Research.com is an editorially independent organization with a carefully engineered commission system that’s both transparent and fair. Our primary source of income stems from collaborating with affiliates who compensate us for advertising their services on our site, and we earn a referral fee when prospective clients decided to use those services. We ensure that no affiliates can influence our content or school rankings with their compensations. We also work together with Google AdSense which provides us with a base of revenue that runs independently from our affiliate partnerships. It’s important to us that you understand which content is sponsored and which isn’t, so we’ve implemented clear advertising disclosures throughout our site. Our intention is to make sure you never feel misled, and always know exactly what you’re viewing on our platform. We also maintain a steadfast editorial independence despite operating as a for-profit website. Our core objective is to provide accurate, unbiased, and comprehensive guides and resources to assist our readers in making informed decisions.
Best Medical Assistant Schools & Programs in Hawaii – How to Become a Medical Assistant in Hawaii for 2025
In 2018, many medical assistant schools in Hawaii closed their doors due to financial difficulties and loss of accreditation, creating an initial shortage of around 200 medical assistants (Kabir, 2023). To address this, local institutions have made medical assistant programs more accessible by reducing tuition costs and relaxing prerequisites.
For those considering a career in medical assisting, this article covers the local job outlook and the process and requirements to become a medical assistant. Our team has also listed medical assistant schools in Hawaii offering top-rated training programs and online healthcare degrees.
Best Medical Assistant Schools in Hawaii Table of Contents
Hawaii’s workforce of medical assistants is projected to experience significant growth in the coming years. This is due to various factors, including the increasing demand for healthcare services and the aging population. With more medical assistants on staff, local healthcare facilities can extend their services and accommodate more patients.
In 2020, there were only 4,230 medical assistants to serve the Hawaiian population of 1,455,271 (Department of Business, Economic Development & Tourism, 2023; Hawaii Census Data, 2020). The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects that this number will increase by 22% through 2030, much faster than the national average. This growth is expected to generate 640 job openings each year over the decade (Projections Central, n.d.).
Projected Job Growth (2020-2030)
Average Annual Job Openings
Hawaii
22%
640
Nationwide
18.4%
104,400
The average medical assistant in Hawaii salary is $43,750, approximately 14% higher than the national average (O*NET, n.d.). Medical assistants are not the highest-paid allied health professionals in Hawaii, considering the average in-state medical coder salary is $49,630. However, BLS data suggests that most employers on the island offer above-average pay. Notably, the Hawaii/Kauai nonmetropolitan area offers medical assistants an average of $45,220—the highest salary in the State and the fifth-highest salary among nonmetropolitan areas in the nation (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, n.d.).
What are the steps to becoming a Medical Assistant in Hawaii?
Earn a High School Diploma or Equivalent
In some cases, a high school diploma or equivalent credential will be enough to qualify you for an entry-level medical assistant job in Hawaii. However, a professional medical assistant credential can make you more competitive and desirable to employers. It is also increasingly becoming a requirement for employment at in-state facilities.
Attend Medical Assistant Schools in Hawaii
To qualify for certification as a medical assistant, you must complete a training program from reputable medical assistant schools in Hawaii. Accredited by either the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) or Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES), these programs typically cover basic medical and healthcare admin training, taught over 720 hours of theoretical instruction and 160 hours of clinical experience.
Get Certified as a Medical Assistant
Earning a professional certificate can help demonstrate your grasp of the disciplines and processes essential to working as a medical assistant. It can also help prepare you for advanced education at medical assistant schools in Hawaii and leadership roles in healthcare. There are two nationally recognized credentials available for allied health professionals in this role: Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) and Registered Medical Assistant (RMA).
Certified Medical Assistant (CMA)
The Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) exam is a comprehensive test of the knowledge and skills required of medical assistants offered by the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA). The exam costs $250.
To qualify for the CMA exam, you must complete a two-semester postsecondary medical assisting program accredited by CAAHEP or ABHES. Your program must also be approved by an agency recognized by the United States Department of Education (USDE) or the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA). After completing your program, you must gain post-program experience, either through a 160-hour practicum or 1,000 hours of medical assisting work experience.
