How to Become a Medical Assistant in North Dakota

Medical assistants serve as vital members of North Dakota's health care teams, bridging the gap between clinical care and administrative duties. In medical offices and clinics across the Peace Garden State, these professionals work alongside physicians and nurses to ensure smooth patient care delivery while managing essential office operations.

Whether you're drawn to patient care, interested in medical office administration, or excited by the prospect of combining both, a career as a medical assistant in North Dakota offers a direct path into the health care field. From the bustling medical centers of Fargo to rural clinics serving tight-knit communities, medical assistants play an increasingly important role in meeting the state's growing health care needs.

Key Points  

• North Dakota employs approximately four hundred twenty medical assistants, highlighting the demand in the state.  
• The average annual wage for medical assistants in North Dakota is $40,320, with an hourly mean wage of $19.39.  
• The profession is projected to grow 15% nationwide from 2023 to 2033.  
• Accredited medical assistant programs in North Dakota can be completed in nine months to two years.  
• Certification as a CMA (AAMA) is not required by all employers but provides a competitive advantage in the job market.  

What Is a Medical Assistant?

Medical assistants are health care professionals who perform both administrative and clinical tasks in medical offices, clinics, and hospitals. Responsibilities include interviewing patients, recording medical histories, measuring vital signs, assisting physicians with exams, and managing appointment scheduling. Medical assistants may also administer medications under physician supervision, as permitted by state law.  

Medical assistants must have organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to multitask. Communication is a critical skill, as they serve as an intermediary between patients and providers. For a full list of primary responsibilities, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics website.  

Steps to Become a Medical Assistant in North Dakota

1. Complete High School or Obtain a GED

A high school diploma or equivalent is required to begin medical assistant training. Courses such as biology, anatomy, and medical terminology can provide a strong foundation. Proficiency in computers is also beneficial due to the use of electronic health records in the workplace.  

2. Explore and Compare Medical Assistant Programs

Medical assistant programs in North Dakota prepare students for certification and employment. Choosing the right program is essential for gaining the skills and knowledge necessary for success.  

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Importance of Accreditation

Accreditation ensures that programs meet national education standards. Graduating from a program accredited by the CAAHEP or ABHES qualifies students for certification exams like the CMA (AAMA).  

Program Options in North Dakota

• North Dakota State College of Science (NDSCS): NDSCS offers an Associate’s Degree in Medical Assisting that includes clinical externships and prepares students for certification.  
• Lake Region State College: This institution provides a diploma program with hands-on training in clinical settings.  

Online and Hybrid Programs

Online and hybrid programs combine flexibility with practical training. Schools such as Rasmussen University and Dakota College at Bottineau offer online coursework paired with in-person externship opportunities in North Dakota.  

Program Duration and Costs

• Certificate or Diploma Programs: Typically take nine to twelve months to complete and cost between $2,500 and $5,000. For more details, see medical assistant program cost.  
• Associate’s Degree Programs: Take approximately two years and cost between $6,000 and $12,000.  

3. Enroll in and Graduate from an Accredited Program

After selecting a program, complete both classroom coursework and hands-on training. Accredited programs in North Dakota focus on key areas such as patient care, medical office procedures, phlebotomy, and medication administration. Clinical externships, often required, provide real-world experience in health care environments.  

4. Apply for the CMA (AAMA) Certification Exam

Graduates of accredited programs are eligible to take the CMA (AAMA) Certification Exam. Passing this exam demonstrates a high level of competence and enhances job prospects. For application details and fees, visit the AAMA website.  

Certification Exam Information

Fees:  

• $125 for AAMA members  
• $250 for non-members  
• Testing Locations: Prometric testing centers are available in Fargo and Bismarck.  

Membership with the North Dakota Society of Medical Assistants (NDSMA) can reduce certification costs and provide networking opportunities.  

5. Pass the CMA (AAMA) Certification Exam

The CMA (AAMA) exam evaluates knowledge in general, administrative, and clinical fields. Key topics include anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, and patient communication. The exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions, and a minimum score of 430 is required to pass.  

Study guides, practice exams, and review courses are available through the AAMA and local colleges. Approximately 58% of candidates pass the exam on their first attempt.  

6. Search for Medical Assistant Jobs in North Dakota

Certified medical assistants can find diverse employment opportunities in North Dakota. Major employers include hospitals, clinics, and specialty care facilities.  

Key Employers

• Sanford Health: Positions are available in clinics, hospitals, and specialty centers.  
• Essentia Health: Locations in Fargo and surrounding areas hire medical assistants for both clinical and administrative roles.  
• CHI St. Alexius Health: Located in Bismarck, CHI St. Alexius offers roles in outpatient and surgical units.  
• Trinity Health: Based in Minot, Trinity Health provides opportunities in clinics and long-term care facilities.  

Medical assistants in North Dakota earn entry-level salaries of approximately $27,000. Experienced professionals can earn up to $43,000 annually. For nationwide data, see medical assistant salary.  

7. Maintain Certification

Certified medical assistants must renew their CMA (AAMA) credential every five years.  

1. Complete 60 continuing education units (CEUs), with at least 30 approved by the AAMA.  
2. Retake and pass the CMA Certification Exam.  

The North Dakota Society of Medical Assistants (NDSMA) offers CEU opportunities through workshops and seminars. For those registered as a Medication Assistant III, renewal with the North Dakota Board of Nursing is required every two years.  

Licensure in North Dakota

North Dakota requires medical assistants administering medication to graduate from a board-approved program, pass a certification exam, and register as a Medication Assistant III with the Board of Nursing. Learn more at Medical Assistant License and Certification Requirements.  

How Much Do Medical Assistants Make in North Dakota?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, medical assistants in North Dakota earn a mean hourly wage of $19.39. This translates to an average annual salary of $40,320. Wages may vary based on experience, location, and employer, with urban areas offering higher pay rates.  

Frequently Asked Questions

How to become a CMA in North Dakota?  

To become a CMA in North Dakota, complete an accredited medical assistant program, apply for the CMA (AAMA) Certification Exam, and pass the exam to earn certification.  

Can you become a CMA without going to school?  

Certification as a CMA (AAMA) requires graduating from an accredited medical assistant program. Without formal education, CMA certification cannot be obtained.  

What is the fastest you can become a medical assistant?  

Medical assistant certificate programs can be completed in as little as nine months when enrolled full-time.  

Who gets paid more, CMA or MA?  

Certified Medical Assistants (CMAs) often earn more than non-certified medical assistants due to their credential and the additional skills demonstrated.

Starting Your Medical Assistant Career in North Dakota

Medical assistants play a vital role in North Dakota's health care delivery system, working alongside physicians and nurses to provide comprehensive patient care. The position offers opportunities to make meaningful connections with patients while developing valuable clinical and administrative skills that can serve as a foundation for career growth in health care.

If you're ready to pursue a rewarding career in medical assisting, explore accredited medical assistant programs in North Dakota to find the educational path that best fits your goals. Many programs offer flexible scheduling options and hands-on training to help you transition smoothly into this dynamic field.