Overview
If you like helping people, experience the rewards of caring by entering one of the most in-demand career fields in healthcare! The Medical Assistant field is projected to be one of the fastest growing occupations over the 2004-14 period, according to the US Dept. of Labor.*

The Medical Assisting program prepares students with the knowledge, technical skills, computer proficiency, and work habits necessary for entry-level employment in various healthcare positions. Students gain proficiency in both administrative and clinical skills through interactive and "hands-on" learning including a "real world" externship experience. Student studies include:

• Anatomy
• Physiology
• Pharmacology
• Computer Applications
• Clinical Procedures.

What You Can Learn
Graduates in the Medical Assistant field may assume a range of responsibilities including:

• Administrative - Initial contact with patients, scheduling appointments, receiving and processing payments, preparing billing statements, and handling mail. Experienced graduates may function in supervisory or managerial capacities including personnel selection, hiring, and evaluation.
• Clinical - Assisting the physician with patient care responsibilities such as taking medical history and vital signs, preparing the patient for examination, and assisting the physician during patient examination and surgical procedures. Additional clinical duties may include collecting and performing various laboratory tests, administering medications, performing diagnostic procedures such as EKGs, and patient education.

Where You Can Go
Upon completion of the program, Medical Assistant graduates are qualified to take professional certification exams. Entry-level employment opportunities available for graduates include physician offices, clinics, and related healthcare settings.

*Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook March 2006