Common Medical Assistant Benefits for 2025

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

Sorting through the details of medical assistant benefits in the USA can feel like a maze. Reliable information is scattered, and it's tough to get a clear picture of what's really offered. As someone familiar with the landscape, I understand the difficulties in finding accurate, up-to-date details on compensation packages for medical assistants.

Many sources offer incomplete or generalized views, failing to address the nuances across different states, healthcare systems, and employer types. This introduction aims to clarify the typical benefits you might expect, the factors influencing these benefits, and where to look for the most reliable information. Let's cut through the confusion and get you the insights you need.

Key Things You Should Know About Medical Assistant Benefits

Degree Required: To become a medical assistant, completing a postsecondary medical assistant program is generally required. These programs typically award a certificate or an associate's degree.
Degree Cost: Medical assistant certificate programs usually take 8-18 months to complete and cost between $1,500 to $26,780. Diploma programs are similar, with tuition ranging from $3,720 to $32,900. An associate's degree typically costs between $6,100 and $40,550. Online programs are often shorter, usually under a year, and range from $1,500 to $5,000.
Salary Range: In 2025, Certified Medical Assistants in the U.S. earn an average of $43,211, though salaries vary by location. New York averages $50,471, Seattle $47,662, and Montana $40,359, while Oregon and Washington report $43,903 and $46,582, respectively.
Job Outlook: As of 2023, there were 783,900 medical assistant positions, and employment in the field is expected to grow by 15% from 2023 to 2033, adding approximately 118,000 new jobs—an increase much faster than the average for all careers.

What are some common medical assistant benefits for 2025?
What other benefits are medical assistants entitled to?
What legal benefits can medical assistants avail themselves of?
Do most medical assistant jobs in the USA offer 401(k) or other retirement plans?
How does the availability of benefits affect the overall compensation package for medical assistants?
What subspecialties can medical assistants pursue?
What is the job market like for medical assistants?
How much can you earn as a medical assistant?
How does pursuing additional education in health information management influence career benefits?
How can advanced education impact long-term career benefits for medical assistants?
Can diversifying your educational background improve your benefits package?
What are some certifications and continuing education opportunities for medical assistants?
Are there significant differences in medical assistant benefits across various states in the USA?
How can medical assistants negotiate a better benefits package?
Other Things You Should Know About Medical Assistant Benefits

What are some common medical assistant benefits for 2025?

Medical assistants in the USA often receive a comprehensive benefits package as part of their employment, contributing significantly to their overall well-being and job satisfaction. These benefits can vary by employer but frequently include aspects related to health, time off, financial security, and professional growth.

Health and Well-being Benefits

Major Medical Insurance: Coverage for doctor visits, hospital stays, emergency care, surgeries, and prescription medications is a cornerstone of many benefits packages.
Dental Insurance: Plans often cover routine cleanings, X-rays, and sometimes basic restorative procedures.
Vision Insurance: Assistance with the costs of eye exams, eyeglasses, and contact lenses is frequently included.
Disability Insurance: Short-term and long-term coverage provides income replacement if an illness or injury prevents working.
Life Insurance: Many employers offer a base level of life insurance coverage for their employees.

When evaluating job offers, professionals comparing CMA vs RMA career paths may also weigh differences in benefit availability, as some employers may tailor perks based on certification type.

Time Off and Leave Benefits

Paid Time Off (PTO): A common benefit that combines vacation, personal, and sick days into a single pool of paid leave.
Sick Leave: Some employers offer dedicated paid time off specifically for illness.
Holiday Pay: Paid days off for recognized federal and sometimes state holidays are often provided.

Financial and Retirement Benefits

Retirement Savings Plans: Opportunities to save for retirement, sometimes with employer matching contributions, are increasingly common.
Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs): Allow pre-tax contributions for eligible healthcare or dependent care expenses.

Medical billing and coding professionals also enjoy similar benefits, and understanding the CPC vs CCS salary differences can help guide career decisions for those considering transitions between clinical and administrative roles.

Professional Development and Other Perks

Tuition Reimbursement: Some employers support further education or certifications related to the medical field.
Employee Discounts: Discounts on healthcare services or other products and services may be available.

