CMAS FAQ
How do I qualify for the certification examination?
To qualify for the certification examination, you must be a current member of AAMAS. The AAMAS membership requirement is based on dues paid by January 31st of the year of the examination. In addition, the following are required:
- Two (2) years of authenticated health care audit experience (at least 20 hours/week minimum but no less than two years).
- Two (2) years of healthcare related experience.
- Education-- a minimum of 60 college semester units (associate degree equivalent). A diploma in nursing will meet the educational requirements.
- Proof of completion of a college level course in Accounting, Finance, Mathematics, or Statistics. A Certification Council approved course in Accounting also meets this eligibility.
What documents do I submit to justify proof that I have met the requirements?
First, the CMAS application form needs to be completed. This is found in the CMAS Candidate Handbook and can be downloaded through the AAMAS website at http://www.aamas.org/documents/08_New_Candidate_Handbook.doc
Second, submit your most current resume, and a copy of your transcript showing a college level accounting or statistics class.
Third, enclose the testing fee with your documents.
I have a diploma in nursing. Courses in accounting, finance, mathematics, and statistics were not part of this curriculum. Where can I take these courses?
You may take any of these courses in any community college or university in your locality. Often they are offered as independent two or three credit courses. There are also on-line distance learning credit courses offered by some colleges and universities. AAMAS offers an accounting course. Check the website, http://www.aamas.org/ for details.
I took an accounting class in high school. Is that acceptable?
No, a high school level accounting class is not acceptable.
When is the certification examination given?
The examination is administered at the annual AAMAS Conference. If it is given at other sites during the year, it will be announced in advance on the AAMAS website and in our newsletter.
How do I prepare for the CMAS examination?
Two years of medical audit experience should have provided you with the basic skills and knowledge to meet the requirements of an entry level medical auditor. The core curriculum domains represent the scope and job responsibilities of medical auditors nationally. These core domains are described in the Candidate Handbook. The information in the domains will help you determine the areas for review.
Is there a study guide available to examination candidates?
Study guides are not available to CMAS certification candidates. NOCA (National Organization for Competency Assurance), does not recommend the distribution of study guides and cites such a guide as a conflict of interest. The Certification Council subscribes to this recommendation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Recertfication
My certification expires this year, how do I qualify for recertification?
To qualify for recertification, you must maintain continuous AAMAS membership for each year during the certification period and complete 36 hours of CMAS Continuing Education Units (CEU’s).
What documents do I submit to justify proof that I have met the requirements?
First, the CMAS Recertification application and tracking forms need to be completed. There are forms in the CMAS Recertification Handbook. They can be downloaded through the AAMAS website at http://www.aamas.org/documents/07_RecertHandbook.pdf
Second, you must meet the CMAS CEU requirements listed in the handbook.
How can I meet the CMAS CEU requirements?
The CMAS CEU requirements can be met by completing 36 hours of AAMAS sponsored CEU’s or a combination of the following:
- A maximum of 18 CEU’s from clinical topics
- Other areas of focus for CEU’s are financial, regulatory, coding, auditing, medical record, documentation, legal, health care related, etc.
- Attending approved state/national conferences
- Home study courses, on-line learning education courses, and webinars in health care
Is attendance at the AAMAS national conference mandatory to be recertified?
No, it is not mandatory to attend the annual AAMAS conference to be recertified. You can obtain CEU’s through other sources, but continuous membership in AAMAS is required.
My employer is paying for my recertification, what if their check is not received by the deadline?
The payment must accompany the application. It is the candidate’s responsibility to make sure all the requirements are met, including the fee. The deadline for submission of applications is February 28.
Can recertification be denied?
Recertification can be denied because of the following:
- Failure to fulfill membership requirements
- Failure to fulfill continuing education requirements
- Obtaining or attempting to obtain certification or recertification by fraud or deception
What if I let my certification lapse?
CMAS who have allowed their certification to lapse and wish to recertify must meet all current requirements for certification, submit an application along with the applicable fee and retake the certification examination. Refer to the current Candidate Handbook for all requirements.
