This course introduces the operations of a medical office or clinic environment. Topics include the duties and responsibilities of the office staff as well as information on professional development and industry certifications for administrative medical personnel. The scope of practice of the medical assistant, including legal and ethical standards, will also be explored. Students will learn best practices for professional communication, patient advocacy, resume writing, interview skills, and have an introduction to the electronic health record. This course also provides a broad overview of health insurance, as well as the procedures for submitting insurance claims for reimbursement to major health insurance carriers and government agencies. Students will learn about Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) and the International Classification of Diseases Clinical Modification (ICD-10-CM). Students learn both electronic and paper medical documentation to assign specific codes for diagnoses and billing. Upon completion of this course the student will be prepared to function in the role of the front office medical assistant.

This course introduces the basics of human anatomy and physiology, taking a systems approach to the human body and disease processes. Students will learn about each organ and its role in maintaining homeostasis. Students will learn about the most common medical diagnosis, including signs, symptoms, etiology, diagnosis and treatment. Basics of nutrition will be included as it relates to each disease process. Students will learn medical terminology as it relates to the body and disease processes, including origin, correct spelling, pronunciation, meaning, and correct usage of common medical terms. The course introduces medical equipment and assisting physicians with exams and minor office surgical procedures. Topics include principles and practices of infection control, patient medical history, documentation, vital signs, and basic medication administration. Students are instructed in methods of quality control for specimen collection, transport, and testing while they learn to screen patients for various diagnostic tests and test result reporting. Students will learn the basic principles of performing an electrocardiogram (ECG), pulmonary function testing, capillary puncture, and venipuncture. This course also presents the California Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) Bloodborne and Airborne Pathogen standards that protect health care workers from contracting infectious diseases.

This course allows medical assistant students with hands-on, unpaid clinical experience in a medical office, clinic, or urgent care. Students apply the skills they have learned from their courses in a safe, ethical, and legal manner. The course emphasizes enhancing communication skills, professionalism, and interpersonal relationships. Students will work with their preceptor to develop time management skills, professional communication, and clinical skills.