For those aiming to switch or advance into coding roles, it’s helpful to research the medical billing and coding course duration, as it influences how quickly one can qualify for new positions.

These common benefits demonstrate the value employers place on their medical assistants' well-being and long-term security. The specific details and availability of these benefits should be carefully reviewed when considering employment opportunities.

According to American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA) data, among the Insurance benefits received by full-time certified medical assistants, dental insurance is the most commonly received insurance benefit at 83%. Following closely are paid vacation at 81% and vision insurance at 79%. A significant majority, 70%, of full-time CMAs also receive major medical insurance.

The data, shown in the graph below, indicates a downward trend in the prevalence of other insurance benefits, with disability coverage reported by 62%, sick leave by 56%, and accidental death benefits by 52%. Less common are basic hospitalization at 40% and discount prescription benefits at 37%. Notably, professional liability insurance is received by only 22% of full-time CMAs, while a small percentage, 5%, report receiving other unspecified insurance benefits, and another 5% report receiving no insurance benefits at all. This information highlights the varying levels of insurance coverage within the benefits packages of full-time certified medical assistants.

AAMA data also indicates that a large majority of full-time CMAs, specifically 95%, report receiving benefits as part of their employment. Conversely, a small percentage, only 5%, of full-time CMAs in the survey do not receive benefits.

Additionally, the certified professional coder salary can be a motivating factor, especially for medical assistants looking to diversify their healthcare credentials.

What other benefits are medical assistants entitled to?

Beyond the standard health, time off, and retirement benefits, medical assistants may be entitled to a range of additional perks and support that enhance their work environment and personal lives. These supplementary benefits can contribute to job satisfaction and overall quality of life.

Additional Insurance and Financial Support

Accidental Death and Dismemberment (AD&D) Insurance: Provides a payout in the event of death or dismemberment due to an accident.
Hospital Indemnity Insurance: Offers cash benefits for each day of a hospital stay, supplementing major medical coverage.
Critical Illness Insurance: Provides a lump-sum payment upon diagnosis of a covered critical illness, such as cancer or a heart attack.
Health Savings Accounts (HSAs): Available with certain high-deductible health plans, offering tax advantages for saving and spending on healthcare.

Work-Life Balance and Support Programs

Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs): Provide confidential counseling, resources, and support for personal and work-related issues.
Wellness Programs: Initiatives promoting employee health through gym discounts, health screenings, or wellness challenges.
Childcare Assistance: Some employers may offer on-site childcare or financial assistance for childcare expenses.
Commuter Benefits: Allow pre-tax dollars to be set aside for commuting costs, such as public transportation or parking.

Professional Growth and Recognition

Continuing Education Allowances: Funds provided to attend workshops, conferences, or online courses to maintain certifications and enhance skills.
Professional Organization Membership: Some employers may cover the cost of membership in relevant professional associations.
Employee Recognition Programs: Initiatives to acknowledge and reward employees for their contributions and achievements.

These additional benefits highlight the diverse ways employers can support their medical assistants' holistic well-being and professional development. The availability of these benefits can be an important factor in evaluating the attractiveness of a job offer. If you want to move up in your career, completing MA to LPN bridge program online offerings from reputable institutions is a good start.

What legal benefits can medical assistants avail themselves of?

Medical assistants, like all employees in the USA, are entitled to certain legal benefits and protections mandated by federal and state laws. These regulations ensure fair treatment, workplace safety, and access to specific types of leave.

Workplace Protections and Rights

Minimum Wage and Overtime Pay: The Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) sets federal minimum wage and overtime pay requirements, which most medical assistants are entitled to.
Workplace Safety: The Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA) ensures employers provide a safe and healthy work environment.
Protection Against Discrimination: Laws such as the Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) laws prohibit discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or genetic information.1
Right to Organize: The National Labor Relations Act (NLRA) protects employees' rights to form, join, or assist labor organizations.

Leave and Accommodation Rights

Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA): Eligible employees can take up to 12 weeks of unpaid, job-protected leave for specified family and medical reasons.
Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA): Requires employers to provide reasonable accommodations to qualified employees with disabilities.
State-Specific Leave Laws: Many states have their own laws providing additional or expanded leave benefits, such as paid sick leave or family leave.

