, scrubs $50

Fastest Path

8 weeks

Typical Timeline

12 weeks

Estimated Cost

$800–$2,500

Verify You Meet Ohio's Prerequisites

Before pursuing certification, confirm you meet Ohio's prerequisites for CMAs. You must be at least 18 years old, have a high school diploma or GED, and be in good health. Visit the Ohio Board of Nursing website to download the 'CMA Candidate Handbook' which includes a checklist of prerequisites and detailed information. Processing times for verifying prerequisites are usually immediate unless you're requesting transcripts, which can take a few days.

1-2 days $25 for transcript request

Tip

Order your high school transcript online through Parchment.com ($15) to avoid a 2-week mail delay from your school's registrar office.

Ohio Board of Nursing Find Approved Programs

Complete Background Check and Health Screenings

Ohio requires a comprehensive background check including both FBI and Ohio state police checks. Visit a local police station or a third-party provider for fingerprinting services. You'll also need to complete health screenings, which include a TB test and possibly a drug screening, available at most clinics. Expect results from background checks within 2-4 weeks, while health screenings are typically quicker.

2-4 weeks $50

Tip

Schedule your health screenings on the same day to minimize visits.

Ohio Attorney General's Office

Research and Choose an Approved Training Program

Select a state-approved training program to ensure eligibility for the CMA exam. Ohio's Board of Nursing provides a list of approved programs. Training consists of 560 classroom hours and 200 clinical hours. Attending a non-approved program means you cannot sit for the exam, wasting both time and money. Visit the Ohio Board of Nursing's website to access the current list of approved programs.

1-3 days $0

Tip

Prioritize programs with high pass rates on the CMA exam.

Ohio Board of Nursing Find Approved Programs

Enroll in and Complete Training

Once you've chosen a program, complete the enrollment process which may include an application form, fee, and interview. The training program consists of 560 classroom hours and 200 clinical hours, focusing on medical procedures, patient care, and ethics. Programs typically run for 8-12 weeks full-time. Ensure all course materials and requirements are met to receive a certificate of completion.

8-12 weeks $500-$2,000

Tip

Keep a log of your clinical hours as proof of completion.

Selected Training Program Find Approved Programs

Prepare for the Competency Exam

Begin preparing for the CMA Competency Exam by reviewing materials covered in your training. The exam includes both written and practical components. Utilize practice exams and study guides available through the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA). Registration for the exam is done through the AAMA website where you can also find additional resources.

2-4 weeks $0

Tip

Focus on areas of weakness highlighted during your training.

American Association of Medical Assistants Find Approved Programs

Register for and Schedule the Exam

Register for the CMA Competency Exam through the AAMA website. The exam fee is $125. Choose a testing location and time that suits your schedule. The exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions and several hands-on tasks, to be completed in a 4-hour session. If you fail, you can reschedule twice within a 12-month period.

1 day $125

Tip

Choose an exam date that gives you ample time for preparation.

American Association of Medical Assistants

Take and Pass the Exam

On the day of the exam, arrive early with two forms of ID and your confirmation number. The exam is split into written and practical sections. Once completed, results are typically available within a few weeks. If you pass, you will receive a pass letter; if you fail, you can apply to reschedule according to the AAMA's guidelines.

1 day $0

Tip

Review all exam materials the night before and get a good night's sleep.

American Association of Medical Assistants

Apply for State Certification/Registry

After passing the exam, apply for your state certification through the Ohio Board of Nursing. This involves submitting your exam results, a completed application form, and the application fee of $50. Processing typically takes 2-4 weeks. Once approved, your name will be added to the Ohio CMA Registry.

2-4 weeks $50

Tip

Ensure all sections of the application are filled out correctly to avoid delays.

Ohio Board of Nursing

Receive Your Certification and Verify on State Registry

Once your application is processed, you will receive your CMA certification via mail. Verify your status on the Ohio Board of Nursing's online registry. This confirmation is crucial for employers verifying your credentials. Typically, your certification will appear online within a few days of approval.

1 week $0

Tip

Check the registry regularly until your name appears to confirm your status.

Ohio Board of Nursing

Find Your First Job

With certification in hand, begin your job search. Utilize online job boards like Indeed, hospital websites, and local healthcare facilities. Networking with classmates and instructors can also lead to job opportunities. Prepare your resume to highlight your CMA certification, training, and any relevant experience.

Varies $0

Tip

Tailor your resume for each job application to reflect the job description.

Indeed Find Approved Programs

Alternative Training Paths

Employer-Sponsored Training at Nursing Homes

Some nursing homes in Ohio offer employer-sponsored training programs for prospective CMAs. These programs often cover tuition costs in exchange for a commitment to work at the facility for a specified period. This path can be a cost-effective way to receive training and secure immediate employment.

