A Medical Assisting degree equips students with the practical skills and medical knowledge needed to assist healthcare professionals in clinical and administrative tasks. This program is designed to prepare individuals for roles in various healthcare settings such as hospitals, clinics, and medical offices. Below is an outline of the core courses, elective options, and common career opportunities available to graduates of medical assisting programs.

Core Courses in Medical Assisting

1. Medical Terminology – Learn the language of medicine, including common terms used in clinical settings.
2. Anatomy and Physiology – Study of the structure and function of the human body, including all major systems.
3. Clinical Procedures – Introduction to patient care skills such as taking vital signs, administering injections, and assisting with exams.
4. Pharmacology for Medical Assistants – Understanding of basic drug classifications, dosages, and administering medications.
5. Medical Office Management – Training in the administrative tasks involved in running a medical office, including scheduling and patient records management.
6. Medical Law and Ethics – Examination of legal and ethical issues in healthcare, patient confidentiality, and professional conduct.
7. Infection Control – Learn about sterilization techniques, patient safety, and how to prevent the spread of infections in healthcare settings.
8. Laboratory Procedures – Training in basic laboratory skills such as specimen collection, lab tests, and equipment usage.
9. CPR and First Aid – Certification in emergency care skills, including cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and basic first aid.
10. Externship in Medical Assisting – Hands-on experience in a clinical environment, allowing students to apply what they've learned in real-world situations.

Electives for Specialization

1. EKG Technician Training – Learn how to operate electrocardiograph equipment and monitor heart function.
2. Phlebotomy – Study the techniques for drawing blood and handling blood specimens.
3. Medical Coding and Billing – Training in medical billing systems and coding procedures for insurance and patient records.
4. Radiology Basics for Medical Assistants – Introduction to basic radiology and imaging techniques.
5. Geriatric Care – Specialized training in working with elderly patients, including common health conditions and care techniques.

Common Career Paths for Medical Assisting Graduates

• Clinical Medical Assistant – Assist physicians with patient care, perform clinical tasks, and manage exam rooms.
• Administrative Medical Assistant – Manage the front office, patient records, and billing in healthcare facilities.
• Phlebotomy Technician – Draw blood and prepare specimens for laboratory analysis.
• EKG Technician – Operate EKG machines to monitor patients’ heart activity.
• Medical Office Manager – Oversee the operations of a medical office, including staff management, scheduling, and compliance.
• Medical Biller/Coder – Process insurance claims and manage patient billing records for healthcare facilities.

A Medical Assisting Degree: Get Prepared!

A Medical Assisting degree program combines clinical and administrative training to prepare graduates for essential roles in healthcare. Through core courses and specialized electives, students gain hands-on experience and knowledge that are key to helping healthcare professionals deliver quality patient care. Graduates of this program can pursue diverse career paths in both clinical and administrative areas of healthcare.