Iowa Central Community College
Health Science Division
Program Handbook
Medical Assistant
Program Philosophy
The philosophy of the Medical Assistant Program is consistent with the philosophy of Iowa Central Community College in that it embraces the principles of democracy, subscribes to the development of each student according to their abilities and interests, and believes in the aims and objectives of Iowa Central Community College. It is further believed that learning is a change in behavior, which occurs best in a congenial and democratic climate where the student is highly motivated and in which a concentrated effort is directed toward the student’s welfare. To bring about the desired behavioral changes in the student, selected activities and experiences under the direction of qualified faculty are necessary. Each student is provided with the opportunity to acquire the knowledge and to develop the competencies necessary for successful performance as a medical assistant in a physician’s office or clinic. Each student is viewed by the faculty as an individual with special needs. A diverse curriculum is provided to facilitate the development of a competent medical assistant.
Program Mission Statement
The Medical Assistant Program is committed to providing a quality education to students preparing for a career as a medical assistant.
Program Accreditation
The Iowa Central Community College Medical Assistant Diploma Program on the Fort Dodge campus is accredited by The Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) upon the recommendation of the Medical Assisting Education Review Board (MAERB).
• Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) 1361 Park Street
Clearwater, Florida 33756 (727) 210-2350
www.caahep.org
• Medical Assisting Education Review Board (MAERB) 20 North Wacker Drive, Suite 1575
Chicago, Illinois 60606 (800) 228-2262
Medical Assistant Job Description____________________________________________________
Medical assistants are multi-skilled health professionals specifically educated to work in ambulatory settings performing administrative and clinical duties. The practice of medical assisting directly influences the public’s health and well-being, and necessitates mastery of a complex body of knowledge and specialized skills. This requires both formal education and practical experience that serve as standards for entry into the profession.
Medical Assistant Program Description
The Medical Assistant Program at Iowa Central Community College prepares the student with theory and entry-level competence in the performance of administrative and clinical duties. The diploma program is conducted over a period of eleven months and includes two semesters of theory and lab followed by a summer practicum. The program begins in the fall and concludes in the summer. Students must earn a passing grade (as outlined in individual course syllabi) in all Medical Assistant Curriculum courses and meet the prerequisites to progress in the program.
After completion of the diploma program, students may opt to continue their education to obtain an AAS degree in Medical Assisting, completing an additional 13 credit hours of required coursework and 6 credit hours of elective coursework
Upon successful completion of all program requirements, the graduate is eligible to make application to take the CMA (AAMA) Certification Examination.
Program Goals and Learning Outcomes
Program goals and learning outcomes for the cognitive, psychomotor, and affective domains are consistent with and responsive to the demonstrated needs and expectations of the communities of interest served by the Iowa Central Community College Medical Assisting Program. They provide the basis for program planning, implementation, and evaluation. The program goals and learning outcomes are intended to be compatible with the mission of Iowa Central Community College, expectations of the communities of interest, and nationally accepted standards of roles and functions. The program goals and learning outcomes have been developed based on substantiated needs and expectations of area health care providers and employers, and the educational needs of students served by the program. To ensure that the program remains responsive to changes in the needs and/or expectations of its’ communities of interest, the program goals and learning outcomes are created and/or revised annually by advisory board members during the spring meeting. The program personnel identify and respond to changes in the needs and/or expectations of the communities of interest.
Program Goals:
1. Prepare competent entry-level medical assistants in the cognitive (knowledge), psychomotor (skills), and affective (behavior) learning domains.
2. Provide academic assessment of critical thinking, effective communication, and personal responsibility.
3. Serve the needs of the communities of interest through continuous program assessment and improvement.
4. Meet or exceed all Medical Assisting Education Review Board (MAERB) established thresholds for outcome assessment in medical assisting programs accredited by the Commission on
Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP).
Assessment of Program Goals:
The program annually assesses its effectiveness in achieving stated program goals and expected learning outcomes for the cognitive, psychomotor, and affective domains using various evaluation tools developed by the Medical Assisting Education Review Board (MAERB). Program goals and learning outcomes are reviewed annually by the Science, Health, and Human Services Division and the Medical Assistant Program Advisory Board, and are revised as needed based on evaluations and feedback.
