Career guide

How to become a Medical Administrative Assistant

Run the front office of a clinic: scheduling, check-in, records and insurance.

Training time
A few weeks to a few months
Certification
NHA CMAA
Median pay
$45,930 per year
BLS, May 2025 · medical secretaries & administrative assistants
Where you'll work
Physician offices, clinics, hospitals
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What a Medical Admin does

  • Schedule appointments and check patients in
  • Update electronic health records
  • Verify insurance and collect payments
  • Answer phones and coordinate referrals

Steps to get started

  1. Pick a state-approved or accredited program. Check your state's requirements first; they differ.
  2. Complete classroom (often online) and hands-on training.
  3. Pass the certification exam: NHA CMAA.
  4. Apply for jobs. Many employers hire right out of training.

See requirements by state.

Where it can lead

Medical admins often move into office management or billing and coding.

Find Medical Admin programs

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