Best for: Individuals looking for a low-cost training option and secure employment post-certification

Common Mistakes to Avoid

•Attending a training program not on the Ohio Board of Nursing approved list. You will complete the program but be unable to sit for the state competency exam, wasting both your time and tuition money.

What to Expect on Exam Day

Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) Certification Exam administered by American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA)

Written Test

Questions: 200

Time Limit: 160 minutes

Format: Multiple choice

Passing Score: Scaled score of 430

Topics Covered:

• General: 28%
• Administrative: 25%
• Clinical: 47%

Skills Test

Skills Tested: None

Time Per Skill: N/A

The CMA exam does not include a practical skills test; it is entirely written.

Common Skills:

What to Bring

✓ Government-issued photo ID (e.g., driver's license, passport)
✓ AAMA Examination Permit

Do Not Bring

✗ Personal belongings including bags and books
✗ Electronic devices such as smartphones and smartwatches
✗ Food and drink

Day-of Timeline

Arrive 30 minutes early. Check-in takes 15 minutes. Written test is approximately 2 hours and 40 minutes.

Getting Your Results

Results are issued via the AAMA online portal within 8 weeks of the exam date.

If You Don't Pass

If you fail the CMA exam, you can retake it after 30 days. The cost of a retake is the same as the initial exam fee. There is no limit on the number of retakes allowed in Ohio.

Exam Strategies

1. Focus on time management, aiming to answer each question within 48 seconds to accommodate all questions within the allotted time.
2. Prioritize studying clinical tasks as they represent nearly half of the exam content.
3. Use process of elimination in multiple-choice questions to narrow down options and increase chances of selecting the correct answer.
4. Practice with sample questions from previous exams to familiarize yourself with the format and question styles.

Document Checklist

Every document you need from start to finish

1Before Training

High School Diploma or GED

From previous educational institution or GED testing service · No cost for the original document, but fees apply for copies · 2-4 weeks

Certified copies may be required by some training programs

Immunization Records

From personal physician or local health department · Varies, typically no cost for accessing records · 1-2 weeks

Ensure records are up-to-date, especially for MMR, Varicella, Hepatitis B, and Tdap

Tuberculosis Test Results

From personal physician or local health clinic · Approximately $20-$50 · 48-72 hours after test administration

Some programs require testing to be done within the past 6 months

CPR Certification

American Heart Association or Red Cross · $50-$100

Ensure the certification is for Healthcare Providers

Background Check

Third-party service provider or local police department · $20-$50 · 1-2 weeks

Some training programs require a state-specific background check

2During Training

Enrollment Agreement

Medical assistant training program office · No cost · Immediate

Review and understand the terms before signing

Proof of Health Insurance

Insurance provider · No cost for proof · Immediate to 1 week

Required by some programs for clinical externship participation

Liability Insurance

Insurance provider · Varies based on coverage · 1-2 weeks

Required by most programs for clinical externship

3For the Exam

Exam Application

American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA) website · Exam fee $125 for AAMA members, $250 for non-members

Complete and submit the application by the deadline for desired testing window

Proof of Program Completion

Medical assistant training program office · No cost for initial copy, fees for additional copies

Official document required to sit for the CMA exam

4For Certification

CMA Certification

Received by mail from AAMA after passing the exam · Included in exam fee

Typically arrives 6-8 weeks after passing the exam

After You're Certified: What's Next

Immediately after passing, verify your name is listed on the Ohio State Medical Board's registry. Obtain your physical certificate from the certifying body, typically AAMA or AMT, which might require a fee.

Finding Your First Job

Where to Look

• Ohio-specific job boards like OhioMeansJobs, hospital career pages such as Cleveland Clinic and OhioHealth, and medical job sites like Health eCareers and MedJobsOhio.

Best Employers for New Grads

• Hospitals, private clinics, outpatient care centers, and long-term care facilities. Hospitals offer diverse experience but can be demanding, while private clinics might provide more regular hours with less stress.

Resume Tip: Highlight your certification prominently, list any relevant clinical externships, include soft skills like communication and patient care, and emphasize any volunteer work in healthcare settings.

Interview Tip: Prepare to discuss why you chose the medical assisting profession, how you handle stressful situations, your experience with electronic health records, and scenarios demonstrating patient confidentiality.

Expected First-Year Salary

In Ohio, entry-level CMAs can expect a salary range of $28,000 to $35,000 annually, depending on location and type of employer.

Career Advancement Path

Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) or Medical Technologist

LPN requires a state-approved education program and passing the NCLEX-PN exam. Medical Technologists need a Bachelor's degree and certification from an entity like ASCP.

LPNs can earn $40,000 to $52,000; Medical Technologists might earn $50,000 to $70,000 annually in Ohio.LPN programs typically last 1-2 years; Medical Technologist programs require 4 years for the degree plus time for certification.

Challenges to Prepare For

• Adjusting to fast-paced environments, managing time effectively with multiple patients, and keeping up with changing technology and regulations. Building a support network and seeking mentorship can be beneficial.