Reporting:
Program goals and learning outcomes are made available to perspective students upon request. The program also submits outcome data for the MAERB Annual Report.
Program Application Procedure______________________________________________________
1. Complete an ICCC application.
2. Request an official high school transcript or GED scores (send to the ICCC Admissions Office on the Fort Dodge Campus).
3. Request an official college transcript if applicable for any colleges previously attended (send to the ICCC Admissions Office on the Fort Dodge Campus).
4. Arrange to take the Compass or ASSET test if ACT was not previously taken. 5. Arrange to meet with the Medical Assistant Program Coordinator.
Program Admission Criteria
• Minimum of a high school diploma (GPA ≥ 2.5), GED (score ≥ 550), or eight hours of college credit (GPA ≥ 2.0).
• ACT scores (writing ≥ 18, reading ≥ 18, math ≥ 18); COMPASS scores (writing ≥ 65, reading ≥ 80, and pre-algebra ≥ 39 or algebra ≥ 46); or ASSET scores of ≥ 40 in each category (writing, reading, and numeric).
• Previous college credit, if applicable (GPA ≥ 2.0).
• Documentation of the ability to type 35 words per minute with three errors or less during a three-minute timing or completion of Introduction to Keyboarding (ADM 105) obtaining at least a “B” in the course.
• Interview with the Medical Assistant Program Coordinator.
Early application to the program is encouraged. Twenty-five students are accepted each fall. The Program Coordinator grants acceptance to the first 25 students that meet the above admission criteria. Applicants are not “accepted” into the program until ALL of the admission criteria have been completed.
Additional Program Requirements (completed by accepted students before Practicum)
• Pre-Entrance Medical Record form.
• Criminal Background and Adult/Dependent Abuse Checks. Criminal convictions or documented history of abuse may prevent students from being accepted to a practicum site, thus preventing completion of the program. Students who have been found guilty of a felony, or pleaded guilty to a felony, are not eligible for the AAMA (CMA) Certification Examination. The certifying board may grant a waiver based on mitigating circumstances. Any student with a felony conviction is advised to contact the AAMA prior to beginning the program. It is highly recommended that any student with knowledge of his or her own criminal or abuse history meet with the program coordinator prior to beginning the program to discuss his or her options in health care.
• Current Provider Level CPR and First Aid Certification obtained through The American Red Cross, The American Heart Association, The American Safety and Health Institute, or The National Safety Institute. Certification must remain current throughout the duration of the program including practicum.
Estimated Program Costs
Additional program cost for full-time students
Item 1st Semester 2nd Semester Summer Session Total Books 650.00 150.00 200.00 1000.00 Lab Supplies:
White lab coat, watch, Medical Assistant Supply Kit (purchased from ICCC Bookstore)
200.00 0 0 200.00
Mandatory Child and Dependent Adult Reporter Training and Certification
10.00 10.00
Practicum Supplies:
uniform shirts (2), uniform pants (2), shoes
0 0 150.00 150.00
CPR & First Aid Certification 75.00 0 0 75.00
Graduation Fee 0 25.00 0 25.00
Certification Exam Application Fee 0 125.00 0 125.00
Class Pictures 0 0 15.00 15.00
TOTALS $935.00 $300.00 $ 365.00 $1600.00
• Tuition and student fees are not included in the estimate of program costs. They are available for students to review at www.iowacentral.edu
• The cost for the required physical examination and any required immunizations vary and are not included in the estimate of program costs.
• The cost of the criminal background and adult/dependent abuse check varies, and is not included in the estimate of program costs.
• The cost of travel to the practicum site is the student's responsibility and is not included in the estimate of program costs. Students will be assigned to a practicum site that may require up to 60 miles of travel one way.
