Top 11 Medical Technician Certifications

Certifications are important for medical technicians in the job market as they demonstrate a commitment to professional development and expertise in the field. They also provide evidence of an individual’s knowledge and skills, which can help employers make more informed hiring decisions. Certifications can also help medical technicians stand out from other candidates with similar qualifications, giving them an edge over those without certifications. In addition, some certifications may be required for certain positions or even entire fields of work, making it necessary for medical technicians to obtain them in order to gain employment.

This article reviews top certifications for Medical Technicians and explains how they can help advance their career.

What are Medical Technician Certifications?

Medical technician certification is a credential that is awarded to individuals who have demonstrated mastery of the knowledge and skills necessary to perform medical laboratory tests. The certification is granted by organizations such as the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) and the National Credentialing Agency for Laboratory Personnel (NCA).

The purpose of medical technician certification is to ensure that medical technicians are competent in performing their duties. Certification shows employers that an individual has met the standards required for successful job performance. It also demonstrates a commitment to professional growth and development.

Medical technicians must pass a series of exams in order to receive certification. These exams measure knowledge, skills, and abilities related to laboratory safety, specimen collection, quality control, instrument operation, and clinical laboratory techniques. Passing these exams demonstrates a high level of competence in performing laboratory procedures accurately and safely.

Having medical technician certification can help individuals obtain employment or advancement in their current positions. It may also provide access to higher salaries and other benefits associated with certified professionals. In addition, many states require medical technicians to be certified before they can practice legally within the state. Lastly, it shows dedication on behalf of an individual who wants to stay up-to-date on the latest advances in medical technology and laboratory science.

Pro Tip: Make sure to research the various medical technician certifications available, and select the certification that best meets your career goals. Additionally, be sure to check with your state’s regulations to ensure that you are eligible for the certification you are pursuing.

Related: What does a Medical Technician do?

Top 11 Medical Technician Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Medical Technicians today.

1. Certified Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT)

A Certified Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT) is a professional who performs laboratory tests to aid in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases. MLTs are responsible for collecting, preparing, and analyzing samples from patients in order to detect abnormalities or diagnose illnesses. They work closely with physicians and other healthcare professionals to ensure accurate results.

It usually takes two years of full-time study to become an MLT. Most programs require applicants to have a high school diploma or equivalent. Courses typically include medical terminology, chemistry, biology, hematology, immunology, urinalysis, clinical microbiology, and phlebotomy. After completing the program requirements, graduates must pass a national certification exam administered by the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP).

The cost of becoming an MLT varies depending on the program chosen and any additional fees associated with it. In addition to tuition costs, students may need to pay for books and supplies as well as examination fees. The average cost of becoming an MLT is around $5,000-$10,000 USD.

To become an MLT you must complete a two-year accredited program in medical laboratory technology or science and pass the ASCP certification exam. Once certified you must maintain your credentials by completing continuing education courses every three years in order to remain active in the profession.

2. Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT)

Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT) is a certification program designed to train individuals in the collection of blood specimens for clinical laboratory testing. The program typically takes between six to eight weeks to complete and consists of classroom instruction, laboratory practice, and hands-on training. Upon completion of the program, students are eligible to take the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT) exam.

To become certified as a CPT, an individual must first complete an accredited phlebotomy training program and pass the NHA CPT exam with a score of at least 70%. The cost of the NHA CPT exam varies depending on location but generally ranges from $115-$135. After passing the exam, individuals must renew their certification every two years by completing 10 continuing education credits or retaking the NHA CPT exam.

3. Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA)

A Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) is a healthcare professional who works in a clinical setting, providing assistance to physicians and other medical professionals. CCMAs are responsible for performing a variety of tasks such as taking vital signs, preparing patients for exams, administering medications, collecting specimens, scheduling appointments, and more.

It typically takes between six months and one year to become a CCMA. To get certified, individuals must complete an accredited program at an approved school or college. This program typically consists of classroom instruction as well as clinical experience in a medical office or hospital. Upon completion of the program, students must pass the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) Certified Clinical Medical Assistant exam to receive certification.

The cost of becoming a CCMA varies depending on the school or college you choose to attend. Generally speaking, tuition costs range from $1,500 - $5,000. In addition to tuition costs there may also be fees associated with textbooks and materials needed for the coursework as well as fees related to taking the certification exam.

4. Certified EKG Technician (CET)

A Certified EKG Technician (CET) is a healthcare professional who performs electrocardiograms (EKGs). An EKG is a test that measures the electrical activity of the heart, which helps in diagnosing and treating various heart conditions. The CET is responsible for setting up the equipment, attaching electrodes to the patient’s chest, arms, and legs, and then monitoring the patient’s heart rhythm during the test.