Certified Medical Assistant Salary in Ohio

In Ohio, Certified Medical Assistants earn a median annual salary of $38,280, which is lower than the national median of $42,000. The hourly wage in Ohio is approximately $18.40.

Entry Level

$33,500

0-1 years experience

Median Salary

$38,280

$18.4/hr · Bureau of Labor Statistics

Experienced

$45,000

5+ years experience

Compared to National Median

$42,000 national · -8.9% in Ohio

Ranking: Lower third nationally

Salary by Metro Area

Columbus

Columbus offers competitive salaries due to higher demand.

$40,000

Cleveland

Cleveland's healthcare sector is robust, influencing salaries.

$39,000

Cincinnati

Salaries in Cincinnati align closely with the state median.

$38,500

Salary by Employer Type

hospitals$39,000 - $42,000

nursing Homes$36,000 - $39,000

home Health$34,000 - $37,000

staffing Agencies$35,000 - $38,000

Ohio's cost of living is below the national average, which may partially offset the lower salaries for CMAs in the state.

Benefits & Compensation

Common benefits include health insurance, paid time off, and retirement plans. Some employers may also offer tuition assistance.

Salary Growth Outlook

Salary growth for CMAs in Ohio is expected to track closely with national trends, potentially increasing with healthcare demand and individual experience.

Salary Negotiation Tips

•Highlight relevant experience and certifications during negotiations.
•Research typical salaries in your specific Ohio region to inform your discussions.

Job Market in Ohio

The Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) job market in Ohio is expected to grow in alignment with national trends, reflecting a 12.5% increase from 2024 to 2034. This growth is driven by an aging population requiring more healthcare services and an increase in outpatient care centers. Ohio's healthcare infrastructure and policy environment support this expansion, although regional variations exist.

Top Hiring Areas

Columbushigh

Home to large healthcare systems and growing outpatient services

Clevelandmedium

Stable demand influenced by established medical institutions

Cincinnatimedium

Increasing opportunities in suburban health services

Top Hiring Industries

Outpatient Care Centers30%

Hospitals50%

Private Practices20%

Best time to apply: Early spring and late fall

Opportunities

Expansion of roles in telehealth services
Higher demand in geriatric care

Challenges

Competition for positions in major urban centers
Need for continual skill upgrades due to technological advancements

Training Programs in Ohio

Ohio offers several Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) training programs, primarily through community colleges, vocational schools, and employer-sponsored programs. These programs prepare students for the CMA certification exam and are designed to meet the needs of aspiring medical assistants with varying schedules and educational needs.

Program Types Comparison

Type	Duration	Cost	Format	Pros / Cons
Community College	12 to 24 months	$5,000 to $15,000	In-person/Hybrid	+ Comprehensive curriculum + Eligibility for financial aid − Longer duration than other options
Vocational/Trade School	9 to 12 months	$10,000 to $15,000	In-person	+ Focused training for quick entry into the workforce − Higher cost compared to some community colleges
Employer-Sponsored	Varies	Free	On-the-job	+ Earn while you learn − May require employment commitment

Type

Duration

Cost

Format

Pros / Cons

Community College

12 to 24 months

$5,000 to $15,000

In-person/Hybrid

+ Comprehensive curriculum
+ Eligibility for financial aid

− Longer duration than other options

Vocational/Trade School

9 to 12 months

$10,000 to $15,000

In-person

+ Focused training for quick entry into the workforce

− Higher cost compared to some community colleges

Employer-Sponsored

Varies

Free

On-the-job

+ Earn while you learn

− May require employment commitment

Top Programs

Columbus State Community College

Columbus, Ohio

Community College2 yearsApproximately $8,00095% pass rate

High pass rates and extensive alumni network

Sinclair Community College

Dayton, Ohio

Community College24 monthsApproximately $10,000Not available pass rate

Offers both part-time and full-time enrollment options

View all Certified Medical Assistant programs in Ohio →Compare programs nationwide →Salary guide →

Online & Hybrid Options

Several community colleges and private institutions offer hybrid programs combining online coursework with in-person clinical experiences.

How to Choose a Program

•Verify the program's accreditation status to ensure eligibility for the CMA exam.

Financial Aid & Free Training

Many training programs in Ohio offer financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, and work-study positions. Eligibility often depends on financial need or academic merit.

Employer-sponsored apprenticeships

Workforce development programs

Get free Certified Medical Assistant program info for Ohio

Renewal Requirements

Renewal Period

Every 2 years

Renewal Fee

USD 100

CE Hours

10 hours

Work requirement: None specified

CE Topics: Clinical practices, Ethics

Out-of-State Reciprocity

Available

Ohio offers reciprocity for CMAs certified in other states, provided they meet Ohio's standards and have maintained an active certification without disciplinary actions.