Healthcare and Insurance Related Rights

Affordable Care Act (ACA) Protections: Ensures access to affordable health insurance and prohibits certain discriminatory practices by insurance companies.
Workers' Compensation: Provides benefits to employees who are injured or become ill as a direct result of their job.
Unemployment Insurance: Provides temporary income to eligible workers who lose their jobs through no fault of their own.

Understanding these legal benefits empowers medical assistants to advocate for their rights and ensure they are treated fairly in the workplace. These protections form a fundamental framework for employment standards across the country. If you want additional certification in this area, some ABA approved online paralegal programs can be of help.

According to BLS data from 2024, California had the highest employment level for medical assistants with 110,280 positions. Texas followed with 66,720 employed medical assistants, and Florida had 55,110. New York and Michigan also showed significant employment numbers, with 39,860 and 26,370 medical assistants employed, respectively.

The trend in this data indicates that states with larger populations and more extensive healthcare infrastructure tend to have the highest levels of employment for medical assistants. California's leading position likely reflects its large population and numerous healthcare facilities. These figures, shown in the graphic below, highlight the geographic distribution of medical assistant jobs across the United States in 2024.

Which states have the highest CMA employment levels?

Do most medical assistant jobs in the USA offer 401(k) or other retirement plans?

The prevalence of 401(k) or other retirement plans among medical assistant jobs in the USA is significant but not universal. While many healthcare organizations recognize the importance of offering retirement benefits, the availability can depend on factors such as the size of the employer, whether it's a private practice or a large hospital system, and the overall benefits package offered.

Availability of Retirement Plans

Larger Healthcare Systems: Larger hospitals and medical centers are more likely to offer 401(k) plans, often with employer matching contributions.
Private Practices: The availability in smaller private practices can vary; some may offer retirement plans, while others may not due to cost considerations.
Employer Match: When offered, many 401(k) plans include an employer match, where the employer contributes a certain percentage of the employee's contribution, up to a limit.
Other Retirement Options: Besides 401(k)s, some employers might offer other retirement savings plans like Simplified Employee Pension Plans (SEPs) or Savings Incentive Match Plans for Employees (SIMPLE IRAs).

Factors Influencing Retirement Plan Availability

Size of the Organization: Larger organizations typically have more resources to administer and contribute to retirement plans.
Profitability: The financial health of the employer can influence its ability to offer retirement benefits.
Industry Standards: The healthcare industry generally recognizes the importance of benefits to attract and retain employees.

While a significant portion of medical assistant jobs in the USA do offer some form of retirement savings plan, it is crucial for job seekers to inquire specifically about these benefits during the hiring process. Retirement plans represent a valuable component of long-term financial security.

How does the availability of benefits affect the overall compensation package for medical assistants?

The availability and quality of benefits significantly influence the overall compensation package for medical assistants, extending beyond just the base salary. A comprehensive benefits package can add substantial value to an employment offer, even if the base pay is not the highest.

Impact on Total Value

Hidden Value: Benefits like health insurance, retirement contributions, and paid time off represent significant financial value that employees would otherwise need to cover themselves.
Trade-offs: Sometimes, a lower base salary might be offered in conjunction with a more robust benefits package, and vice versa.
Attraction and Retention: Employers often use competitive benefits packages to attract qualified candidates and retain their existing workforce.

Specific Benefit Examples

Health Insurance: Employer-sponsored health insurance can save employees thousands of dollars annually compared to purchasing individual coverage.
Retirement Matching: Employer matching contributions to a 401(k) essentially provide "free money" towards an employee's retirement savings.
Paid Time Off: PTO allows employees to take time off without losing income, representing a tangible financial benefit.

Evaluating Overall Compensation

Total Rewards Approach: Savvy job seekers consider the entire "total rewards" package, including salary, benefits, and other perks, rather than focusing solely on the hourly wage or annual salary.
Personal Needs: The value of specific benefits can vary based on an individual's circumstances (e.g., someone with a family might place a higher value on comprehensive health insurance).

The availability and quality of benefits are integral components of a medical assistant's overall compensation. Understanding the value of these benefits is essential for evaluating job offers and appreciating the full extent of an employer's investment in their employees.