Advising
Students are assigned an advisor according to the area of study they have chosen. The advisor for all medical assistant students is the Medical Assistant Program Coordinator. A file for each student enrolled in the Medical Assistant Program is maintained in a locked file in the Program Coordinator’s office. The file contains documents pertaining to the students’ program compliance and advisement.
Transfer of Credits, Advanced Standing, and Experiential Learning
Transfer of Credits: Students wishing to transfer into the Iowa Central Community College Medical Assisting Program from another college must have their transcript evaluated by the Program
Coordinator and the Iowa Central Community College Registrar. To have a transcript evaluated, the student must request that an official transcript from each college attended be sent to the Iowa Central Community College Registrar. The student’s overall GPA and courses that have been completed elsewhere are evaluated. Courses completed previously must be of comparable content, semester hours, and clock hours. The length of time since the coursework was completed is also considered. Medical Assistant Program Curriculum Courses taken elsewhere will not be accepted due to the variation of organization within each individual medical assisting program and documentation of competencies required.
Advanced Standing: Testing for advanced standing is available for HSC 113 Medical Terminology. If a student wishes to obtain advanced standing, he or she needs to indicate this to the Dean of Science, Health, and Human Services who will provide the student with an application form. The student should then take the form to the Student Success Center and pay a $50 application fee. The course syllabus can be made available to the student upon request to assist in preparation for the examination. The student is given the comprehensive examination on the scheduled date. After the examination is scored, the Dean of Science, Health, and Human Services receives the result and forwards the application to the Program Coordinator and Vice President of Instruction. The Dean of Science, Health, and Human Services establishes the minimum passing score. The Iowa Central Community College Registrar then accepts the form.
• If the student passes the examination a grade of “T” will be placed on the student’s permanent record, and credits obtained will meet Iowa Central graduation requirements
• Advanced Standing credit is place on the transcript after the student has completed 12 hours of credit at Iowa Central.
Experiential Learning: Credit for experiential learning is not granted in the Medical Assistant Program.
College Level Examination Program (CLEP)
Composition I (ENG 105) is a requirement for a student seeking a diploma. Both Composition I (ENG 105) and Composition II (ENG 106) are requirements for a student seeking an AAS degree. Iowa Central Community College offers students that have not enrolled in either course the
opportunity to “test out” of these courses by taking a Composition CLEP test to prove competency. There is a non-refundable fee for this exam. More information on CLEP is available at the Student Success Center.
Curriculum
The Medical Assistant Program Curriculum ensures the achievement of program goals and learning outcomes. Instruction during classroom, laboratory, and clinical activities is appropriately sequenced to provide a logical progression of learning. The curriculum is designed so that the cognitive content is taught prior to psychomotor and affective domains and that no psychomotor or affective domain objectives are performed in practicum prior to demonstration of competency in the classroom or lab. Instruction is based on clearly written course syllabi that include a course description, course
objectives, methods of evaluation, a topic outline, and competencies required for graduation. (See Core Curriculum).
Extended Program: Students may extend the diploma program with an individual curriculum plan as determined by the student and Program Coordinator. The following medical assistant courses may be taken in advance of acceptance into the program: MAP 542 The Human Body in Health and Disease I, HSC 113 Medical Terminology, ENG 105 Composition I, and MAP 555 The Human Body in Health and Disease II. This extended plan meets the needs of students who may be unable to attend full time or selected students who, due to scholastic challenges, receive a recommendation to extend the program. Enrollment in extended courses does NOT guarantee acceptance into the Medical Assistant Program.
Curriculum: Program of Study (Diploma) First Semester
MAP 542 The Human Body in Health & Disease 3.0
MAP 322 Examination Room Techniques I 3.5
MAP 221 Medical Laboratory Procedures I 1.5
MAP 115 Medical Office Management I 6.0
HSC 113 Medical Terminology * 2.0
MAP 401 Medical Law and Ethics 1.0
MAP 127 Medical Office Computer Applications 1.0
Total Semester Hours 18.0
Second Semester
MAP 555 The Human Body in Health & Disease II 5.0
MAP 324 Examination Room Techniques II 4.5
MAP 226 Medical Laboratory Procedures II 1.5
MAP 118 Medical Office Management II 4.0
MAP 130 Medical Transcription 1.0
MAP 435 Interpersonal Relations in Healthcare 2.0
Total Semester Hours 18.0
Summer Semester
MAP 614 Practicum 4.5
ENG 105 Composition I 3.0
Total Semester Hours 7.5
*Advanced Standing test out option is available. See Dean of Science, Health, and Human Services or Program Coordinator for more information.
