In the dynamic and growing field of allied health, staying competitive and expanding your career opportunities often requires more than just a degree. Certifications can provide specialized skills, demonstrate your commitment to professional development and open doors to new roles and higher salaries. Here’s a guide to the top certifications allied health professionals should consider to enhance career growth.
Certified Medical Assistant (CMA)
For medical assistants seeking to validate their expertise, the CMA credential, offered by the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA), is a gold standard. This certification demonstrates proficiency in both administrative and clinical tasks, making you a standout candidate in the job market.
Why It’s Valuable:
- Recognized nationwide
- Increases earning potential
- Opens doors to advanced roles in healthcare settings
Certified Professional Coder (CPC)
If you’re interested in medical coding, the CPC certification from the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC) is essential. It equips you with the skills to accurately code medical procedures and diagnoses, which is crucial for healthcare billing and reimbursement.
Why It’s Valuable:
- High demand in hospitals, clinics and insurance companies
- Demonstrates mastery of coding systems like CPT, ICD-10, and HCPCS
- Potential for remote work opportunities
Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT)
Phlebotomists play a vital role in diagnostic and medical procedures by collecting blood samples. The CPT certification, offered by organizations like the National Healthcareer Association (NHA), validates your skills in blood collection and patient interaction.
Why It’s Valuable:
- Enhances job security in labs, hospitals and clinics.
- Shows commitment to patient safety and accurate sample handling
- Can be a stepping stone to other healthcare roles
Physical Therapy Specialty Certifications
For physical therapists, earning a specialty certification from the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties (ABPTS) can help you stand out. Options include orthopedics, geriatrics and sports.
Why It’s Valuable:
- Highlights expertise in a specific area of care
- Increases your credibility and marketability
- Often leads to higher salaries
Registered Behavior Technician (RBT)
Allied health professionals interested in working with individuals with developmental or behavioral challenges should consider the RBT certification from the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB). This credential prepares you to assist in implementing behavior analysis plans.
Why It’s Valuable:
- High demand in schools, clinics and therapy centers
- Provides a pathway to more advanced behavior analysis roles
- Recognized internationally
Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES)
For those focused on health promotion and education, the CHES credential, offered by the National Commission for Health Education Credentialing (NCHEC), is ideal. This certification signifies expertise in designing and implementing effective health education programs.
Why It’s Valuable:
- Recognized in public health, non-profits and corporate wellness
- Strengthens your ability to lead impactful health initiatives
- May lead to leadership roles
Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA)
For occupational therapy assistants, becoming a COTA through the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) is a critical step. It validates your skills in helping patients regain or improve their daily living abilities.
Why It’s Valuable:
- Required in many states to practice
- Increases job opportunities and earning potential
- Highlights your commitment to professional excellence
Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA)
The CCMA credential, offered by the NHA, is ideal for medical assistants looking to enhance their clinical skills. This certification focuses on patient care, clinical procedures and assisting in medical examinations.
Why It’s Valuable:
- Differentiates you from non-certified professionals
- Demonstrates advanced clinical competencies
- Recognized by employers across healthcare settings
Investing in certifications is an excellent way for allied health professionals to obtain career advancement and develop professionally. Not only do they showcase your expertise and dedication, but they also provide you with the specialized skills needed to excel in your chosen field. Evaluate your career goals, research certification requirements and take the next step toward professional growth. The healthcare industry is ever-evolving, and with the right certifications, you can ensure you’re always at the forefront.
Looking for a new allied role? Cross Country Search has positions available nationwide at top facilities. Let us know you are interested here.