What subspecialties can medical assistants pursue?

While the core responsibilities of a medical assistant are generally consistent, there are opportunities for specialization within the field. Pursuing a subspecialty can allow medical assistants to develop more focused skills, work in specific medical settings, and potentially enhance their career prospects.

Clinical Subspecialties

Podiatric Medical Assistant: Assists podiatrists with foot and ankle care, including taking X-rays, applying casts, and providing patient education.
Ophthalmic Medical Assistant: Works with ophthalmologists, performing vision tests, assisting with minor surgical procedures, and managing patient records.
Surgical Medical Assistant: Assists surgeons before, during, and after surgical procedures, preparing patients and instruments, and ensuring a sterile environment.
Pediatric Medical Assistant: Specializes in the care of infants, children, and adolescents, requiring specific knowledge of pediatric health and development.
Geriatric Medical Assistant: Focuses on the unique healthcare needs of elderly patients, often requiring sensitivity to age-related conditions.
Cardiology Medical Assistant: Assists cardiologists with procedures like electrocardiograms (EKGs), Holter monitoring, and patient education on heart health.
Dermatology Medical Assistant: Works with dermatologists, assisting with skin examinations, minor surgical procedures, and patient education on skin care.

Administrative and Technical Subspecialties

Electronic Health Records (EHR) Specialist: Focuses on managing and maintaining electronic health record systems, ensuring accuracy and efficiency.
Medical Office Manager: With experience and further education, a medical assistant can move into a management role, overseeing the administrative and clinical operations of a medical office.

Of course, before one can reap the benefits of these specializations, one has to become an MA first; medical assistant degree online 6 weeks programs are worth looking into. Pursuing a subspecialty often involves additional training, certifications, or on-the-job experience in the specific area of focus. This can lead to more specialized roles and potentially greater career satisfaction.

What is the job market like for medical assistants?

The job market for medical assistants in the USA is generally very positive and projected to experience strong growth. Several factors contribute to this favorable outlook, making it a promising career path.

Aging Population: As the baby boomer generation ages, the demand for healthcare services, including those provided by medical assistants, is increasing. Most fast track medical assistant program courses can help you get into the field quickly.
Growth in Healthcare Industries: The healthcare sector continues to expand due to advancements in medical technology and a greater emphasis on preventive care.
Cost-Effectiveness: Medical assistants can perform a wide range of clinical and administrative tasks at a lower cost than nurses or physicians, making them valuable to healthcare practices.
Shift Towards Outpatient Care: More medical procedures and treatments are being performed in outpatient settings, such as clinics and physicians' offices, where medical assistants are essential.

In 2024, medical assistants earned a median salary of $44,200 annually, or about $21.25 per hour. As of 2023, there were 783,900 medical assistant positions, and employment in the field is expected to grow by 15% from 2023 to 2033, adding approximately 118,000 new jobs—an increase much faster than the average for all careers. These are shown in the graphic below.

What are some stats on medical assistants in the USA?

Overall, the job market for medical assistants in the USA is robust and offers excellent prospects for individuals seeking a career in healthcare support. The increasing demand across various healthcare settings ensures a wide range of employment opportunities.

How much can you earn as a medical assistant?

The earnings for medical assistants in the USA can vary based on several factors, including experience level, education and certifications, geographic location, the type of healthcare facility, and the specific responsibilities of the role.

Factors Influencing Salary

Experience: Entry-level medical assistants typically earn less than those with several years of experience.
Education and Certifications: Holding professional certifications, such as the CMA (Certified Medical Assistant) or RMA (Registered Medical Assistant), can often lead to higher earning potential.
Location: Salaries tend to be higher in states and metropolitan areas with a higher cost of living.
Type of Employer: Hospitals, physicians' offices, outpatient clinics, and other healthcare settings may offer different pay scales.
Specialty: While not always a significant factor, some specialized medical assistant roles might command slightly higher pay.
Career Shifts: Some MAs eventually decide to move on to nursing and higher degrees - for example, affordable online FNP programs are popular options to help one become a family nurse practitioner.

