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520+ OPENINGS 7% Job Growth

Medical Assistant Jobs in Arkansas

$35K median salary • Top employers hiring now

Arkansas's healthcare industry employs approximately 180,000 workers across a largely rural state. UAMS (University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences) in Little Rock serves as the academic anchor, while Baptist Health and Mercy operate extensive regional networks. The state faces significant rural health challenges with 74 of 75 counties classified as medically underserved. Healthcare represents a growing economic sector as Arkansas works to improve its 48th-ranked health status.

520+
Annual Jobs
$35K
Median Salary
7%
Job Growth
$0
To Train
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Medical Assistant Jobs in Arkansas

Who This Training Is For

Ideal for candidates with prior MA clinical experience who need certification to validate their skills for Arkansas employers.

New to healthcare? You're welcome to enroll, but be aware: if you have no prior clinical experience, you must complete a Self-Managed 100-Hour Externship on your own to satisfy the program's practical component and prepare for the certification exam.

Externship Disclaimer

EHired does NOT place, arrange, or supervise externships. All externships are self-managed. You are responsible for identifying and securing your own externship site.

Arkansas Healthcare Industry

Understanding the AR healthcare job market:

Arkansas's healthcare industry employs approximately 180,000 workers across a largely rural state. UAMS (University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences) in Little Rock serves as the academic anchor, while Baptist Health and Mercy operate extensive regional networks. The state faces significant rural health challenges with 74 of 75 counties classified as medically underserved. Healthcare represents a growing economic sector as Arkansas works to improve its 48th-ranked health status.

180,000
Healthcare Workers
98
Hospitals
#48
Health Ranking
89.0%
Cost of Living

Medical Assistant Salary in Arkansas

AR salary ranges by experience level:

Salary by Experience

Entry-Level
(0-1 years)
$28,000
Mid-Level
(2-4 years)
$35,500
Experienced
(5+ years)
$44,000

What Affects Your Salary

Little Rock and Northwest Arkansas pay highest CMA wages. UAMS offers state employee benefits adding significant value beyond base salary. Faith-based systems (Baptist, Mercy) offer competitive packages. Rural facilities pay less but cost of living is extremely low—89% of national average means modest salaries stretch much further.

Top Medical Assistant Employers in Arkansas

Arkansas healthcare features academic excellence and extensive faith-based clinic networks hiring CMAs:

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AR Job Market by Region

Where the jobs are in Arkansas:

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Region Annual Openings % of State

Success Stories from Arkansas

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Frequently Asked Questions

How does Arkansas's low cost of living affect CMA earnings?
Arkansas's cost of living is 89% of national average—11% below typical. A $35K CMA salary here has purchasing power equivalent to $39K+ in average-cost states. Housing is particularly affordable, especially outside Little Rock.
Is UAMS the best CMA employer in Arkansas?
UAMS offers unique advantages—state pension, tuition assistance, job security—that add significant value. Baptist Health has more clinic locations statewide. Choice depends on whether you value state benefits or private-sector flexibility and locations.
What about Northwest Arkansas CMA opportunities?
Northwest Arkansas is booming with corporate headquarters driving population growth. Mercy and Washington Regional are expanding clinics rapidly. CMA wages are rising with demand while cost of living remains reasonable compared to other growth markets.
What's the job outlook for CMAs in Arkansas?
Arkansas's CMA market grows at 7% annually with 520+ openings. The state's health challenges create sustained demand for clinical care. Rural health initiatives and aging population drive growth through 2034.
What clinical duties do Arkansas CMAs perform?
Arkansas CMAs perform diverse clinical duties including vitals, injections, phlebotomy, EKGs, wound care, and patient education. Rural and smaller clinics may offer expanded scope due to staffing needs. Specific duties vary by employer protocols.

Medical Assistant Certification in Nearby States

Texas Oklahoma Tennessee Missouri

Start Your Clinical Healthcare Career in Arkansas

Arkansas's healthcare industry employs approximately 180,000 workers across a largely rural state. UAMS (University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences) in Little Rock serves as the academic anchor, while Baptist Health and Mercy operate extensive regional networks. The state faces significant rural health challenges with 74 of 75 counties classified as medically underserved. Healthcare represents a growing economic sector as Arkansas works to improve its 48th-ranked health status.

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