MEDICAL ASSISTING

Program Overview

Northwest State’s medical assisting program is a 2-year, associate degree program that includes classroom, lab and practicum experiences. Medical Assistants are trained in both clinical and administrative duties for a variety of healthcare settings. According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics, medical assisting is one of the nation’s fastest-growing careers. Advances in technology, a growing population of elderly Americans and an increasing number of outpatient facilities mean trained Medical Assistants are in demand.

The Medical Assisting program at Northwest State Community College meets the state education requirements in the state of Ohio. Northwest State Community College has not determined if the Medical Assisting program at Northwest State Community College meets the state education requirements in any other state, any U.S. Territory, or the District of Columbia.

 

About Medical Assistants

See links below for information:
  • What is a Medical Assistant?
  • What is a Certified Medical Assistant, and how do I earn the credential?
  • What is the job outlook for Medical Assistants?
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    Job Responsibilities

    Medical assistants are cross-trained to perform administrative and clinical duties, as evidenced by the Occupational Analysis of Medical Assistants. Below is a quick overview (duties vary from medical practice to medical practice depending on location, size, specialty, and state law)

     

    Clinical Duties

    May include, but not limited to:
  • Taking medical histories
  • Explaining treatment procedures to patients
  • Preparing patients for examinations
  • Assisting the physician during examinations
  • Collecting and preparing laboratory specimens
  • Performing basic laboratory tests
  • Instructing patients about medication and special diets
  • Preparing and administering medications, including by intramuscular, intradermal, and subcutaneous injections—including vaccinations/immunizations, as directed by a physician or other licensed provider (e.g., a nurse practitioner or physician assistant)
  • Transmitting prescription refills as directed
  • Phlebotomy
  • Taking electrocardiograms
  • Wound care and changing dressings
  •  

    Administrative Duties

    May include, but not limited to
  • Using computer applications
  • Answering telephones
  • Welcoming patients
  • Updating and filing patient medical records
  • Coding and filling out insurance forms
  • Scheduling appointments
  • Arranging for hospital admissions and laboratory services
  • Handling correspondence, billing, and bookkeeping
  •  

    Patient Liaison

    Medical assistants are instrumental in helping patients feel at ease in the physician’s office and often explain the physician's instructions.

     

    PCMH Team Member

    Medical assistants are essential members of the patient-centered medical home team. According to a survey by the Healthcare Intelligence Network, medical assistants ranked as one of the top five professionals necessary to the PCMH team.

     

    CMA (AAMA)® Certification

    Many employers of allied health personnel prefer, or even insist, that their medical assistants are CMA (AAMA) certified.

     

    Program Accreditation

    The medical assisting program at Northwest State Community College is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs www.caahep.org upon the recommendation of Medical Assisting Education Review Board (MAERB).

     

    Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs
    9355 - 113th St. N, #7709
    Seminole, FL 33775
    727-210-2350
    www.caahep.org

     

    Learn more about accreditation here:
    What is Accreditation and Why is it Important?

     

    Medical Assisting Uniforms

    Uniforms can be purchased using a credit card or financial aid. If you would like to use financial aid, select that option and include your N number in the box.

    Uniform shoes are not available from this site and should be purchased at the uniform shop of your choice. Shoes must be white leather or vinyl. For safety reasons, no holes or mesh are permitted.

    If you have questions or concerns regarding uniforms, contact the Division Office at 419.267.1246.

    Purchase medical assisting uniforms here

    Program Stats

     

    Exam Pass Rate

    2018
    100%

    2019
    100%

    2020
    100%

    2021
    80%

     

    Graduate Placement Rate

    2018
    100%

    2019
    100%

    2020
    100%

    2021
    100%

     

    Employer Satisfaction

    2018
    100%

    2019
    100%

    2020
    100%

    2021
    100%

    PROGRAM CLASS LIST

    Start on the pathway to your career at Northwest State Community College today!

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    Administrative Assistant

    Kristi Vondeylen
    kvondeylen@northweststate.edu
    419.267.1246