Based on data from Salary.com in 2025, the average salary for a certified medical assistant in the United States is $43,211. There is a notable range in reported salaries for this role across different locations. For instance, CMAs in New York, NY, earn an average of $50,471, and those in Seattle, WA, average $47,662, both exceeding the national average. In contrast, CMAs in Montana report a lower average of $40,359, while those in Oregon earn slightly more at $43,903 and in Washington at $46,582.

Interestingly, the average salary for a Lead Medical Assistant in Oregon is significantly higher at $106,605, suggesting a substantial increase in earning potential with leadership responsibilities in that state. Medical Administrative Assistants in Washington have a reported average salary of $48,800, indicating a slightly higher compensation compared to certified clinical medical assistants in the same state. Overall, the data, shown in the graph below, reveals that location and specialization play a crucial role in determining the salary for medical assistants, with leadership positions commanding the highest reported earnings.

While salary is an important consideration, medical assistants should also evaluate the total compensation package and the non-monetary benefits offered by an employer. The earning potential in this field generally reflects the valuable skills and services medical assistants provide to the healthcare system.

How does pursuing additional education in health information management influence career benefits?

Pursuing further education in health information management can create pathways for medical assistants to transition into roles with broader administrative and technological responsibilities. Enhanced knowledge in healthcare informatics and data management can position professionals as key contributors to operational efficiency, potentially leading to improved benefit offerings over time. This advanced education serves as a strategic differentiator during negotiations, supporting requests for increased compensation, more robust retirement plans, and enhanced professional development opportunities. Additionally, acquiring specialized skills through programs like health information management degree online may open doors to leadership roles and better long-term career stability.

How can advanced education impact long-term career benefits for medical assistants?

Pursuing advanced education can open pathways to leadership and administrative roles that extend beyond traditional medical assistant responsibilities. For instance, obtaining an accelerated bachelors degree in healthcare administration equips professionals with strategic management skills and a comprehensive understanding of healthcare systems, which can lead to enhanced negotiation power during benefits discussions. This elevated qualification may result in improved compensation packages, broadened career advancement opportunities, and eligibility for roles that offer performance-based incentives and greater financial security.

Can diversifying your educational background improve your benefits package?

Medical assistants who broaden their educational experience beyond traditional clinical training may access career pathways that yield enhanced benefit structures. Developing competencies in interdisciplinary areas—such as laboratory analysis or biochemistry—can offer strategic advantages in emerging roles within healthcare settings that increasingly emphasize data-driven diagnostics and research integration. For example, pursuing an affordable biochemistry degree online may contribute to a unique skill set, enabling medical assistants to negotiate for enhanced benefits and diversified career trajectories without compromising their core clinical expertise.

What are some certifications and continuing education opportunities for medical assistants?

Certifications and continuing education are valuable for medical assistants to enhance their skills, demonstrate their competence, and advance their careers. Several reputable organizations offer certifications, and ongoing learning is often required to maintain these credentials and stay current in the field.

Common Certifications

Certified Medical Assistant (CMA): Offered by the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA), this is a widely recognized and respected certification. Eligibility typically requires graduation from an accredited medical assisting program.
Registered Medical Assistant (RMA): Provided by the American Medical Technologists (AMT), this is another nationally recognized certification for medical assistants.
National Certified Medical Assistant (NCMA): Offered by the National Center for Competency Testing (NCCT), this certification also validates the knowledge and skills of medical assistants.
Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA): Offered by the National Healthcareer Association (NHA), this certification focuses on clinical skills and knowledge.

Benefits of Certification

Increased Job Opportunities: Many employers prefer or require certified medical assistants.
Higher Earning Potential: Certified individuals may be eligible for higher salaries.
Professional Recognition: Certification demonstrates a commitment to professional standards and competence.
Career Advancement: Certification can open doors to more specialized roles or leadership opportunities.

Continuing Education (CE) Opportunities

Maintaining Certification: Most certifying bodies require medical assistants to complete a certain number of continuing education units (CEUs) or continuing medical education (CME) credits to maintain their certification.
Professional Development: CE opportunities allow medical assistants to stay updated on the latest medical practices, technologies, and regulations.
Variety of Formats: CE can be obtained through workshops, seminars, online courses, conferences, and journal articles.
Employer-Sponsored Training: Many healthcare employers offer or support continuing education for their medical assistants.

