In the Medical Assistant program, students acquire the knowledge and skills necessary to gain successful employment in a medical office, hospital, and clinic or related health care setting.

The program emphasizes exploration and preparation of various careers within the health field. Sophomore and Junior students learn the theory and skills required to function in the role of a Medical Assistant. They also acquire both clinical and administrative skills. Administrative skills include typing, computer usage, telephone communication, appointment scheduling, billing procedure, coding, insurance forms, mail and record maintenance, and office machinery. Clinical skills include vital signs, admission procedures, sterilization techniques and performing sterile procedures, EKGs, urinalysis, hematology, medications, CPR, first aid, and specialty examinations procedures.

During the Sophomore year, students are placed in New Bedford Public school, nurses’ offices assisting the nurse with such things as First Aid assessment, Ht/Wt screenings, Vision & Hearing screenings, and updating medical records.

Junior students observe and gain experience in a variety of medical settings. As Seniors, students develop ‘on the job’ competencies through job placement or cooperative education.

Upon successful completion of the medical assisting program, students who meet the necessary requirements may sit for the following National Certifications.

Exams:

• Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT)
• Certified EKG Technician (CET)
• Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA)
• Certified Billing & Coding Specialist (CBCS)
• Certified Medical Administrative Assistant (CMAA)