Medical Assistant

Vocabulary and terms used in the medical professions. Meanings of root words, prefixes and suffixes are studied. Proficiency is gained in analyzing medical words and in understanding how the word elements relate and apply to medicine. (A grade of ”C” or higher required to continue in medical programs.)

Basic anatomy and physiology of the human body. Systems studied include integumentary, musculo-skeletal, nervous, circulatory, lymphatic, respiratory, urinary, digestive, endocrine and reproductive. (A grade of ”C” or higher required to continue in medical programs.)

Ethical principles and legal regulations governing a medical practice.

Students are introduced to the medical laboratory’s role in the healthcare system. The theory and operation principles of laboratory safety are covered. Students are introduced to medical laboratory procedures as related to Medical Assistant duties including the importance of techniques associated with proper specimen collection and handling– to include collection and processing of blood, urine, and microbiology samples. Students develop a working knowledge of statistical concepts in quality assurance. This course is designed to provide students with basic theory, principles, and techniques in physical and chemical urinalysis. Hematological test theory, principles and techniques are covered including CLIA-waived hematology testing and sedimentation rates. Clinical correlation and quality control are stressed.  Students will also be introduced to CLIA–waived immunology, coagulation, clinical chemistry, and microbiology methods and procedures. Laboratory safety and quality assurance is emphasized.   

Preparing for Clinical Procedures required of Medical Assistants. Coursework includes Infection Control and Medical Asepsis, Measurement Systems, Basic Mathematics and Dosage Calculations, Administering Oral and non-injectable Medications, Administering Injections and Immunizations, Vital signs and body measurements, preparing for and assisting with Examinations, The Medical history and Patient screening, Electronic Medical Record, Emergencies in the Medical office and in the Community, First Aid for injuries, and Rehabilitation.

This course is designed to develop students’ problem-solving skills and quantitative reasoning through topics including: problem-solving processes, logic, percentages, measurement, ratios and proportions, statistics, linear equations, geometry and trigonometry, and personal finance.

Provides a foundation for gaining the knowledge, skills and attitudes necessary for college success. Students will learn to make a successful transition to higher education by setting up a pattern of success that will last the rest of their lives. Students will define goals and develop thinking skills, learning strategies and personal qualities essential to both academic and career success. Please note: Students who have served active military duty (excluding basic training and AIT) may be exempt from the Student Success course. Student must provide a copy of DD214 or other official military documentation to the registrar for verification.

This course is designed to introduce students to the medical field and the duties and responsibilities of the medical assistant. The student will gain an understanding of the history of medicine, privacy laws, medical ethics, and patient care and procedures. Additionally, the privacy law (HIPAA) will be studied with regards to how it impacts the role of a medical assistant, particularly what can and cannot be shared outside of this legislation. Material, situations and work in a medical front office. The perspective of the medical assistant is emphasized. Communication skills, recording patient histories, office accounting, secretarial, reception and other clerical skills are stressed.

Provides the knowledge and skills needed to successfully perform insurance and billing related duties. Following the medical billing process, instruction moves from a comprehensive introductory chapter through processing RA/EOBs and handling patient collections. It has extensive illustrations, forms, and exercises to develop required competencies. This text also provides a fundamental understanding of diagnostic and procedural coding needed to submit claims in compliance with payers’ requirements. 

Coding: A formal system for converting descriptions of diseases, injuries, and health care procedures into numeric and alphanumeric designations. Students will learn to place code numbers and correlate to procedures performed to test or correct diagnoses.

Pathology of diseases. Special emphasis is placed on the etiology, signs, symptoms, diagnoses and treatment options for diseases and conditions of the human body.

Identification of the classification and uses of medicines, vaccines, etc. Included are the correct procedures for administration of these materials.

To build knowledge of medications and how the drugs are used to treat most diseases. Introduction of Nutrition and supplements, herbs, and vitamins.

A continuation of clinical procedures performed in a medical office setting. Coursework includes Mental illness, Pediatrics, Obstetrics and Gynecology, physical exams, instrument recognition, and naming. Eye and ear procedures, dressing application, preparing minor office surgery trays, and assisting the physician during minor office surgeries and procedures.

Apply patient education principles when providing instructions for preparing for cardiac, diagnostic and radiology procedures and operation of equipment for cardiac care. Instruct and prepare a patient for specialty examinations and procedures.

This course meets CDC, OSHA and NFPA guidelines for basic life support. It focuses on immediate life-threatening situations, demonstrates quick, effective responses and presents perspectives on how frequently these situations occur. It is ideal for professionals such as firefighters, police, paramedics, lifeguards, athletic trainers, medical assistants and other medical professionals. Topics covered include the professional rescuer’s role in emergencies; victim’s condition assessment; basic life support; rescue breathing; cardiac emergencies; airway obstructions; AED use; and resuscitation in special situations. This class is offered for credit as a Pass/No Pass course.

Experience in medical facilities and organizations. Work is performed under the direct supervision of licensed medical personnel. Prerequisite: Successful completion of 64.5 credits prior to start of externship.