What is the difference between CMA and RMA?

CMA is an abbreviation for the acronym Certified Medical Assistant which is usually a qualification awarded by the AMAA, which means the American Association of a medical assistant. The certification is usually being renewed at a five years interval so as to keep updated with the new knowledge and discoveries. While the RMA is also an abbreviation which means, Registered Medical Assistant, this credential is usually awarded or given out by the AMT, which means American Medical Technologists whose accreditation was awarded by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies.

Requirements for the qualification for RMA include good moral standards, being a recent or fresh graduate from a medical assistant course or program which has been accredited by either ABHES or CAHEEP. Also, the person applying must be a practicing medical assistant for at least five years. One would need to pass an exam before awarded the certificate. The requirement to apply for CMA is similar to RMA.