Pursuing certifications and actively engaging in continuing education are crucial for medical assistants to remain competitive, provide high-quality patient care, and advance in their profession. These efforts demonstrate a commitment to lifelong learning and professional excellence. Some find that higher degrees in related fields are more fulfilling - for example, affordable online Masters in Healthcare Administration degrees help one get management positions and better salaries.

In 2024, the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) administered 78,681 examinations for the Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA), with a pass rate of 81.38%, resulting in 233,190 currently active CCMA certifications. During the same year, 9,390 examinations were administered for the Certified Medical Administrative Assistant (CMAA), yielding a lower pass rate of 62.68% and leading to 17,616 currently active CMAA certifications. The data, shown in the graphic below, could imply that the relatively lower number of active CMAA certifications compared to CCMA means that obtaining and maintaining this specific certification might not be that straightforward.

What are the 2024 CMA certification pass rates?

Are there significant differences in medical assistant benefits across various states in the USA?

Yes, there can be significant differences in medical assistant benefits across various states in the USA. These variations can arise from state-specific laws, the cost of living, the prevalence of unionization in healthcare, and the overall economic conditions of the region.

State and Local Laws

Mandated Leave: Some states have laws mandating paid sick leave or family leave, which may go beyond federal requirements under the FMLA.
Healthcare Regulations: State regulations can influence the types of insurance plans offered and the coverage they provide.
Minimum Wage Laws: While the federal minimum wage exists, some states have higher minimum wage laws, which can indirectly impact overall compensation and potentially benefits.

Cost of Living

States with a higher cost of living often see employers offering more competitive benefits packages to attract and retain employees. This can include higher contributions to health insurance or more generous retirement plans.

Unionization

In states with a stronger presence of healthcare unions, collective bargaining agreements may lead to more standardized and often more comprehensive benefits for medical assistants working in unionized facilities.

Employer Practices and Competition

The general culture and competitiveness of the job market in a particular state can also influence benefits. Employers in high-demand areas might offer better benefits to attract top talent.

Examples of Potential Differences

Paid Sick Leave: Some states mandate a certain amount of paid sick leave, while others do not.
Health Insurance Mandates: State laws can affect the requirements for health insurance coverage.
Retirement Plan Availability: While not legally mandated at the state level, the prevalence of employer-sponsored retirement plans can vary regionally based on economic factors and employer practices.

Medical assistants considering employment in different states should research the specific legal requirements and common benefit practices in those areas to understand the potential differences in their overall compensation and well-being. These variations highlight the importance of carefully evaluating job offers based on location.

Here's What Graduates Say About Their Medical Assistant Benefits

Becoming a medical assistant opened doors I never thought possible. I enjoy full health benefits, paid time off, and a stable work schedule that lets me balance my career and personal life. Knowing I can grow in this field while making a real difference for patients keeps me motivated every day. Eliana

I chose to become a medical assistant because it offered fast entry into healthcare, but what surprised me was the tuition reimbursement and certification support from my employer. I feel valued, and every shift strengthens my skills and confidence in ways I never expected. Matthew

Working as a medical assistant has given me not just a steady paycheck but also access to retirement plans and ongoing professional development opportunities. Every patient interaction reminds me why I chose a path filled with compassion, growth, and teamwork. Amara

How can medical assistants negotiate a better benefits package?

Medical assistants can optimize their employment offers by approaching benefits negotiation strategically. Start by researching industry benchmarks and local market trends to understand the typical range of benefits available. Utilizing documented performance metrics and professional achievements can support your case for a more comprehensive package. Consider highlighting the value of continuous skill improvement by referencing resources such as accredited online medical assisting programs when discussing enhancements in professional development benefits. Demonstrating informed expectations can lead to improved negotiations without compromising the overall competitiveness of the offer.

