How to Become a Medical Assistant in Iowa

Medical assistants serve as vital members of Iowa's health care teams, combining clinical expertise with administrative skills to keep medical practices running smoothly. From small family clinics to large hospital systems, these professionals work directly with patients while supporting physicians and other medical staff in delivering quality care.

The path to becoming a medical assistant in Iowa offers flexibility in education options and work environments. With multiple accredited programs across the state and strong relationships between schools and local health care facilities, aspiring medical assistants can gain hands-on experience while preparing for a career that balances patient care with practical medical office management.

Key Points  

• Medical assistants play an integral role in Iowa’s health care system, managing clinical and administrative responsibilities.  
• Certification is not required by Iowa law, but many employers prefer it for hiring.  
• The field is projected to grow 15% nationally by 2033, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.  
• Iowa employs approximately 4,830 medical assistants, with an average annual wage of $42,660.  

What is a Medical Assistant?

Medical assistants in Iowa handle both administrative and clinical tasks to support health care providers. They may assist with patient examinations, measure vital signs, give injections under a physician’s supervision, and schedule appointments. Their responsibilities vary depending on the size and type of the practice.  

Administrative duties often include managing electronic health records, processing billing, and scheduling office visits. Clinical tasks may involve sterilizing instruments, collecting lab specimens, and updating patient medical histories. Medical assistants must balance technical skills with strong interpersonal communication to deliver quality care to patients.  

Steps to Become a Medical Assistant in Iowa

1. Complete High School or Earn a GED

A high school diploma or GED is required to pursue a career as a medical assistant in Iowa. High school courses in biology, chemistry, and anatomy can provide a strong foundation for future training.  

Some programs in Iowa, such as those at Des Moines Area Community College, may require applicants to meet GPA thresholds or submit standardized test scores. Reviewing program-specific admission requirements early can help ensure eligibility.  

2. Compare Accredited Medical Assistant Programs in Iowa

Choosing the right program is a critical step. Accredited programs in Iowa prepare students for national certification and provide hands-on clinical training. Below are program details to consider.  

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DMACC Medical Assistant Program

Des Moines Area Community College offers a diploma program in Ankeny that is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP). The program includes classroom instruction, lab work, and a supervised 10-week practicum. Students can complete the program in approximately one year, with tuition estimated at $8,498.  

Mercy College of Health Sciences

Mercy College of Health Sciences in Des Moines offers a hybrid medical assistant certificate program. Students complete online coursework while attending in-person lab sessions. The program is designed for completion within one year, with tuition costs around $10,000. Graduates are eligible to take the CMA (AAMA) exam.  

Western Iowa Tech Community College

Located in Sioux City, the medical assistant diploma program at Western Iowa Tech Community College combines classroom learning with clinical practice. The three-semester program has an in-state tuition cost of approximately $9,494 and boasts high job placement rates.  

Financial Aid Opportunities

Iowa residents may qualify for the Future Ready Iowa Last-Dollar Scholarship, designed to cover tuition for high-demand career programs. Contact individual program financial aid offices to explore additional scholarship and grant options.  

Importance of Accreditation

Accreditation from organizations such as CAAHEP or the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools is vital. Accredited programs meet national standards, ensuring students are eligible for certifications like the CMA (AAMA).  

3. Enroll in an Accredited Medical Assistant Program

Medical assistant programs in Iowa typically last nine months to one year for certificates or diplomas. Associate degree programs take up to two years. Coursework includes topics such as medical terminology, anatomy, pharmacology, and clinical procedures.  

Students also complete a practicum or externship in a health care facility. These experiences provide real-world training in tasks like taking patient vitals, administering medications, and documenting medical records. For example, DMACC partners with local clinics to ensure students gain hands-on skills.  

4. Pursue Certification

Certification enhances job prospects, even though Iowa does not require it. The CMA (AAMA) certification is widely recognized and requires passing an exam administered by the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA).  

Steps to apply for certification include:  

• Completing an accredited program.  
• Submitting an application to the AAMA and paying the exam fee ($125 for AAMA members, $250 for non-members).  
• Scheduling the exam at a PSI Testing Center.  

Other certifications, such as the Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) or National Certified Medical Assistant (NCMA), are also available. Each certification has unique eligibility requirements and fees.  

5. Pass the Certification Exam

The CMA (AAMA) exam evaluates clinical, administrative, and foundational medical knowledge. It consists of 200 multiple-choice questions covering:  

• Anatomy and pharmacology.  
• Clinical procedures such as infection control and patient preparation.  
• Administrative topics, including medical billing and electronic health records.  

Candidates must score at least 430 to pass. Many students prepare using study guides or online resources. Mercy College of Health Sciences offers review courses tailored to the exam.  

6. Begin Your Job Search in Iowa

Medical assistants in Iowa work in clinics, outpatient centers, and hospitals. The state employs approximately 4,830 medical assistants, with employment concentrated in cities like Des Moines, Cedar Rapids, and Sioux City.  

Top Employers in Iowa

• University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics (Iowa City): Offers roles in specialty clinics and outpatient care.  
• MercyOne Des Moines Medical Center: Employs medical assistants in family medicine and specialty practices.  
• UnityPoint Health (Multiple Locations): Frequently hires for positions in primary care clinics.  

Medical assistants in Iowa earn an average annual salary of $42,660 or $20.51 per hour, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.  

7. Renew Certification

CMA (AAMA) certification must be renewed every five years. Renewal options include:
1. Completing sixty continuing education units (CEUs), with a minimum of thirty approved by the AAMA.
2. Passing the certification exam again if CEUs are not completed.  

Failing to renew within five years requires retaking the exam to reinstate certification.  

Resources Available in Iowa

• Iowa Society of Medical Assistants (ISMA): Provides networking, continuing education, and career resources.  
• Iowa Workforce Development: Offers tools like resume workshops and job fairs tailored to health care careers.  
• Future Ready Iowa: Details scholarship opportunities and tuition assistance for high-demand fields.  

By following these steps, aspiring medical assistants in Iowa can gain the skills and credentials needed for a rewarding career.  

Licensure in Iowa

Medical assistants in Iowa are not required to hold a state license. However, most employers prefer candidates who have completed accredited programs and earned certifications. For more details, visit Medical Assistant License and Certification Requirements.  

How Much Do Medical Assistants Make in Iowa?

Medical assistants in Iowa earn an average hourly wage of $20.51, with an annual mean salary of $42,660. Wages may be higher in urban areas or for those with specialized skills.  

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to become a medical assistant in Iowa?  

Most certificate or diploma programs in Iowa take between nine months and one year to complete. Associate degree programs may take up to two years.  

Can you become a CMA without going to school?  

Certification exams such as the CMA (AAMA) require completion of an accredited education program.  

How do I get my CMA in Iowa?  

To earn a CMA, complete an accredited program, apply for the CMA (AAMA) exam, and achieve a passing score.  

Does Iowa require medical assistants to be certified?  

Certification is not required by law in Iowa, but many employers prefer or require it for hiring.

Start Your Medical Assistant Career in Iowa

Medical assistants serve as essential team members in Iowa's growing health care landscape. The role combines clinical expertise with administrative skills, offering opportunities to work directly with patients while supporting medical practices. From rural clinics to urban medical centers, medical assistants enjoy diverse work environments and the satisfaction of helping others maintain their health and wellness.

Ready to take the first step? Compare accredited medical assistant programs to find the right fit for your career goals. Visit our comprehensive directory of medical assistant programs in Iowa to explore program options, admission requirements, and start dates at schools near you.