Once you have met all of the eligibility requirements, you can apply to take the CMA certification exam. Those who pass receive the Certified Medical Assistant credential. To maintain certified status, CMAs must apply for renewal every five years. This entails completing continuing education requirements at medical assistant schools in Hawaii or re-taking the CMA exam (American Association of Medical Assistants, n.d.).
Registered Medical Assistant (RMA)
The American Medical Technologists (AMT) offers the Registered Medical Assistant (RMA) certification exam for aspiring medical assistants. It will cost you $135 to sit for the exam. To gain eligibility for this credential, you must meet at least one of the requirements listed below:
Education. Complete a training program from medical assistant schools in Hawaii accredited by a regional or national agency recognized by the USDE, CHEA, or the AMT Board of Directors.
Work Experience. Work full-time as a medical assistant for at least three of the past seven years. Alternatively, you may have experience from a qualified work-study program, such as an apprenticeship program registered with the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) or a federally recognized Workforce Development/Employer program from the State Apprenticeship Agency (SAA).
Program Instructor. Be a program instructor at medical assistant schools in Hawaii for at least five of the past seven years. If you have less than five years of teaching experience, you must have one year of teaching experience as well as at least three years of experience as a practicing medical assistant.
Military. Complete a formal medical services training program offered by the United States Armed Forces.
Registered Medical Assistants must renew their certification every three years. To qualify for renewal, RMAs must submit documentation of continuing education equivalent to 30 CCP points every three years and pay a $75 annual fee (American Medical Technologists, n.d.).
What are the common challenges faced by medical assistants in Hawaii?
Medical assistants in Hawaii encounter several unique challenges that can impact their work experience. These challenges include:
Geographic Isolation: Hawaii's location can limit access to advanced medical resources and specialists, requiring medical assistants to adapt to a more generalist role in healthcare settings.
Cultural Sensitivity: With a diverse population, medical assistants must navigate cultural differences and provide care that respects various traditions and practices, which can require additional training and understanding.
Resource Limitations: Smaller healthcare facilities may face budget constraints, leading to limited staffing and resources, which can increase the workload for medical assistants and impact patient care quality.
High Cost of Living: Hawaii has a higher cost of living compared to many mainland states, which can affect salary competitiveness and the overall financial well-being of medical assistants.
Workforce Shortages: Although job growth is strong, there may be periods of staffing shortages, leading to increased pressure and responsibilities for existing medical assistants.
Adapting to Technology: As healthcare technology evolves, medical assistants must continuously update their skills and knowledge to remain effective in their roles, which can be a challenge for those with limited access to ongoing training.
Medical Assistant Program Length in Hawaii
After earning a secondary education diploma, you may pursue entry-level roles as a medical assistant. Completing high school typically takes four years, but obtaining a GED may take as few as three months. Once you have received your diploma, you may enroll in a medical assistant program, which can last one to two years on average. After that, you may need to spend another year preparing for and taking your chosen certification exam.
Tuition and Costs of Medical Assistant Programs in Hawaii
Based on our team’s analysis of medical assistant schools in Hawaii, cost of attendance is relatively affordable across the board. Our choices for the best medical assistant schools in Hawaii, the majority of which are community colleges, price their training programs between $131 and $248 per credit. The Hawaii Pacific Health program is an exception, as it is tuition-free.
When estimating the cost of your training program, it is also important to consider the non-academic costs you may incur. The prices quoted above do not account for medical assistant schools in Hawaii requirements such as learning materials, transportation, and housing.
Hawaii Schools Offering Medical Assistant Programs for 2025
To help in your search for the best medical assistant program, our expert team at Research.com has curated a list of training and degree programs that qualify for certification. As of 2023, there are only three accredited medical assistant schools, including free medical assistant schools, in Hawaii.
Kapi’olani Community College
The Kapi’olani Community College Medical Assisting program offers a variety of options for students interested in a career in medical assisting. The Associate in Science degree in Medical Assisting prepares students for entry-level positions as medical assistants, while the Certificate of Achievement in Medical Assisting provides a shorter path to employment for students with some experience in the healthcare field. On the other hand, the 20-credit Certificate of Competence in Medical Assisting Healthcare Practice Management prepares experienced medical assistants for advanced positions in medical practice management and medical coding.
