Campus News
April 8th, 2025
GC students completing CMAA class hours
Eight Garrett College students are nearing completion of their CMAA coursework. Pictured, left to right, (seated) are Faith Eichorn (Swanton), Kayla Lytle (Addison), Shayla Sanders (Oakland), Katie Wilt (Grantsville), (standing) Instructor Bridgette Friend, Linda Biggs (Accident), Megan Smith (McHenry), Jasmine Corby (Westernport), Stephanie Stewart (Swanton) and Instructor Lindaly Stewart.
Eight students in the Certified Medical Administrative Assistant (CMAA) program at Garrett College are nearing completion of their coursework and are currently immersed in their externships, according to Program Coordinator Doug Beitzel.
“Our students are gaining valuable, real-world experience in medical offices and healthcare facilities,” said Beitzel, noting the students will soon be taking the CMAA certification, offered through the National Healthcareer Association (NHA), which marks a significant step in each student’s path in the healthcare industry.
Beitzel said the CMAA credential is one of three nationally recognized certifications students will earn by the end of their training. This administrative-focused portion of the program prepares students for front-office responsibilities, including scheduling, patient check-in, insurance verification, medical billing, and managing electronic health records (EHRs).
“Through a combination of classroom instruction, virtual learning, and hands-on externship experiences, students have developed the professional and technical skills needed to be effective and efficient in today’s fast-paced medical settings,” said Beitzel, noting the need for medical assistants is increasing dramatically.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of medical assistants—including both clinical and administrative roles—is expected to grow by 14% from 2022 to 2032, which is much faster than average. The continued expansion of healthcare services, especially for the aging population, is fueling demand for skilled support staff who can manage both administrative and clinical duties.
Beitzel said a CMAA certification allows individuals to work in a variety of settings including hospitals, physician offices, and clinics, and more, making it one of the most versatile credentials in allied health.
Applications are open for the next CMAA program cohort, and scholarship funding is available to assist students. Those interested in applying, or seeking more information, should contact Beitzel (301-387-3772, doug.beitzel@garrettcollege.edu).
