Medical Assistant

Medical Assistant Certificate

Prepares the student in the role of a medical assistant. Medical assistants are health care workers that assist physicians in the office setting (clinics/medical offices). Medical Assistants can make appointments, take vital signs, gather intake/admission information including health concerns and symptoms to document in medical files, and draw lab work. Medical Assistant work directly under doctors/physicians but cannot give medical advice to patients, duties are limited to giving support to the medical staff. The Bureau of Labor Statistics project a 15% job growth in the field through 2033, the career outlook is strong and expanding.

Program Learning Outcomes

Goal 1: Be able to provide assistance to physicians in the office/clinical setting.
Goal 2: Demonstrate proficiency in assisting physicians in gathering patient history/intake.
Goal 3: Demonstrate proficiency in assisting physicians in gathering patient vital signs.
Goal 4: Demonstrate proficiency in assisting physicians with record keeping,
Goal 5: Demonstrate proficiency in assisting physicians in collecting patient labs/specimens, labeling correctly, and processing lab orders accurately.
Goal 6: Demonstrate proficiency in assisting physicians in scheduling appointments in the office/clinic setting.
Goal 7: Apply verbal, nonverbal, and written communication principles and skills effectively and compassionately within a team setting.
Goal 8: Uphold legal and ethical standards and adhere to principles of patient confidentiality within the health care and community environment as defined by HIPAA.
Goal 9: Maintain industry standards of quality control and safety principles in the workplace.
Goal 10: Demonstrate professionalism through acceptable attitude, organization and time management skills, and attire.
Goal 11: Prepare for the medical assistant certification examination.

Medical Assistant Cost Sheet

What is the difference between a Medical Assistant and a Nurse?

Medical assistants and nurses both work with patients and support physicians in the office/clinical setting. However, nurses focused more on direct patient care than medical assistants. For example, the nurse may focus on medical tests and medication education versus a medical assistant focusing on scheduling appointments and maintaining records/collecting medical history. Nurses focus on more complex skills and direct hands-on care. Nurses also have more education. Medical assistants don’t need a state license to work, but they may choose to get a certificate.

Certification Information

Certification may be obtained by taking an exam from the National Healthcareer Association. If you choose to take a certification exam after completing the course work, it will be your responsibility to schedule and pay for the exam. If you have a prospective employer, you should contact them and inquire about certification requirements. Employment is available in clinics and healthcare provider offices.

The estimated costs are for in-district students (out of district and out of state residents will be charged a higher rate; contact Enrollment Services if you have questions about residency 252-5400 ext. 4120)