To become a Certified EKG Technician, you must complete an accredited program offered by either a college or vocational school. These programs typically take around six months to complete and cover topics such as anatomy and physiology of the cardiovascular system, medical terminology related to cardiology, basic pharmacology related to cardiac care, and clinical skills related to performing EKGs. Once you have completed your program, you will need to pass an exam administered by either the National Healthcareer Association or American Medical Technologists in order to receive your certification.

The cost of becoming a Certified EKG Technician can vary depending on where you take your program. Generally speaking, tuition costs range from $1,000-$3,000. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with taking the certification exam.

5. Certified Sterile Processing Technician (CSPT)

A Certified Sterile Processing Technician (CSPT) is a professional who works in the field of sterile processing, which involves preparing and sterilizing medical instruments and supplies for use in operating rooms, clinics, and other healthcare settings. The CSPT certification is offered through the International Association of Healthcare Central Service Materiel Management (IAHCSMM).

To become a CSPT, individuals must have at least one year of full-time experience in sterile processing or equivalent education and training. They must also pass an exam administered by IAHCSMM. The exam consists of 150 multiple choice questions that cover topics such as infection control, decontamination, sterilization, instrumentation assembly and packaging, quality assurance/quality control, safety/risk management, and regulations/standards.

The cost to take the CSPT exam varies depending on whether you are an IAHCSMM member or not. For non-members it costs $200; for members it costs $175. The exam can be taken online or in person at a testing center. It typically takes about three hours to complete the exam.

6. Certified Medical Administrative Assistant (CMAA)

Certified Medical Administrative Assistants (CMAA) are healthcare professionals who specialize in providing administrative support to medical offices and other healthcare facilities. They are responsible for a variety of tasks, including scheduling appointments, filing patient records, processing insurance claims, and managing billing systems.

The Certified Medical Administrative Assistant (CMAA) certification is offered by the National Healthcareer Association (NHA). It is designed to demonstrate competency in medical office administration and provide recognition of professional achievement. To qualify for the certification, applicants must have at least one year of experience in a medical office setting or complete an accredited training program.

It typically takes about three months to prepare for the CMAA exam. Candidates must study topics such as medical terminology, coding systems, insurance claims processing, and basic computer skills. Additionally, they should become familiar with the NHA’s Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct.

The cost of taking the CMAA exam varies depending on where you take it. The test fee is usually around $125-150 USD. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with registering for the exam or taking a review course prior to taking the test.

7. Registered Health Information Technician (RHIT)

A Registered Health Information Technician (RHIT) is a professional credential that certifies individuals to work in the field of health information management. They are responsible for managing and maintaining patient records, coding medical procedures, and ensuring accuracy and privacy of health information.

It takes two years to get an Associate’s degree in Health Information Technology or a related field from an accredited college or university in order to become an RHIT. The program must be approved by the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA). After completing the degree, you must pass the RHIT exam administered by AHIMA.

The cost of the RHIT exam is $199 for members of AHIMA and $299 for non-members. The total cost of getting your RHIT certification will depend on the cost of tuition at your school and any other fees associated with taking the exam.

In addition to passing the exam, you must also meet certain requirements such as having one year of experience working in health information management or completion of an approved internship program before taking the exam. You must also renew your certification every three years by completing continuing education credits.

8. Certified Ophthalmic Assistant (COA)

A Certified Ophthalmic Assistant (COA) is a healthcare professional who specializes in providing assistance to ophthalmologists, optometrists, and other eye care professionals. The COA is responsible for performing basic vision tests, administering eye medications, assisting with minor surgeries, and helping patients select eyeglasses or contact lenses.

To become a Certified Ophthalmic Assistant (COA), one must complete an accredited program of study at an approved school of ophthalmology. These programs typically take two years to complete and include both classroom instruction and clinical experience. After completing the program, applicants must pass the COA certification exam administered by the Joint Commission on Allied Health Personnel in Ophthalmology (JCAHPO).

The cost of obtaining a COA certification varies depending on the school attended. In addition to tuition fees, students may need to pay for textbooks and other materials related to their studies. Once certified, there are annual renewal fees associated with maintaining the certification.

9. Certified Orthotic Fitter (COF)

Certified Orthotic Fitter (COF) is a professional certification offered by the American Board for Certification in Orthotics, Prosthetics & Pedorthics (ABC). The COF credential is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and proficiency in the practice of orthotic fitting.