Curriculum: Program of Study (AAS Degree)__________________________________________
After completion of the diploma program, students may opt to continue their education by obtaining an AAS degree in Medical Assisting, completing an additional 13 credit hours of required
coursework and 6 credit hours of elective coursework. Required coursework:
PSY 111 Introduction to Psychology 3.0
PSY 121 Developmental Psychology 3.0 ENG 106 Composition II 3.0 BIO 168 Human Anatomy and Physiology I w/lab 4.0
Elective coursework:Elective courses that are acceptedincludecourses with EMS, PNN, ADN, DHY, MLT, RAD, or MTR prefixes, any course listed on the ICCC AA sheet, or any other course that receives prior approval from the Program Coordinator.
Curriculum: Fall Semester
Course ID Course Weekly Contact
Hours
Semester Clock Hours
Credit Hours MAP 542 The Human
Body in Health and Diseases I 4 72 3.0 MAP 322 Examination Room Techniques I 4 72 3.5 MAP 221 Medical Laboratory Procedures I 2 36 1.5
MAP 115 Medical Office Management I
7 126 6.0
HSC 113 Medical
Terminology
2 36 2.0
MAP 401 Medical Law and Ethics
1 18 1.0
MAP 127 Medical Office Computer Applications
2 36 1.0
Curriculum: Spring Semester
Course ID Course Weekly Contact
Hours
Semester Clock Hours
Credit Hours
MAP 555 The Human
Body in Health and Disease II 6 108 5.0 MAP 324 Examination Room Techniques II 5 90 4.5 MAP 226 Medical Laboratory Procedures II 2 36 1.5
MAP 118 Medical Office Management II 5 90 4.0 MAP 130 Medical Transcription 2 36 1.0 MAP 435 Interpersonal Relations in Healthcare 2 36 2.0
Curriculum: Summer Session
MAP 614 Practicum 36 288 4.5
Curriculum: Course Descriptions_____________________________________________________ MAP 542:
This course includes a study of the anatomy and physiology of each body system and common pathology related to each system. The course begins with a study of the structural organization of the human body and then proceeds with a comprehensive study of the cardiovascular system and
lymphatic system. Common pathology related to these systems is studied that includes common signs and symptoms, etiology, methods of diagnosis, and treatment options. The interaction that occurs between systems and changes to the structure and function that occur across the life span within each system are identified. The course encourages the student to demonstrate critical thinking based on knowledge of academic subject matter required for competence in the medical assisting profession. Students will learn to incorporate the cognitive knowledge in performance of the psychomotor and affective domains in their practice as medical assistants in providing patient care. This course is the first course of a two-semester sequence. Other body systems are studied in MAP-555 The Human Body in Health and Disease II. Co-requisite: HSC-113 Medical Terminology.
MAP 555:
This course includes a study of the anatomy and physiology of each body system and common pathology related to each system. A comprehensive study of the integumentary system, skeletal system, muscular system, nervous system, sensory system, endocrine system, respiratory system, digestive system, urinary system, and reproductive system is included. Common pathology related to these systems is studied that includes common signs and symptoms, etiology, methods of diagnosis, and treatment options. The interaction that occurs between systems and changes to the structure and function that occur across the life span within each system are identified. The course encourages the student to demonstrate critical thinking based on knowledge of academic subject matter required for competence in the medical assisting profession. Students will learn to incorporate the cognitive knowledge in performance of the psychomotor and affective domains in their practice as medical assistants in providing patient care. Pre-requisite: Successful completion of MAP-542 The Human Body in Health and Disease I with a "C" or better.
