What Does a Clinical Medical Assistant Do: Duties & Responsibilities in 2025

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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A clinical medical assistant (CMA) plays a critical role in healthcare, offering essential support to physicians, nurses, and other medical professionals. Their responsibilities bridge both clinical and administrative tasks, ranging from assisting with patient exams to managing medical records. Despite the growing demand for CMAs, many people are unclear about the specific duties of this role and how it differs from other healthcare positions. This lack of clarity can make it difficult for aspiring medical assistants to understand the career path they are considering fully. 

This guide will provide a detailed breakdown of the duties and responsibilities of a clinical medical assistant, offering clarity on what the job entails day-to-day. Whether you are considering a career as a CMA or looking to better understand the role within your own healthcare setting, this comprehensive overview will help address common questions and give you a clear sense of what to expect.

Key things you should know about being a clinical medical assistant

• Clinical medical assistants perform both clinical and administrative tasks, such as assisting with exams and managing patient records.
• The job outlook for clinical medical assistants is strong, with employment expected to grow by 15% over the next decade, leading to numerous job openings each year.
• Clinical medical assistants can pursue additional certifications or specialized training to advance their careers.

Table of Contents

1. What are the main duties of a clinical medical assistant?
2. How does a clinical medical assistant differ from an administrative medical assistant?
3. What procedures can a clinical medical assistant perform?
4. How much do clinical medical assistants earn in the U.S.?
5. Where do clinical medical assistants typically work?
6. What education is required to become a clinical medical assistant?
7. How long does it take to complete clinical medical assistant training?
8. Should clinical medical assistants pursue a medical billing online degree?
9. Can an advanced degree enhance a clinical medical assistant’s career?
10. What certifications are available for clinical medical assistants?
11. How can clinical medical assistants diversify their skillset for broader career opportunities?
12. What can a clinical medical assistant do to advance their career?
13. What is the job outlook for clinical medical assistants?
14. How can clinical medical assistants secure roles with higher compensation?
15. Other things you should know about being a clinical medical assistant

What are the main duties of a clinical medical assistant?

The main duties of a clinical medical assistant (CMA) vary depending on the healthcare setting, but they generally include a combination of clinical and administrative tasks. Here are the primary responsibilities:

• Patient Preparation: CMAs prepare patients for exams by taking vital signs such as blood pressure, temperature, and heart rate. They also update medical histories, ensuring that any changes in the patient's condition or medications are accurately documented, and work to ensure patients feel comfortable and informed about the upcoming procedures.
• Assisting with Examinations and Procedures: During patient exams, CMAs assist physicians by handing them necessary instruments, preparing lab specimens, and documenting findings in the patient's medical record. In some settings, they may also be responsible for administering injections, drawing blood, or assisting with minor surgical procedures. 
• Medical Equipment Maintenance: Clinical medical assistants ensure that medical instruments and equipment are properly sterilized, cleaned, and maintained in accordance with healthcare safety protocols. They are responsible for making sure all equipment is in proper working condition and ready for use in patient care.
• Administrative Duties: CMAs often handle a variety of administrative tasks, such as scheduling patient appointments, managing medical records, and updating patient information in electronic health systems. Additionally, they are responsible for processing insurance forms, billing, and sometimes communicating with patients about appointments or billing inquiries. How much does a medical administrative assistant make? Check out our separate article on this topic.
• Patient Education: CMAs may provide patients with instructions on how to manage their condition after an exam or procedure, such as post-care instructions or information about prescribed medications. They also help educate patients on lifestyle changes or preventative care as directed by the physician to support long-term health.

How does a clinical medical assistant differ from an administrative medical assistant?

What is a medical administrative assistant and what makes it different from a clinical medical assistant? A clinical medical assistant and an administrative medical assistant both play important roles in the healthcare system, but their responsibilities differ in focus and scope.

