Individuals are not required to have a license or certification to become a medical assistant. However, most people prefer to get a certificate to prove that they have an advanced knowledge of their profession. This may be because of the fact that most hospitals and clinics require medical assistants to have a certificate before performing certain tasks, such as using x-ray machines and drawing blood samples from patients. By having a medical assistant certificate, you'll have better chances of getting a job or a promotion at work. To get a medical assistant certificate, a person has to graduate from a medical assistant training school. However, before enrolling, make sure that the training program has been approved by the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education, the National Healthcare Association or the Accreditation of Allied Health Programs. These organizations ensure that the program provides premiere education that teaches students about the duties, tasks and responsibilities of an effective medical assistant. A medical assistant training program could last for nine months to a year or more, depending on what the school or university offers. These programs feature focused and applied tutorials that will help students learn more about the responsibilities of a medical assisant. The class will also empower students with the skills required to work in hospitals and clinics. After graduation, medical assistants are more effective in providing the highest level of care for patients. In addition, the training is generally affordable, especially compared to health degree programs that could last for two or four years. Upon completion of the training program, you will be required to take the AAMA exam. Once you pass, you'll receive your credentials, along with a medical assistant certificate. This proves that you have finished the training, and that you are eligible to work as a certified medical assistant. You'll feel more confident after finishing the class, as you will thoroughly understand the different tasks involved in working as a medical assistant. The work is comprised of various challenges, but the chances for success in a career as a medical assistant are truly great.