MAP 322:
This course presents an introduction to basic clinical procedures performed in ambulatory health care settings. The course encourages the student to demonstrate critical thinking based on knowledge of academic subject matter required for competence in the medical assisting profession. Students will learn to incorporate the cognitive knowledge in performance of the psychomotor and affective
domains in their practice as medical assistants in providing patient care. This course is the first course of a two-semester sequence. Pre-requisite: Acceptance into the Medical Assistant Program.
MAP 324:
This course expands on basic clinical procedures presented in Examination Room Techniques I with emphasis on minor surgery, pharmacology, and more complex clinical procedures that may be performed in an ambulatory health care setting or specialty practice. The course encourages the student to demonstrate critical thinking based on knowledge of academic subject matter required for competence in the medical assisting profession. Students will learn to incorporate the cognitive knowledge in performance of the psychomotor and affective domains in their practice as medical assistants in providing patient care. Pre-requisite: Acceptance into the Medical Assistant Program and successful completion of MAP-322 Examination Room Techniques I with a "C" or better.
MAP 221:
This course presents basic medical laboratory procedures performed in ambulatory health care settings including the use of basic laboratory equipment, blood collection by capillary and
venipuncture, and basic laboratory tests performed. The course encourages the student to demonstrate critical thinking based on knowledge of academic subject matter required for competence in the medical assisting profession. Students will learn to incorporate the cognitive knowledge in performance of the psychomotor and affective domains in their practice as medical assistants in providing patient care. This course is the first course of a two-semester sequence. Pre-requisite: Acceptance into the Medical Assistant Program.
MAP 226:
This course expands on basic medical laboratory procedures presented in Medical Laboratory Procedures I with emphasis on chemistry, urinalysis, and microbiology. The course encourages the student to demonstrate critical thinking based on knowledge of academic subject matter required for competence in the medical assisting profession. Students will learn to incorporate the cognitive knowledge in performance of the psychomotor and affective domains in their practice as medical assistants in providing patient care. Pre-requisites: Acceptance into the Medical Assistant Program and successful completion of MAP-221 Medical Laboratory Procedures I with a "C" or better.
MAP 115:
This course presents the basic administrative procedures performed in ambulatory health care settings. The course encourages the student to demonstrate critical thinking based on knowledge of academic subject matter required for competence in the medical assisting profession. Students will learn to incorporate the cognitive knowledge in performance of the psychomotor and affective
domains in their practice as medical assistants in providing patient care. This course is the first course of a two-semester sequence. Pre-requisite: Acceptance into the Medical Assistant Program.
MAP 118:
This course expands on the basic administrative procedures presented in Medical Office Management I with emphasis on basic practice finances, managed care and insurance, and procedural and
diagnostic coding. The course encourages the student to demonstrate critical thinking based on knowledge of academic subject matter required for competence in the medical assisting profession. Students will learn to incorporate the cognitive knowledge in performance of the psychomotor and affective domains in their practice as medical assistants in providing patient care. Pre-requisite: Acceptance into the Medical Assistant Program and successful completion of MAP-115 Medical Office Management I with a "C" or better.
HSC 113:
The student will study terminology of the human body systems in more depth than HSC-112 Medical Terminology. The emphasis will be on recognition and functional vocabulary related to medical science. Definitions, standard abbreviations, pronunciations, correct spelling, will be included. Students with prior experience in a health field may elect to "test out" of medical terminology. See Health Science Department Chair for additional information.
MAP 401:
This course presents legal and ethical considerations pertaining to practice in an ambulatory health care setting. The course encourages the student to demonstrate critical thinking based on knowledge of academic subject matter required for competence in the medical assisting profession. Students will learn to incorporate the cognitive knowledge in performance of the psychomotor and affective
domains in their practice as medical assistants in providing patient care. Pre-requisite: Acceptance into the Medical Assistant Program.
MAP 127:
This course presents computerized management of an ambulatory health care setting. The course encourages the student to demonstrate critical thinking based on knowledge of academic subject matter required for competence in the medical assisting profession. Students will learn to incorporate the cognitive knowledge in performance of the psychomotor and affective domains in their practice as medical assistants in providing patient care. Pre-requisite: Acceptance into the Medical Assistant Program.