• Clinical Medical Assistants (CMAs) are primarily involved in patient care and clinical tasks. They assist physicians during patient exams, take vital signs, prepare specimens, administer injections, draw blood, and ensure medical equipment is sterilized and ready for use. Their work is hands-on and often involves direct interaction with patients in a clinical environment.
• Administrative Medical Assistants (AMAs), on the other hand, handle non-clinical tasks that support the healthcare office's operation. They manage patient scheduling, maintain medical records, process insurance claims, handle billing and coding, and sometimes answer phone calls or manage front desk duties. Their work is centered around the office's administrative functions rather than direct patient care.

In short, clinical medical assistants focus on clinical and patient-facing tasks, while administrative medical assistants concentrate on the operational and office management aspects of healthcare.

Other differences you may want to explore include that of a medical assistant vs medical lab technician. Check out our separate article to understand more.

What procedures can a clinical medical assistant perform?

CMAs are trained to perform a variety of procedures, though the exact tasks they can perform may vary depending on their training, certification, and the specific healthcare setting. Here are some of the common procedures CMAs are qualified to perform:

• Taking Vital Signs: CMAs are responsible for measuring and recording vital signs, such as blood pressure, heart rate, temperature, and respiratory rate, which are crucial for assessing a patient’s overall health. These foundational clinical skills are also highly valuable for those considering advancement through a fast track medical LPN program.
• Administering Injections: CMAs can administer vaccines and other types of injections, such as flu shots or allergy treatments, under the supervision of a physician or healthcare provider.
• Drawing Blood: CMAs are trained to collect blood samples through venipuncture or capillary methods for laboratory testing, which helps diagnose medical conditions or monitor treatment progress. For more information on the differences between a medical assistant vs phlebotomist, check out our previous article.
• Assisting with Minor Surgical Procedures: CMAs may assist physicians during minor surgical procedures by preparing instruments, sterile fields, and assisting with patient positioning. They may also be involved in post-procedure care.
• Preparing and Handling Specimens: CMAs often collect and prepare patient specimens, such as urine or tissue samples, for laboratory analysis to help diagnose or monitor various medical conditions.
• Sterilizing and Maintaining Equipment: CMAs ensure that medical instruments and equipment are properly sterilized and maintained according to healthcare regulations to prevent infections and ensure patient safety.
• Performing EKGs (Electrocardiograms): CMAs can prepare patients for electrocardiograms, which involve attaching electrodes to the patient's body to measure the electrical activity of the heart, helping diagnose heart conditions. This hands-on experience with diagnostic equipment can also be a stepping stone for those interested in enrolling in an  online ultrasound tech school.

How much do clinical medical assistants earn in the U.S.?

Clinical medical assistants in the U.S. earn an average annual salary of $42,000, according to recent data that combines both administrative and clinical roles. However, earnings can vary significantly based on several factors, including location, experience, certifications, and the type of healthcare facility. For example, those working in hospitals or specialized clinics may earn more than those in smaller physician offices. Additionally, certified medical assistants often command higher salaries than their non-certified peers due to their verified skill sets and formal training.

The lowest 10 percent of medical assistants earn less than $33,500 per year, typically those who are new to the field or working in lower-paying regions. On the other hand, the top 10 percent make more than $56,480, often as a result of several years of experience, additional certifications, or working in high-demand metro areas. Geographic location plays a major role—states like California and Washington tend to offer higher wages due to the cost of living and demand for healthcare workers. Specializations and cross-training in both clinical and administrative duties can also boost earning potential over time.

Where do clinical medical assistants typically work?

CMAs work in a variety of healthcare settings, each offering unique responsibilities, work environments, and pay scales. Where you choose to work can have a significant impact on your daily routine and earning potential. Below are the top industries that employ clinical medical assistants, along with their average salaries:

• Outpatient Care Centers ($46,090): Clinical medical assistants in outpatient care centers typically support specialty practices like urgent care, surgical centers, or rehabilitation clinics. These roles often involve fast-paced, high-volume patient interactions and offer some of the highest average salaries in the field.
• Hospitals – State, Local, and Private ($44,350): Working in a hospital setting allows CMAs to be part of a larger healthcare team and rotate between departments. These positions may include night or weekend shifts, but they offer strong clinical exposure and competitive compensation.
• Offices of Physicians ($40,670): This is one of the most common workplaces for CMAs. Responsibilities often include preparing patients for exams, recording vital signs, and assisting with minor procedures in a more predictable, weekday schedule.
• Offices of Other Health Practitioners ($36,480): CMAs in these settings support specialists like chiropractors, podiatrists, or optometrists. While the salary may be lower, these roles often provide regular hours and a focused scope of practice, making them ideal for those who may also be pursuing additional training, such as a 4 week online course for medical coding and billing.