Program Length: 48 weeks (certificate), Two years (Associate)
Tracks/concentrations: Medical Assisting, Medical Assisting Healthcare Practice Management
Estimated Cost per Credit: $131-$248
Required Credits to Graduate: 20-33 (Certificate), 72-73 (Associate)
Accreditation: Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP)
Kaua’i Community College
The Medical Assisting Program at Kaua'i Community College prepares students for rewarding careers as medical assistants. The curriculum covers all aspects of medical assisting, from patient care to routine laboratory to diagnostic tests. It also covers administrative procedures and business procedures. Graduates of this program earn a Certificate of Achievement (CA) and are eligible to take the national certification exam to become a certified medical assistant (CMA). Many employers in Hawaii require medical assistants to be certified.
Program Length: 45 weeks
Tracks/concentrations: Medical Assisting
Estimated Cost per Credit: $131-$248
Required Credits to Graduate: 43-44
Accreditation: Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP)
Hawaii Pacific Health
The Hawaii Pacific Health Medical Assistant Program, established in 2018 to address the statewide shortage of medical assistants, helps high school seniors transition into these roles. Students gain foundational knowledge in anatomy and physiology, medical terminology, and administrative and clinical medical assisting through classroom instruction and clinical externships. Upon graduation, students receive primary consideration for employment at Hawaii Pacific Health facilities, comprising over 70 locations nationwide.
Program Length: One year
Tracks/concentrations: Medical Assisting
Estimated Cost per Credit: $0
Required Credits to Graduate: 33
Accreditation: Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES)
What To Look For in a Medical Assistant Program in Hawaii
When choosing between medical assistant schools in Hawaii, consider factors like accreditation and their track record of graduating certified medical assistants. Hawaii-based programs accredited by CAAHEP or ABHES offer a comprehensive curriculum and have a proven track record of graduating certified medical assistants. In recent years, the best medical assistant programs in the state achieved certification exam pass rates between 80% and 100%.
It is also crucial to consider the length and delivery method of each program. Some medical assistant schools in Hawaii are online, allowing students with existing commitments or full-time jobs to complete their training over an extended period. Other programs, delivered online or via hybrid instruction, will allow you to earn your credential in less than a year.
Pathways to Transition from Medical Assisting to Nursing in Hawaii
Medical assistants in Hawaii who aspire to advance their careers often explore transitioning to nursing roles, leveraging the foundational skills and clinical experience gained in their current positions. This career progression not only offers increased earning potential but also the opportunity to take on greater responsibilities in patient care.
To make this transition, medical assistants can consider pursuing a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) or Registered Nurse (RN) qualification. Many accredited nursing programs in Hawaii recognize prior healthcare experience, allowing medical assistants to fulfill prerequisite requirements more efficiently. Accelerated nursing programs or bridge programs provide pathways tailored to working professionals, enabling them to upskill while continuing their employment.
Additionally, gaining certification in specialized areas, such as phlebotomy or patient care, can strengthen an application for nursing school and reduce the learning curve during training. Financial aid opportunities, scholarships, and tuition reimbursement programs offered by employers can further support this transition.
If you're ready to take the next step in your healthcare journey, learning about how to become a nurse in Hawaii is a crucial starting point. This guide from Research.com outlines the educational requirements, licensing process, and career opportunities available for aspiring nurses in the state.
How Can Expanding Into Nutrition Benefit Your Healthcare Career in Hawaii?
Medical assistants interested in enhancing their role in Hawaii’s healthcare landscape may consider acquiring nutritional expertise. Integrating knowledge of nutrition can improve patient care through a more comprehensive approach to health and wellness, while also broadening professional opportunities. With an increasing emphasis on preventive care, obtaining targeted education and certifications in nutrition positions healthcare professionals to collaborate effectively in multidisciplinary teams. For those looking to diversify their expertise, explore how to become a nutritionist in Hawaii as a potential career pathway.
How can medical assistants transition to nurse practitioner roles in Hawaii?
