Medical Assistant in Rhode Island
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for RI. Updated with 2024 BLS OEWS wage data.
BLS OEWS 2024, Rhode Island.
Jobs (RI)
10-yr job growth
Licensing fees
Time to complete
route How to become a medical assistant in Rhode Island
In Rhode Island, Medical Assistants are not licensed by the state. They operate under the direct supervision of a licensed physician or other authorized healthcare provider, with the delegating practitioner responsible for ensuring the MA's competency. While not state-mandated, national certification (such as CMA, RMA, or CCMA) is the industry standard and highly preferred by employers. Aspiring Medical Assistants typically need a high school diploma or GED and often complete an accredited medical assisting program, which can take 9-24 months, to qualify for national certification exams.
bar_chart Salary percentiles
Source: BLS OEWS 2024 for Rhode Island. Metro-area wages may differ significantly from the state aggregate.
checklist Rhode Island requirements
| Licensing body | Rhode Island Department of Health |
| State license | Not required |
| Education | High school diploma or equivalent. Completion of a medical assistant training program accredited by CAAHEP or ABHES is often required for national certification, which is strongly preferred by employers. Qualification can also be based on work experience and demonstrated competency. |
| Exam | National certification exams (e.g., CMA, RMA, CCMA) are not state-mandated but are industry standard. ($120) |
| Renewal | Every 2.0 years |
| Notes | Medical assistants in Rhode Island are not licensed by the state. They practice under the direct supervision and delegation of a licensed physician or other authorized healthcare provider. The delegating physician is responsible for ensuring the MA is competent and maintaining records of training and competency. There are no specific minimum age requirements mentioned by the state, but training programs typically require applicants to be over 18. The Rhode Island Department of Health outlines the scope of practice for medical assistants. |
work_outline Job outlook
AI & tech impact
This career has low exposure to AI automation. Most tasks require physical presence, human judgment, or hands-on skills that AI cannot easily replicate.
balance Is it worth it?
- infoNo state license required — lower barrier but weaker signal
- check_circleStrong 10-year job growth (+12.5%)
- check_circleLow AI disruption risk