Details

Autor(en) / Beteiligte

• Gray, Denise A

Titel

The relationship of certain academic variables as predictors of success for first-time CMA exam takers

Ort / Verlag

ProQuest Dissertations & Theses

Erscheinungsjahr

2006

Quelle

ProQuest Dissertations & Theses A&I

Beschreibungen/Notizen

• The purpose of this retrospective study was twofold: (1) to examine the relationship of certain academic factors as predictors of performance on the medical assistant's certification exam, and (2) to identify factors predictive of passing the certification exam on the initial attempt. Subjects (180) were diploma and associate degree graduates of an accredited program at a private, Midwestern college from 1997-2001. Accreditation of this program was awarded to this institution by the Commission on Accreditation for Allied Health Education Program (CAAHEP). This process was a rigorous one. It consisted of a formal application, self-study, and an on-site evaluation. Continuing accreditation depends on several factors. One of these factors is the pass rate for medical assistants who take the certification exam. The outcome variable was pass/fail on the certification exam (CMA exam) for medical assistants. Eleven academic predictor variables were studied. They included pre-admission variables and selected medical assisting course grades. Data were analyzed by using SPSS for Windows (SPSS 12.0). Both descriptive and inferential statistics were employed. The results showed a significant relationship between the Nelson-Denny reading score and the core medical assisting courses. Students who pass the CMA exam on the initial attempt tended to have higher Nelson-Denny reading scores and grades of A or B in their core courses. Results of this study indicated that the Nelson-Denny reading score, the Mathematics Placement Exam, and select core courses could be used in a statistical model to predict pass or fail on the certification exam for medical assistants. Identifying students who are at risk for failing the CMA exam is only the first step in aiding them to succeed. Continued research is needed to study the factors that contribute to success in a medical assisting program and successful performance on the CMA exam. Admission decisions, students' performance, and the outcome thresholds mandated by accrediting bodies are elements of success.