Medical Assistant, Certificate is a Certificate program offered by Des Moines Area Community College in Ankeny, IA. The program takes 37 credits to complete, with a total tuition of $7,955.
Program Overview
Locations: Ankeny
Pathway: Health Science & Fitness
Program Graduation Requirements: To earn a Medical Assistant, Certificate, a student must complete all required coursework as prescribed and maintain a 2.0 grade point average.
Total Credits Required to Complete this Award - 37
What Skills and Abilities Will You Need?: - Perform activities in an organized and detailed manner. - Apply knowledge from the biological and social sciences. - Must have necessary physical and emotional stamina to meet demands of a rigorous schedule. Some employers may require candidates to pass a strength and agility test prior to hiring. - Must have self-discipline and ability to take initiative.
What Else Should I Consider about this Program or Career Choice?: - Individuals who have been found guilty of a felony, or pleaded guilty to a felony, are not eligible for the AAMA (CMA) certification exam. However, the certifying board may grant a waiver based upon mitigating circumstances. - You will be required to communicate easily and clearly with patients and coworkers. - You must accept responsibility for your actions. - You will stand and walk most of the day. - Working under pressure requires good physical health and emotional stability. - Average starting salary $38,270 (2022 Bureau of Labor Statistics).
Program Competencies: - Apply concepts of anatomy and physiology as they relate to the normal function of the human body and to the understanding of disease processes - Implement current principles and guidelines related to laboratory testing, infection control and aseptic techniques in the medical office - Perform effective administrative procedures related to patient reception, medical office billing (insurance, coding and patient accounts) - Adhere to legal and ethical standards governing the practice of medical assisting - Demonstrate effective communication and the ability to establish positive working relationships with diverse patient populations and members of the healthcare team
Admission Requirements and Process
Program Entry Requirements: - Complete an application for admission. - Submit proof of high school graduation or HiSET completion. - Complete required entry assessments. Complete ACCUPLACER Next Gen Reading, ACCUPLACER Next Gen Writing and ALEKS Math assessments, obtaining satisfactory scores in reading (248 or above) writing (254 or above) ALEKS math placement(14 or above)or ACT scores in Reading (19 or above) English (19 or above), Math (14 or above). - Attend a required Medical Assistant information session.
School Information
Campus Location
Why Accreditation Is Important
When you attend an accredited institution, you are attending a school that has undergone a rigorous process that evaluates educational quality. It's not easy to become or remain an accredited institution. The rules and regulations are strict, precise and designed to protect students. Here are some of the benefits:
- A reliable indicator of quality
- Approved program of study
- Qualified instructors
- Recognition by employers nationwide
Accreditations
Application Process
- 1Submit ApplicationComplete the online application form with your personal information and educational background.
- 2Submit TranscriptsProvide official high school transcripts or GED certificate. Some programs may require additional documentation.
- 3Financial AidComplete the FAFSA to determine eligibility for federal financial aid. Meet with a financial aid advisor to review your options.Complete FAFSA Application
- 4EnrollmentOnce accepted, complete enrollment paperwork, register for classes, and attend orientation.
Program Schedule
Students may start this program Fall semester: The Medical Assistant Certificate program Fall start will be delivered face-to-face on the Ankeny campus.
Cost of Attendance and Financial Aid Information
Career Outcomes
What Kind of Work Will You Do?: - Arrange hospital admissions, schedule laboratory and outpatient appointments. - Perform Quality Control Procedures. - Prepare patients for various examinations and assist with examinations and treatments. - Obtain vital signs. - Perform ECGs. - Administer injections and instruct patients about medications and TB testing. - Sterilize instruments, order supplies and maintain treatment rooms. - Schedule appointments, answer telephones and perform patient check-in and check out functions. - Code and complete insurance claim forms. - Obtain blood specimen using venipuncture and finger stick techniques. - Perform laboratory tests (urinalysis, complete blood count, blood chemistries, strep tests, etc.) as ordered by physician. - Assist with minor surgery, apply bandages and dressings and remove sutures. - Maintain patients' records and take medical histories. - Assist in patient education. - Serve as a patient navigator. - Document patient care. - Utilize electronic health records. - Transmit prescription orders as directed.
School Information
Campus Location
Why Accreditation Is Important
When you attend an accredited institution, you are attending a school that has undergone a rigorous process that evaluates educational quality. It's not easy to become or remain an accredited institution. The rules and regulations are strict, precise and designed to protect students. Here are some of the benefits:
- A reliable indicator of quality
- Approved program of study
- Qualified instructors
- Recognition by employers nationwide