Medical Assisting

Certificate of Specialization

This program prepares students for employment in ambulatory medical settings assisting physicians and /or other healthcare professionals in the examination and treatment of patients in accordance with state laws. Graduates are also taught to perform administrative duties commonly required in healthcare facilities. Students planning to enroll in MEDA 210 and 211 must receive instructor permission and submit an Application for Work Experience the quarter preceding enrollment. The student must have completed all required courses with a minimum grade of 2.5 in each course to qualify for practicum placement. Further, all required courses must be taken within the previous three years to register for MEDA 210 and MEDA 211.

Program Prerequisites

Prior to registration for the clinical classes students will need to submit a completed application packet to the office of Records and Registration.

1. Proof of up-to-date immunization status with at least the initial injection of the Hepatitis B series and TB testing within one year.
2. The completed application for the MEDA program.
3. Two letters of recommendation.
4. Signed Statement of Responsibility.
5. Signed Confidentiality Statement.
6. Copies of placement test scores and/or transcripts to verify appropriate placement for Math and English.
7. Any applicable course transcripts needed for consideration for transfer students.
8. All students will be required to request a Criminal History Information Background Check. A student who cannot participate in patient care delivery in clinical settings during externship based on a positive background inquiry check will not be able to successfully complete the program.
9. Additional requirements including titers for chicken pox and/or measles may be compelled by certain extern sites.

The deadline for application is December 1^st, or whenever the clinical MEDA classes are filled with qualified students. Students will be provided with application materials as part of the MEDA 151 course.

1. Purchase of scrubs and appropriate shoes
2. Purchase of wristwatch with sweep second hand
3. Purchase of a stethoscope
4. Vaccinations as needed to meet program requirements
5. Cost of Criminal History Information Background Check
6. Cost of malpractice and liability insurance coverage
7. Cost of healthcare insurance coverage prior to practicum placement

Program Outcomes

1. Perform clinical skills appropriate for an ambulatory healthcare setting.
2. Effectively use oral and written communication skills as they relate to a medical office environment.
3. Use computer software to research or organize data for medical information systems.
4. Critically evaluate medical office situations from multiple perspectives to find appropriate solutions.
5. Recognize and be able to respond to medical office emergencies within scope of training.
6. Perform administrative skills appropriate for an ambulatory healthcare setting.

*See course description for prerequisite.

Source: 2012-2013 Olympic College Catalog