MAP 130:
This course provides the student with working knowledge of the transcription of medical reports on the computer. Medical reports will be transcribed from individual case studies that include history and physical examinations, radiology reports, operative reports, pathology reports, discharge summaries and request for consultation. The course encourages the student to demonstrate critical thinking based on knowledge of academic subject matter required for competence in the medical assisting profession. Students will learn to incorporate the cognitive knowledge gained in this course in the performance of the psychomotor and affective domains in their future practice as medical assistants providing patient care. Pre-requisites: Acceptance into the Medical Assistant Program and successful completion of MAP-115 Medical Office Management I with a "C" or better.
MAP 435:
This course presents concepts of effective communication necessary for caring for patients in an ambulatory health care setting. The course encourages the student to demonstrate critical thinking based on knowledge of academic subject matter required for competence in the medical assisting profession. Students will learn to incorporate the cognitive knowledge in performance of the psychomotor and affective domains in their practice as medical assistants in providing patient care. Pre-requisite: Acceptance into the Medical Assistant Program.
MAP 614:
The course provides the student with a supervised practicum in an ambulatory health care setting, performing psychomotor and affective competencies. The course encourages the student to demonstrate critical thinking based on knowledge of academic subject matter required for competence in the medical assisting profession. Students will learn to incorporate the cognitive knowledge in performance of the psychomotor and affective domains in their practice as medical assistants in providing patient care. Pre-requisite: Successful completion all Medical Assistant curriculum courses (with the exception of ENG-105 Composition I) with a "C" or better. Co-requisite: ENG-105 Composition I.
ENG 105:
This course focuses on the process of writing expressive and informative prose, incorporating oral, visual and electronic modes. It introduces research skills and critical thinking skills.
Core Curriculum for Medical Assistants
Medical Assisting Education Review Board (MAERB) I. Anatomy & Physiology (Cognitive)
1. Describe structural organization of the human body 2. Identify body systems
3. Describe body planes, directional terms, quadrants, and cavities 4. List major organs in each body system
5. Describe the normal function of each body system 6. Identify common pathology related to each body system
7. Analyze pathology as it relates to the interaction of body systems
8. Discuss implications for disease and disability when homeostasis is not maintained 9. Describe implications for treatment related to pathology
10. Compare body structure and function of the human body across the life span
11. Identify the classifications of medications, including desired effects, side effects, and adverse reactions
12. Describe the relationship between anatomy and physiology of all body systems and medications used for treatment in each
I. Anatomy & Physiology (Psychomotor)
1. Obtain vital signs 2. Perform venipuncture 3. Perform capillary puncture
4. Perform pulmonary function testing 5. Perform electrocardiography
6. Perform patient screening using established protocols
7. Select proper sites for administering parenteral medication 8. Administer oral medications
9. Administer parenteral (excluding IV) medications 10. Assist physician with patient care
11. Perform quality control measures 12. Perform hematology testing 13. Perform chemistry testing 14. Perform urinalysis
15. Perform immunology testing 16. Screen test results
I. Anatomy & Physiology (Affective)
1. Apply critical thinking skills in performing patient assessment and care 2. Use language/verbal skills that enable patients’ understanding
3. Demonstrate respect for diversity in approaching patients and families
II. Applied Mathematics (Cognitive)
1. Demonstrate knowledge of basic math computations 2. Apply mathematical computations to solve equations 3. Identify measurement systems
4. Define basic units of measurement in metric, apothecary, and household systems 5. Convert among measurement systems
7. Analyze charts, graphs, and/or tables in the interpretation of healthcare results
II. Applied Mathematics (Psychomotor)
1. Prepare proper dosages of medication for administration 2. Maintain laboratory test results using flow sheets
3. Maintain growth charts
II. Applied Mathematics (Affective)
1. Verify ordered doses/dosages prior to administration 2. Distinguish between normal and abnormal test results
III. Applied Microbiology/Infection Control (Cognitive)
1. Describe the infection cycle, including the infectious agent, reservoir, susceptible host, means of transmission, portals of entry, and portals of exit
2. Define asepsis
3. Discuss infection control procedures
4. Identify personal safety precautions as established by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)
5. List major types of infectious agents
6. Compare different methods of controlling the growth of microorganisms 7. Match types and uses of personal protective equipment (PPE)
8. Differentiate between medical and surgical asepsis used in ambulatory care settings, identifying when each is appropriate
9. Discuss quality control issues related to handling microbiological specimens 10. Identify disease processes that are indications for CLIA waived tests
