Medical Assisting

Overview

The Medical Assisting program is a comprehensive training program designed to prepare students for entry-level employment in various healthcare settings. Students are trained as generalists but may concentrate on a specific area of interest. Medical Assistants focusing on clinical aspects assist physicians by preparing patients for examinations and procedures. Those with a laboratory orientation become phlebotomists, responsible for collecting, processing, and distributing blood samples. All students in the program gain hands-on experience in microbiological procedures, electrocardiograms, and urinalysis. The program also covers the operation of a medical office, including receptionist skills, scheduling, data entry, office procedures, and record-keeping. Depending on the size of the medical practice, a Medical Assistant may perform a variety of duties or specialize in one area. The program provides a strong foundation in medical terminology, human anatomy and physiology, medical ethics, interpersonal relationships, and both clinical and office skills. Maintaining a professional and pleasant demeanor is emphasized, as Medical Assistants often serve as the primary point of contact between the public and healthcare providers.

Program Highlights

Curriculum:
- - Administrative Duties:
    - Scheduling appointments, maintaining medical records, billing, and coding for insurance purposes
  - Clinical Duties:
    - Taking and recording vital signs and medical histories
    - Preparing patients for examination
    - Drawing blood, administering medications as directed by a physician, performing EKGs, urinalysis, and infection control
  - Therapeutic Communication:
    - Effective communication skills with patients and healthcare providers
  - Coursework:
    - Medical terminology, anatomy & physiology, Medical Assisting 1 & 2

Learning Experience

Students in the Medical Assisting program receive a blend of classroom instruction and hands-on experience in both clinical and administrative aspects of healthcare. The program covers vital skills such as patient care, medical office management, and laboratory procedures, ensuring students are well-prepared for a variety of roles in the healthcare industry. Additionally, students can earn college credits through Dual Enrollment with area colleges.

Certification

CPR/AED (American Heart Association)
First Aid
CCMA (Certified Clinical Medical Assistant, NCCA-accredited)
CMAA (Certified Medical Administrative Assistant, NCCA-accredited)

Employment opportunities available with senior year co-op and after graduation:

Medical assistant, EKG technician, phlebotomist, receptionist, pharmacies, outpatient facilities, medical-aid facilities, hospitals, specialist offices, insurance companies, and home care

Earning Potential Range:

$13.25/hr to $25/hr, depending on role and experience.

Locations:

	Instructors:
DELCASTLE TECHNICAL HIGH SCHOOL	Mrs. Sheri Decker Mrs. Sara Cline
	Instructor:
HOWARD HIGH SCHOOL OF TECHNOLOGY	Mrs. Lisa Hall
	Instructor:
ST. GEORGES TECHNICAL HIGH SCHOOL	Mrs. Amy Drennan