Understanding where clinical medical assistants typically work and how those environments impact pay can help you choose the path that best aligns with your goals, lifestyle, and interests in the healthcare field. The chart below highlights how average salaries vary across different healthcare settings, offering a clear comparison to help guide your career decisions.

What education is required to become a clinical medical assistant?

To become a clinical medical assistant (CMA), you typically need a high school diploma or GED as the foundational education, but further training and certification are required to pursue the role professionally. Here's the step-by-step education path:

• Postsecondary Education (6 months to 2 years): Most clinical medical assistants complete a certificate or diploma program from an accredited vocational school, community college, or online program. These programs usually last from 6 months to a year for a certificate, or up to 2 years for an associate degree, though some students opt for an accelerated medical assistant degree online 6 weeks program to enter the field more quickly. The coursework includes subjects like medical terminology, anatomy and physiology, patient care, laboratory procedures, pharmacology, and medical office management.
• Certification: While certification is not always required to work as a CMA, it is highly recommended and often preferred by employers. To become a Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA), you must pass an exam administered by certifying bodies such as the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) or the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA). Certification demonstrates your competency in both clinical and administrative duties and can improve job prospects and earning potential.

How long does it take to complete clinical medical assistant training?

Completing clinical medical assistant (CMA) training typically takes at least 6 months, depending on the type of program and whether you attend full-time or part-time. Most certificate or diploma programs offered by community colleges, vocational schools, or online institutions range from 6 to 12 months. These programs are designed to prepare students with the essential clinical skills, such as taking vital signs, assisting with exams, and administering injections, as well as foundational knowledge in medical terminology, anatomy, and healthcare ethics.

Some students may opt for more comprehensive associate degree programs, which can take up to 2 years to complete. While this path takes longer, it may provide a broader education and open doors to advanced roles or further education down the line. Additionally, externships are often included near the end of training to give students hands-on experience in a real clinical setting, which can slightly extend the total time required to finish the program.

Should clinical medical assistants pursue a medical billing online degree?

Supplemental education in medical billing and coding can broaden the clinical medical assistant’s expertise while strengthening administrative capabilities. This additional skill set can streamline billing processes, enhance regulatory compliance, and improve overall practice efficiency. A dedicated medical billing online degree provides targeted training that complements clinical competencies, optimizes workflow, and offers a competitive advantage in evolving healthcare environments.

Can an advanced degree enhance a clinical medical assistant’s career?

Pursuing an advanced degree can equip clinical medical assistants with skills that extend beyond clinical expertise, opening opportunities in healthcare management and interdisciplinary roles. Further education develops strategic thinking, leadership, and operational skills that complement hands-on experience. For professionals considering a broader perspective in management, specialized advanced programs—such as those found in sports management masters online—may provide valuable insights into administrative strategies and innovative problem-solving approaches.

What certifications are available for clinical medical assistants?

There are several certifications available for CMAs, each of which can enhance career prospects and demonstrate a higher level of expertise. For those considering their options, understanding the medical assistant certification online cost can help in choosing the right program based on budget and career goals. Here are some of the most recognized certifications:

• Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) by NHA: This certification is offered by the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) and is widely recognized for CMAs. To earn this credential, candidates must pass an exam covering clinical skills, patient care, and anatomy, which can improve job prospects and earning potential.
• Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) by AAMA: The American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA) offers this respected certification. It requires passing an exam focused on clinical, administrative, and medical assistant duties, demonstrating expertise and professionalism in the field.
• Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT) by NHA: Offered by the National Healthcareer Association (NHA), this certification is for CMAs who specialize in phlebotomy. It focuses on drawing blood and other laboratory tasks, helping CMAs stand out in healthcare settings that require these skills.
• Certified EKG Technician (CET) by NHA: This certification, available through the NHA, is for CMAs who perform electrocardiograms (EKGs). It involves learning how to operate EKG equipment and interpret results, particularly useful in cardiology clinics and hospitals.
• Certified Medical Administrative Assistant (CMAA) by NHA: Geared towards CMAs focusing on administrative tasks, the NHA’s CMAA certification validates skills in managing patient records, scheduling appointments, and processing insurance forms, enhancing career opportunities in medical offices.
• Certified Patient Care Technician (CPCT) by NHA: The NHA’s CPCT certification is designed for CMAs who want to expand their clinical responsibilities. It includes a range of patient care tasks like monitoring vital signs and assisting with medical procedures, ideal for those working in hospitals or long-term care facilities.

How can clinical medical assistants diversify their skillset for broader career opportunities?

Clinical medical assistants can enhance their career trajectory by integrating interdisciplinary skills that intersect clinical proficiency with emerging healthcare trends. Proficiency in digital health technologies, telemedicine protocols, and patient data analytics can broaden their practical expertise beyond traditional duties. In addition, acquiring knowledge in areas such as healthcare compliance and quality improvement methodologies supports adaptability to evolving clinical environments and administrative demands. For those with a strong science background, exploring opportunities in complementary fields may lead to high paying jobs with biology degree. This strategic diversification enriches their professional profile and opens pathways to roles that require a hybrid of technical, clinical, and administrative competencies.

What can a clinical medical assistant do to advance their career?

To advance their career, CMAs can pursue several strategies that build on their existing skills, expand their knowledge, and position them for higher-level roles. Here are some key steps:

• Pursue Additional Certifications: Obtaining specialized certifications such as Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT), Certified EKG Technician (CET), or Certified Medical Administrative Assistant (CMAA) can help CMAs stand out in the job market and qualify for more specialized roles in areas like phlebotomy, cardiology, or office management. Specialized certifications increase earning potential and job opportunities.
• Gain Experience in Specialized Areas: By gaining experience in specific medical fields such as pediatrics, cardiology, or orthopedics, CMAs can position themselves as experts in those areas. These specialties often come with higher pay and greater job stability. These specialties often come with higher pay and greater job stability, and can also provide a strong foundation for transitioning into accelerated sonography programs for further career advancement.
• Pursue an Associate's or Bachelor's Degree: Some CMAs choose to further their education by pursuing an Associate's Degree in Medical Assisting or a Bachelor’s Degree in Health Administration. This additional education can open doors to supervisory or managerial roles, as well as positions that require a broader understanding of healthcare management.
• Seek Leadership or Management Roles: CMAs with experience and strong organizational skills can move into leadership roles such as Medical Office Manager or Clinical Supervisor. These positions typically come with greater responsibilities and higher salaries, and they often require both clinical and administrative expertise.
• Stay Current with Continuing Education: Healthcare is an ever-evolving field, and continuing education is essential for staying up-to-date with the latest medical technologies, procedures, and regulations. Many organizations offer workshops, webinars, and courses to help CMAs advance their knowledge and skills.

What is the job outlook for clinical medical assistants?

The job outlook for clinical medical assistants is highly positive, reflecting strong demand across the healthcare industry. In 2023, there were approximately 783,900 medical assistants employed in the United States. That number is projected to grow to 901,900 by 2033, representing a 15% increase in employment over the decade, much faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is largely driven by an aging population, expanding access to healthcare services, and the need for support staff in both administrative and clinical roles.

Each year, an estimated 119,800 job openings are expected for medical assistants, including both administrative and clinical positions. These openings result from a combination of new job growth and the need to replace workers who retire or transition into other careers. With such strong employment prospects, becoming a clinical medical assistant offers solid job security and a clear path into the healthcare field. The chart below illustrates this projected growth, helping visualize the rising demand and future opportunities in this profession.