The transition from medical assisting to the nurse practitioner role involves strategic advancement in education and clinical practice. Medical assistants should leverage their hands-on patient care experience by enrolling in accredited Registered Nurse programs, followed by specialized nurse practitioner training. This progression typically requires meeting rigorous admission criteria, completing advanced coursework, and accumulating additional clinical hours. Candidates can enhance their profile by opting for accelerated pathways designed for experienced healthcare professionals and by obtaining relevant certifications. For additional guidance on the process, explore how to become a nurse practitioner in Hawaii.
How Can Supplementary Certification in Billing and Coding Boost My Career Prospects?
Medical assistants seeking to diversify their skill set and increase job flexibility may benefit from certification in billing and coding. Expanding into these areas equips professionals with complementary financial and administrative expertise, which is valuable for streamlining healthcare operations and improving revenue management. This additional competency can lead to roles that blend clinical support with administrative functions, potentially resulting in higher compensation and broader responsibilities. Prospective candidates can explore options for online medical billing and coding with financial aid to gain this certification while managing educational costs effectively.
How Can I Transition into a Pharmacy Career in Hawaii?
Transitioning from a medical assistant role to a pharmacy career in Hawaii involves meeting additional educational and licensing requirements. Prospective pharmacists often begin by enrolling in accredited pharmacy technician or pre-pharmacy programs before advancing to a Doctor of Pharmacy degree. This pathway requires not only rigorous academic preparation but also hands-on clinical experience and successful completion of state-specific licensing examinations. For comprehensive guidance on these requirements and an in-depth look at the process, see how to become a licensed pharmacist in Hawaii.
How Can I Afford My Medical Assistant Education in Hawaii?
For many aspiring medical assistants in Hawaii, managing the cost of education is a pivotal concern. Explore targeted scholarships, grants, and state-funded financial aid options that are specifically designed to support healthcare training. Investigate both federal aid programs and institution-specific payment plans which may include flexible financing, employer-sponsored tuition reimbursement, or work-study opportunities. For those looking to supplement clinical training with administrative expertise, consider bolstering your qualifications through programs like healthcare administration degree online to diversify your skills while optimizing educational investments.
How Can Dual Certification in Billing & Coding Enhance My Medical Assisting Career in Hawaii?
Dual certification offers a strategic advantage by expanding your clinical expertise into administrative and financial domains. Earning additional credentials in billing and coding enables medical assistants to manage revenue cycles and navigate complex insurance regulations, thereby increasing role flexibility and job security. This pathway leverages existing patient care skills while introducing specialized training in coding standards and billing procedures. For professionals seeking to broaden their career prospects and adapt to evolving healthcare demands, consider exploring how to become a medical biller and coder in Hawaii to gain targeted insights and certifications.
How Will Emerging Technologies Impact the Medical Assistant Role in Hawaii?
Medical assistants in Hawaii are increasingly expected to navigate digital tools and evolving healthcare software, which can enhance patient care and streamline administrative processes. Integrating telehealth platforms and advanced electronic health records requires ongoing technical proficiency and adaptability to new healthcare technologies. Professionals who invest in digital upskilling can benefit from improved workflow efficiencies and expanded career pathways. For those interested in leveraging clinical expertise alongside technological proficiency to broaden their career options, learn how to become an LPN fast in Hawaii.
How can I transition from Medical Assisting to an LVN role in Hawaii?
Medical assistants seeking to elevate their careers can explore the pathway to becoming an LVN, leveraging their clinical experience to meet the additional educational and licensing requirements. Transition programs tailored for candidates with a medical assisting background often offer accelerated coursework and bridge training that acknowledges prior hands-on experience in patient care. Prospective LVN candidates should verify program accreditation, curriculum specifics, and state licensing prerequisites to ensure a smooth transition. For a detailed overview of the process, including eligibility criteria and program expectations, refer to our post detailing how to become a LVN nurse in Hawaii.
What are the regulatory requirements for transitioning from medical assisting to nursing in Hawaii?
Medical assistants contemplating a move to nursing roles must navigate stringent state regulations and additional educational criteria. Adhering to these requirements involves completing specialized coursework, accumulating requisite clinical hours, and passing licensure examinations. For instance, understanding the state's specific nursing license requirements in Hawaii is crucial, as these guidelines clarify eligibility, exam content, and required continuing education. Keeping abreast of regulatory changes supports a smoother transition, ensuring that professionals meet all compliance standards to advance their healthcare careers in Hawaii.
