Medical Administrative Assistant
If you are business oriented with sound organizational abilities and enjoy multitasking, you can direct your interests toward a career in medical office administration and management. This program provides comprehensive instruction and a working knowledge of anatomy & physiology and medical office operations, including computer applications, electronic medical records (EMR), insurance billing, office triage, and telephone techniques. Directed study and specialized training build confidence as professional skills and management applications are refined for the busy medical practice and clinic.
The importance of human relations and effective communication skills as they apply to the patient & family, physicians, and staff are emphasized during training. Students will recognize the relevance of patient advocacy as it applies to the practice of this allied health specialty.
The professional Medical Administrative Assistant will apply medical language skills related to general and specialty practices, pharmacology, laboratory medicine, and diagnostic imaging. Knowledge of medical reports including histories and physicals, discharge summaries, and chart notes are incorporated into the program.
Interactive training and skill development in computer applications include Microsoft Word, Microsoft Office database, spreadsheets, EMR, and Internet literacy. Medical language skills are applied to accurately process and submit insurance claims utilizing the CPT, ICD-9, and HCPCS coding references. Thorough instruction is provided in the principles of medical insurance billing, managed care, and third-party claims. The organization and maintenance of patients’ medical records and filing systems are presented.
Medical office operations extend to procedures in managing appointment scheduling, accounts receivable/payable, banking, record keeping, collecting outstanding accounts, and business communications. Medical Law & Ethics provides insight into the scope of practice and the importance of patient confidentiality, HIPAA, and required documentation for the medical environment.
The proficient Medical Administrative Assistant is highly marketable for responsible career entry positions in medical offices, clinics, hospitals, or industry-related settings. Opportunities for career advancement are excellent.