Frequently Asked Questions
Although not legally mandated, the majority, if not all, employers typically seek or require certification from a third party in theallied health fields.
National Certifications, also referred to as industry credentials, are not mandated at the federal level. This implies that
possessing a national certification is not a prerequisite for securing employment. Furthermore, across the United States, there
exist numerous private credentialing agencies tasked with assessing field competency and knowledge. Government institutions
like the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services and Health and Human Services have established specific credential
preferences for medical billing purposes.
Amid claims by educational institutions about the excellence of their students, credential agencies play a crucial role in
objectively evaluating competency. Education serves as the bedrock for acquiring knowledge and clinical skills, and our objective
is to assess the competency of students molded by their academic institutions.
- Credentials: This is a broad term that encompasses all the qualifications and achievements of a healthcare professional. It can include degrees, diplomas, and certificates that demonstrate their education and training.
- Certifications: Certifications are specific endorsements granted by professional organizations or certifying bodies. They validate that a healthcare professional has acquired specialized knowledge or skills in a particular area of medicine. Obtaining a certification often involves passing an exam or meeting specific criteria set by the certifying entity.
- Licenses: A license is a legal authorization granted by a government or regulatory body that permits a healthcare professional to practice within a specific jurisdiction. Licensing ensures that individuals meet the minimum standards and qualifications required to provide medical services. It is a mandatory requirement for practicing medicine legally.
Pay the standard credential fee ($330.00 USD) plus a one time new member fee ($85.00 USD)
To apply for renewal each member must complete the following:
- Submitting the required documentation
- Pay the biannual fee of $330.00. There is a lapsed credential fee of $85.00 when renewing after the expiration date.
- Register to attend one of our seminars or webinars and earn required CEUs.
Before starting the online submission, you will need the following information to complete the
application here.
- Drivers license or Passport
- Education documents from your training program(s)
- BLS for healthcare providers by the American Heart Association
- Employment verification with employer contact information
All expired credentials (no matter how long) become renewals on a case-by-case basis. Follow the renewal process. Apply and submit all supporting documents requested. NCMA will direct you throughout the reinstatement process.
Please note there will be an expired credential fee of $85.00 for each expired year. Furthermore, if your credentials have expired for more than one year without valid proof of employment in your specific field, there may be a need for you to take part in a refresher course.
- Submit your picture ID
- NCMA ID Number
- Lost credentials’ application found here https://www.ncmanow.org/lost-credentials/
- Make payment
- Receive a confirmation email and hard color copies, mailed directly to you.
So, you’ve earned additional NCMA credentials, congratulations! Here are a few things to keep in
mind regarding renewals:
- Earning additional NCMA credentials does not change your renewal period. Instead, your new
credential will be renewed at the same time as your original credential. - Your renewal fee will not increase. Your payment of $330 will cover the renewal of all your NCMA
Credentials
To complete the required CEUs (Continued Education Units)
Processing a *complete application requires a minimum of 2-3 business days. Once the application has been processed and approved, an approval email with the webinar/seminar/exam date information with instructions for participation. The entire process from start until receipt of your new national credentials is about 1 – 4 weeks.
*An application is complete once all required documents have been submitted.
- Recent Graduates
- Practitioners – Employed
- Reciprocity – Via employment or transfer from another agency
- Be on time or you will not be allowed to sit for the exam
- Bring two number 2 pencils and an eraser
- Arrive 15 minutes early with a valid government-issued photo ID, and wearing a full uniform to participate in the exam.
Candidates must:
- Successfully complete a training program in the health field offered by an accredited or state-recognized
institution or provider. - Work Experience Candidates must have at least one (1) year of supervised work experience in the health
field in order to sit down for our exams. - BLS/CPR Certification from the American Heart Association is a requirement for all members.
Yes. Study materials are available for purchase in our online store.
Yes, it is. The NCMA is recognized by:
- Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services
- Medicare Learning Networks
- NCCAOM
- Career Source Florida
- New Jersey Career Connections
- NJDOE
- NJ Department Labor and WorkForce Development
- NJ Division of Consumer Affairs.