How can I transition from a medical assistant to a radiology technician in Hawaii?
Medical assistants looking to expand their clinical expertise can consider transitioning into radiology technician roles. This pathway requires building upon existing patient care skills with specialized training in diagnostic imaging and radiation safety protocols to meet state-specific certification and licensure requirements. Pursuing targeted educational programs that focus on radiologic sciences and acquiring hands-on experience with advanced imaging equipment are crucial steps in this transition. Professionals should evaluate available bridging courses or certificate programs to better align their clinical background with the technical demands of radiology. For a detailed overview of the transition process and educational pathways, learn from our guide on how to become a radiology technician in Hawaii.
Challenges and Opportunities for Medical Assistants in Hawaii
Hawaii's stunning landscapes and vibrant culture aren't the only draws to the state. Its healthcare industry, particularly the role of medical assistants, offers promising career opportunities. Regardless of whether you have enrolled in cheap online medical assistant programs or other health programs, it will still prepare you to overcome the challenges faced in Hawaii.
Challenges:
High Cost of Living: Hawaii has a significantly higher cost of living compared to the mainland US. While salaries are also higher for medical assistants, it might not fully compensate for expenses like housing and transportation. This can make it difficult for some to enter or remain in the field.
Geographic Isolation: Being an island state, Hawaii can have limited access to specialized healthcare resources and specialists. Medical assistants may need to adapt to a more generalist role and handle a broader range of medical tasks compared to their mainland counterparts.
Cultural Sensitivity: Hawaii's diverse population necessitates cultural competency from medical assistants. Providing respectful care that considers various traditions and practices requires ongoing training and understanding.
Opportunities:
Focus on Preventative Care: Hawaii has a growing emphasis on preventative care and community health initiatives. Medical assistants can play a vital role in public health outreach programs and screenings, promoting overall well-being in their communities.
Integration of Traditional Practices: Medical assistant programs in Hawaii may incorporate training on traditional Hawaiian healing practices, allowing graduates to integrate these approaches alongside modern medicine. This holistic approach can be particularly appealing to patients seeking a more comprehensive form of care.
Island-Specific Specialties: Working in Hawaii can expose medical assistants to unique medical needs and specialties specific to the islands, such as tropical diseases or travel medicine. This can be a valuable asset when seeking employment opportunities within the state.
Career Advancement and Related Roles for Medical Assistants in Hawaii
While a career as a medical assistant in Hawaii is rewarding, many professionals look to expand their horizons by pursuing advanced certifications or transitioning to related roles in the healthcare field. Career advancement can provide opportunities for higher pay, specialized skills, and more responsibilities, enhancing long-term career satisfaction.
Specialized Certifications for Medical Assistants
Medical assistants can increase their marketability by earning certifications in niche areas of healthcare. For instance, gaining expertise in medical billing and coding can open doors to administrative positions or even roles as medical coders. Certifications like the Certified Professional Coder (CPC) not only demonstrate your competence but also position you for leadership opportunities in healthcare facilities.
Transitioning to Administrative or Clinical Specialties
Many medical assistants choose to delve deeper into healthcare administration or clinical specialties. Administrative roles might include office management, patient care coordination, or overseeing billing processes. If you're interested in this pathway, consider exploring affordable online courses tailored to these career goals, such as medical billing and coding online courses cost, which provide a solid foundation for higher-level administrative work.
For those leaning toward clinical roles, certifications in phlebotomy, EKG technology, or even patient education are excellent options. These credentials can help medical assistants transition to roles such as patient care technicians or clinical supervisors.
Pursuing Further Education
Earning an Associate or Bachelor’s degree in healthcare administration, nursing, or a related field can significantly expand career prospects. Many programs in Hawaii offer flexible learning modes, enabling working professionals to upskill without disrupting their current roles.
Gaining Leadership Roles
Experienced medical assistants often progress into supervisory or managerial positions within healthcare facilities. Adding continuing education credentials or a degree in healthcare management can strengthen your qualifications for such roles. These positions often involve overseeing office operations, training new staff, and ensuring compliance with state and national healthcare regulations.