Key Findings

Insurance Benefits: Dental insurance is the most prevalent insurance benefit received by full-time Certified Medical Assistants at 83%, followed by paid vacation (81%) and vision insurance (79%). A significant 70% of full-time CMAs receive major medical insurance as part of their benefits package.
Lower Prevalence Insurance (AAMA Data): Disability (62%), sick leave (56%), and accidental death benefits (52%) are less commonly received insurance benefits among full-time CMAs. Basic hospitalization (40%) and discount prescription benefits (37%) are received by a minority of full-time Certified Medical Assistants.
Professional Liability Coverage (AAMA Data): Only 22% of full-time CMAs report receiving professional liability insurance as a benefit.
Top States for Employment: California had the highest employment level for medical assistants in 2024 with 110,280 positions, followed by Texas (66,720) and Florida (55,110) (BLS, 2024).
Median Annual Salary: In 2024, the median annual pay for medical assistants was $44,200, equating to an hourly wage of $21.25 (BLS, 2024).
Projected Job Growth: The job outlook for medical assistants is much faster than average, with a projected growth of 15% between 2023 and 2033, expected to create 118,000 new positions (BLS, 2024).

Other Things You Should Know About Medical Assistant Benefits

What other non-traditional benefits might be offered to medical assistants in the USA?

Beyond the standard benefits, some employers are offering more unique and non-traditional perks to attract and retain medical assistants. These can range from benefits that support work-life balance to those that contribute to personal well-being and financial flexibility. Examples include student loan repayment assistance, which can be a significant draw for recent graduates, and enhanced parental leave policies that go beyond the requirements of the FMLA.

Additionally, some healthcare organizations provide on-site amenities like fitness centers or subsidized cafeterias to support employee health and convenience. Flexible work arrangements, such as compressed workweeks or partial remote work for administrative tasks, may also be offered to improve work-life integration. These non-traditional benefits reflect a growing recognition of the diverse needs and priorities of the modern workforce.

How do disability benefits work for medical assistants who become unable to work?

Disability benefits are designed to provide income replacement for medical assistants who cannot work due to illness or injury. Short-term disability typically kicks in after a waiting period and provides a portion of the employee's regular salary for a limited duration, often a few months. Long-term disability insurance, on the other hand, provides benefits that can last for a more extended period, potentially years or even until retirement age, depending on the policy and the nature of the disability.

To receive disability benefits, medical assistants usually need to file a claim with the insurance provider, which often requires medical documentation to support their inability to work. The specific amount of benefit paid is typically a percentage of the pre-disability earnings, as outlined in the insurance policy. It's important for medical assistants to understand the terms and conditions of their disability coverage, including waiting periods, benefit duration, and the definition of disability used by the insurer.

What professional development resources are commonly provided to medical assistants?

Medical assistants have access to a variety of resources to support their professional growth and ongoing learning. Many employers offer in-house training programs on new procedures, technologies, or regulatory updates. Additionally, they might provide access to online learning platforms or tuition reimbursement for relevant courses or certifications.

Professional organizations, such as the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA) and the American Medical Technologists (AMT), offer a wealth of resources, including continuing education modules, webinars, and conferences. These organizations also provide opportunities for networking and staying informed about the latest trends and best practices in the field. Furthermore, medical journals and industry publications serve as valuable resources for staying current with medical advancements and guidelines.

References:

American Association of Medical Assistants. (2024). 2024 CMA (AAMA)® compensation and benefits report. American Association of Medical Assistants.
National Healthcareer Association. (2025, January 8). Pass rates for NHA examinations administered in 2024. National Healthcareer Association.
Salary.com. (2025). Lead Medical Assistant Salary in Oregon. Salary.com.
Salary.com. (2025). Medical Administrative Assistant Salary in Washington (April, 2025). Salary.com.
Salary.com. (2025). Medical Assistant - Certified Salary in Montana (April, 2025). Salary.com
Salary.com. (2025). Medical Assistant - Certified Salary in New York,NY (April, 2025). Salary.com.
Salary.com. (2025). Medical Assistant - Certified Salary in Oregon (April, 2025). Salary.com.
Salary.com. (2025). Medical Assistant - Certified Salary in Seattle,WA (April, 2025). Salary.com.
Salary.com. (2025). Medical Assistant - Certified Salary in the United States. Salary.com.
Salary.com. (2025). Medical Assistant - Certified Salary in Washington (April, 2025). Salary.com.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2024, April 24). Occupational employment and wages, May 2023: 31-9092 medical assistants. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.