How can clinical medical assistants secure roles with higher compensation?

Clinical medical assistants can strategically enhance their career potential by focusing on advanced skill development, targeted certifications, and building robust professional networks. Embracing emerging medical technologies and specialty training can provide a competitive edge, while engaging in mentorship and continual learning supports informed career decision-making and effective salary negotiations. Additionally, diversifying expertise by cross-training in administrative or technical competencies can open access to roles that offer enhanced remuneration, including opportunities within the highest paying jobs in the medical field.

Here’s what graduates have to say about their medical assistant degrees

Becoming a clinical medical assistant has been a rewarding journey that allowed me to combine my love for patient care with practical, hands-on work. Every day, I feel like I'm making a difference in people's lives, from taking vital signs to assisting in procedures. It’s a career that’s both fulfilling and offers great job stability. — Ramona

After completing my CMA certification, I quickly found a job in an outpatient clinic where I assist doctors and work closely with patients. The ability to grow in my role through certifications and continued education has kept the work exciting, and the salary has improved significantly. It’s a career path that has truly opened many doors for me. — Carlos

I was unsure about my career direction, but clinical medical assisting gave me the flexibility to work in various medical settings, from hospitals to private practices. The opportunity to build strong relationships with patients and healthcare teams has been incredibly rewarding, and the job outlook is better than I ever expected. — Selena

Key Findings

• Clinical medical assistants can work in various healthcare environments, including outpatient care centers, hospitals, and physicians' offices, each offering unique experiences and opportunities.
• Employment for medical assistants is projected to grow by 15% from 2023 to 2033, much faster than the average for all occupations.
• Clinical medical assistant training typically takes at least six months to complete, making it one of the fastest pathways into the healthcare field.
• The median annual wage for medical assistants was $42,000 in May 2023, with the top 10% earning more than $56,480.
• With additional certifications and experience, clinical medical assistants can pursue specialized roles or leadership positions, enhancing their career prospects and earning potential.

Other things you should know about being a clinical medical assistant

How often do clinical medical assistant certifications need to be renewed?

Clinical medical assistant certifications, such as those offered by the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA) or the National Healthcareer Association (NHA), typically require renewal every five years. To maintain certification, CMAs must complete continuing education credits and sometimes pass a recertification exam. These requirements ensure that CMAs stay current with medical advances, procedures, and regulatory changes, which is crucial for providing quality care in a dynamic healthcare environment.

Can clinical medical assistants work in specialty practices?

Yes, clinical medical assistants (CMAs) can work in specialty practices such as pediatrics, cardiology, dermatology, and orthopedics. In these settings, CMAs may assist with specialized tasks related to the practice area, such as preparing patients for diagnostic tests, assisting with specialized procedures, or handling specific equipment. Specialty practices often value CMAs who have extra training or certifications in the specific area, which can enhance job opportunities and offer a more focused career path.

Can a CMA become a nurse or physician assistant?

While a clinical medical assistant (CMA) cannot directly become a nurse or physician assistant, the experience and healthcare knowledge gained as a CMA can provide a solid foundation for pursuing further education in nursing or physician assistant (PA) programs. Becoming a registered nurse (RN) or a physician assistant typically requires additional education, including earning a nursing degree or completing a PA program, along with passing licensing exams. However, many CMAs choose these paths as a natural next step in advancing their careers in healthcare.

Do clinical medical assistants get benefits?

Yes, clinical medical assistants (CMAs) typically receive benefits when employed full-time in healthcare settings, such as hospitals, outpatient care centers, or physician’s offices. Common benefits include health insurance, paid time off (PTO), retirement plans, and sometimes tuition reimbursement for further education or certification. The exact benefits can vary depending on the employer, location, and employment contract, but many healthcare employers offer comprehensive packages to attract and retain skilled CMAs.

References:

• Indeed Editorial Team. (2025). FAQ: How Long Does It Take To Become a Medical Assistant? https://www.indeed.com
• U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2024). OOH: Medical Assistants. https://www.bls.gov