Career advancement not only allows medical assistants to take on varied and challenging responsibilities but also strengthens Hawaii's healthcare system by fostering skilled professionals ready to tackle complex roles.
Enter the Best Medical Assistant Schools in Hawaii
The shortage of medical assistants in Hawaii is a pressing concern, as it limits the ability of hospitals and clinics to provide essential care to the community. Fortunately, medical assistant schools in Hawaii offer affordable and accessible training programs to help you enter the field. The medical assistant training programs we have listed in this article are among the most well-respected and effective on the market and can provide you with ample training for certification. If you are also interested in the administrative side of healthcare, you may also want to supplement your medical assistant training through a medical office administration program.
Key Insights
Projected Job Growth: Medical assistant employment in Hawaii is expected to grow by 22% from 2020 to 2030, generating approximately 640 job openings annually, which is significantly higher than the national average.
High Demand and Competitive Salaries: Hawaii’s aging population and increasing demand for healthcare services have driven the demand for medical assistants. The average salary for medical assistants in Hawaii is $43,750, 14% higher than the national average.
Accreditation and Certification: Accredited programs by CAAHEP or ABHES are crucial for certification eligibility, with two main credentials being Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) and Registered Medical Assistant (RMA).
Program Costs and Financial Considerations: Tuition for medical assistant programs in Hawaii ranges between $131 and $248 per credit, with additional non-academic costs such as materials and transportation to consider.
Program Accessibility: Programs offer various tracks, including certificates and associate degrees, with some institutions like Hawaii Pacific Health providing tuition-free options.
FAQ
Is medical assisting a good job in Hawaii?
Yes, medical assisting is a promising career in Hawaii due to the high demand for healthcare services, competitive salaries, and the significant job growth projected in the coming years.
What are the steps to becoming a medical assistant in Hawaii?
The steps include earning a high school diploma or equivalent, attending an accredited medical assistant program, and obtaining certification as a Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) or Registered Medical Assistant (RMA).
How long does it take to complete a medical assistant program in Hawaii?
Medical assistant programs in Hawaii typically take one to two years to complete, depending on whether you pursue a certificate or an associate degree.
What are the costs associated with medical assistant programs in Hawaii?
Tuition for medical assistant programs ranges from $131 to $248 per credit. Additional costs may include learning materials, transportation, and housing.
What are the top medical assistant schools in Hawaii?
Top schools include Kapi’olani Community College, Kaua’i Community College, and Hawaii Pacific Health, all of which offer accredited programs with high certification exam pass rates.
What certifications are available for medical assistants in Hawaii?
The two main certifications are Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) from the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA) and Registered Medical Assistant (RMA) from the American Medical Technologists (AMT).
What factors should I consider when choosing a medical assistant program in Hawaii?
Consider factors such as accreditation, program length, delivery method (online or in-person), cost, and the program’s track record of graduating certified medical assistants.
How does accreditation impact my medical assistant education?
Accreditation ensures that the program meets specific quality standards, making you eligible for certification exams and enhancing your employment prospects.
Can I complete a medical assistant program online in Hawaii?
Yes, some medical assistant programs in Hawaii offer online or hybrid instruction, providing flexibility for students with existing commitments or full-time jobs.
What career advancement opportunities are available for medical assistants in Hawaii?
Medical assistants can advance their careers by gaining additional certifications, pursuing further education in healthcare administration or nursing, and taking on leadership roles in healthcare settings.
What unique cultural and healthcare experiences can students expect from medical assistant programs in Hawaii?
Medical assistant programs in Hawaii offer unique cultural and healthcare experiences that are deeply influenced by the state's diverse population and rich heritage. Students can expect to gain practical skills while working in a multicultural environment, learning to provide culturally sensitive care to patients from various ethnic backgrounds. Programs often include training on traditional Hawaiian health practices and the integration of modern medicine with holistic approaches. Additionally, the state's emphasis on community health and wellness provides students with opportunities to participate in public health initiatives and outreach programs. These experiences equip graduates with a comprehensive understanding of healthcare delivery in Hawaii's unique cultural context.