You might be a student currently in an allied health program or already employed in health care. Certification is a way to validate your commitment to your profession. There are many certifications for various allied health careers, such as phlebotomy technicians, medical administrative assistants, electrocardiogram technicians, pharmacy technicians, and patient care assistants. Here are four popular health care career choices and the certifications for each.
Medical Biller and Coder
The medical billing and coding profession has certification opportunities available through medical billing and coding schools and classes. Employers generally prefer that professionals in this industry have certification to demonstrate competency, skill, and ability. A certificate also shows a prospective employer your commitment to a chosen career path. Certification will supply you with high-level knowledge that you will need to succeed in this career. Depending on the specific credential, you might encounter classes, training, and exams. You will also need to satisfy the different processes for recertification. The American Association of Professional Coders and the American Health Information Management Association offer certifications in these disciplines.
Medical Assistant
The Bureau of Labor Statistics writes that there are five main certifications for medical assistants that the National Commission approves for certifying agencies. These certifications include the following:
- Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) from the American Association of Medical Assistants
- Registered Medical Assistant (RMA) from American Medical Technologists
- National Certified Medical Assistant (NCMA) from the National Center for Competency Testing
- Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) from the National Health Career Association
- Certified Medical Administrative Assistant (CMAA) from the National Health Career Association
Physical Therapist
According to the American Physical Therapy Association, all aspiring physical therapists must graduate from a physical therapy doctorate program (becoming a DPT.) The program includes classroom lectures, lab work, and clinical experience. After graduating from a program, a candidate must pass an exam to gain licensure. Individual states might have additional licensing requirements, such as a specified amount of practical experience. All states require that physical therapists pass the National Physical Therapy Examination.
Occupational Therapist
Certification for occupational therapists is voluntary, but it does show your level of commitment to your profession. Becoming certified requires that you pass an exam administered by the National Board for Certification of Occupational Therapy. This certification intends to provide a standard of care, and you are required to take continuing education classes to maintain your certification over time. All states require occupational therapists to be licensed. To obtain a license, you need a degree from an accredited program and your certification.
If you are an allied health professional searching for a career opportunity, check out what Arbor Associates has to offer. The professional recruiters at Arbor Associates can assist you with temporary, temporary to hire, or direct hire placements. Meet your allied health career goals today by contacting Arbor Associates!