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Texts used in first-semester courses are written at the college level. These
texts are used as a central part of the coursework. Tests are based on a
combination of texts and lectures. In their first-term medical terminology
course, students begin to build a medical vocabulary; in various other
courses, they are introduced to common medical abbreviations and symbols.
In addition to their
texts, students will also use standard office references such as a
dictionary, medical references, and the Gregg Reference Manual. On the job
they will also use company procedure manuals and computer software manuals.
View more information on reading skills in the Medical Administrative Assistant program.
Communication skills are an essential part of this program. A speech course
is required in the fourth term. In-class speaking activities include
explanations of procedures, short oral reports, and team projects.
Interviewing, telephone techniques, and customer relations are taught in the
program and used extensively on the job. Good listening skills are vital to
success on the job, since there may be considerable interaction with
patients, and much information will be presented via dictation.
Students are expected to
possess strong English skills when they enter the program. In their
first-term Business English (ADM 157) course, they will review proper grammar,
spelling, and punctuation. These skills are applied as they compose business
letters, memos, and reports in the third-term Business Communication (ADM 154)
course and on the job. Depending on their work assignment, they may be asked
either to transcribe or to compose material. In either case, accuracy is
essential, as medical records are legal documents.
View more information on language skills in the Medical Administrative Assistant
program.
Business Math (BUS 112) is scheduled for the third term, although
students may choose to take the course earlier. Strong arithmetic skills are
essential for success in this course. In their Intro to Computer
Business Application (BCA 212) course, students will be working with spreadsheets which will
require them to create simple math formulas. In the program and on the job,
they will use an office calculator. They may also be required to set up work
schedules, handle medical insurance billing, and check documents for
mathematical accuracy. Accounting coursework is included in this program.
View more information on math skills in the Medical Administrative Assistant program.
Students must be able to follow logical sequences as they follow insurance
filing procedures, use computer software manuals, and receive instructions
from others. They must also be able to organize ideas logically when they
explain procedures to coworkers. They must be able to work independently,
knowing when to use their own problem-solving skills and when to ask for
help.
View more information on learning skills in the Medical Administrative Assistant
program.
In their first-term Intro to Computer Business Application course, students
will be introduced to word processing, spreadsheet, graphics, desktop
publishing, presentation, and data base programs. In subsequent terms, they
will develop proficiency and accuracy in using these applications. All of
these applications will be used extensively on the job.
View more information on computer skills in the Medical Administrative Assistant
program.
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