To become certified, an individual must first complete an accredited orthotic fitter program. This program typically takes between six months and one year to complete, depending on the specific program requirements. Upon completion of the program, applicants must pass the ABC’s Certified Orthotic Fitter exam.

The cost of becoming certified as a COF varies depending on the program chosen and other factors such as travel expenses for attending conferences or seminars. Generally speaking, the cost of obtaining this certification ranges from $1,000 to $2,500.

10. Certified Surgical Technologist (CST)

Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) is a professional certification for individuals who have completed an accredited surgical technology program and passed the national certification exam. The CST certification is administered by the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA). The CST credential is designed to demonstrate mastery of the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to practice as a surgical technologist.

It typically takes two years to complete an accredited surgical technology program. After completing the program, graduates must pass the NBSTSA's Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) exam in order to become certified. The exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as anatomy, physiology, medical terminology, infection control, instrumentation, patient positioning and safety protocols.

The cost of becoming a Certified Surgical Technologist varies depending on the institution offering the training program. Generally speaking, it can range from $2,000-$10,000 for tuition and fees associated with completing a two-year program. Additionally, there is an application fee of $50 for taking the CST exam and a fee of $250 for taking the exam itself.

11. Radiologic Technologist Certification (RT(R))

Radiologic Technologist Certification (RT(R)) is a certification program administered by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT). The certification is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated competency in radiologic technology.

In order to be eligible for RT(R) certification, applicants must meet certain educational and clinical requirements. These include graduating from an accredited radiography program and completing a minimum of 24 months of full-time clinical experience in radiography.

Once these requirements are met, applicants can apply for the RT(R) exam, which consists of two parts: a written exam and a practical exam. The written exam covers topics such as anatomy, pathology, radiation protection, imaging procedures, equipment operation, patient care and positioning. The practical exam tests the applicant’s ability to perform radiographic examinations on simulated patients.

The entire process of obtaining RT(R) certification typically takes between 6 to 12 months depending on the individual’s progress through the application process and their performance on the exams.

The cost of obtaining RT(R) certification varies depending on the individual’s situation but typically ranges between $200-$700 USD. This cost includes registration fees for both exams as well as any additional fees associated with applying or taking the exams.

Do You Really Need a Medical Technician Certificate?

The decision to pursue a medical technician certificate should be based on your individual career goals. If you are interested in working as a medical technician, then the answer is yes; having a certificate can be beneficial.

A medical technician certificate is an important credential that demonstrates you have the skills and knowledge necessary to work in the field. It can also help you stand out among other applicants when searching for jobs, as employers often prefer candidates with formal education or certification. Plus, many employers may require certification before they will consider hiring someone.

In addition to providing proof of your qualifications and experience, a medical technician certificate can also give you the opportunity to specialize in certain areas of healthcare. For example, some certificates offer specializations in laboratory work or radiology imaging technology. This type of specialization could make you more attractive to employers looking for specific skills or expertise.

Lastly, having a medical technician certificate could open up opportunities for additional training or certifications that could lead to greater job security and higher wages over time.

In short, if you want to work as a medical technician and have the opportunity to further specialize and advance your career, then obtaining a medical technician certificate could be beneficial for you.

Related: Medical Technician Resume Examples

FAQs About Medical Technician Certifications

1. What certifications are available for Medical Technicians?

Answer: There are several certifications available for Medical Technicians, including Certified Clinical Medical Technician (CCMT), Registered Medical Technician (RMT), and Certified Medical Laboratory Technician (CMLT).

2. What type of training is required to become a certified Medical Technician?

Answer: To become a certified Medical Technician, you will need to complete an accredited medical technician program, which includes classroom instruction and clinical experience. Additionally, some states may require passing the National Certification Examination in order to become certified.

3. How long does it take to become a certified Medical Technician?

Answer: The length of time it takes to complete the necessary training and certification process can vary depending on the specific program and state requirements. Generally speaking, it can take anywhere from 1-2 years to complete all of the necessary requirements.

4. Are there any continuing education requirements for maintaining a medical technician certification?

Answer: Yes, most certifying organizations require that medical technicians obtain continuing education credits in order to maintain their certification status. It is important to check with your specific certifying organization for more information regarding their continuing education requirements.

5. Is there an age requirement for becoming a certified Medical Technician?

Answer: No, there is no age requirement for becoming a certified medical technician; however, some states may have additional restrictions based on age or other criteria that must be considered before beginning training or applying for certification.