11. Describe Standard Precautions, including: a. Transmission based precautions
b. Purpose
c. Activities regulated
12. Discuss the application of Standard Precautions with regard to: a. All body fluids, secretions and excretions
b. Blood
c. Non-intact skin d. Mucous membranes
13. Identify the role of the Center for Disease Control (CDC) regulations in healthcare settings.
III. Applied Microbiology/Infection Control (Psychomotor)
1. Participate in training on Standard Precautions 2. Practice Standard Precautions
3. Select appropriate barrier/personal protective equipment (PPE) for potentially infectious situations
4. Perform handwashing
5. Prepare items for autoclaving 6. Perform sterilization procedures
7. Obtain specimens for microbiological testing 8. Perform CLIA waived microbiology testing
III. Applied Microbiology/Infection Control (Affective)
1. Display sensitivity to patient rights and feelings in collecting specimens 2. Explain the rationale for performance of a procedure to the patient
3. Show awareness of patients’ concerns regarding their perceptions related to the procedure being performed
IV. Concepts of Effective Communication (Cognitive)
1. Identify styles and types of verbal communication 2. Identify nonverbal communication
3. Recognize communication barriers
4. Identify techniques for overcoming communication barriers
5. Recognize the elements of oral communication using a sender-receiver process 6. Differentiate between subjective and objective information
7. Identify resources and adaptations that are required based on individual needs, i.e., culture and environment, developmental life stage, language, and physical threats to communication
8. Recognize elements of fundamental writing skills
9. Discuss applications of electronic technology in effective communication 10. Diagram medical terms, labeling the word parts
11. Define both medical terms and abbreviations related to all body systems 12. Organize technical information and summaries
13. Identify the role of self-boundaries in the health care environment
14. Recognize the role of patient advocacy in the practice of medical assisting 15. Discuss the role of assertiveness in effective professional communication 16. Differentiate between adaptive and nonadaptive
coping mechanisms
IV. Concepts of Effective Communication (Psychomotor)
1. Use reflection, restatement and clarification techniques to obtain a patient history 2. Report relevant information to others succinctly and accurately
3. Use medical terminology, pronouncing medical terms correctly, to communicate information, patient history, data and observations
4. Explain general office policies
5. Instruct patients according to their needs to promote health maintenance and disease prevention
6. Prepare a patient for procedures and/or treatments 7. Demonstrate telephone techniques
8. Document patient care 9. Document patient education
10. Compose professional/business letters 11. Respond to nonverbal communication
12. Develop and maintain a current list of community resources related to patients’ healthcare needs
13. Advocate on behalf of patients
IV. Concepts of Effective Communication (Affective)
1. Demonstrate empathy in communicating with patients, family, and staff 2. Apply active listening skills
3. Use appropriate body language and other nonverbal skills in communicating with patients, family, and staff
4. Demonstrate awareness of the territorial boundaries of the person with whom communicating
5. Demonstrate sensitivity appropriate to the message being delivered
6. Demonstrate awareness of how an individual’s personal appearance affects anticipated responses
7. Demonstrate recognition of the patient’s level of understanding in communications 8. Analyze communications in providing appropriate responses/ feedback
9. Recognize and protect personal boundaries in communicating with others
10. Demonstrate respect for individual diversity, incorporating awareness of one’s own biases in areas including gender, race, religion, age, and economic status
V. Administrative Functions (Cognitive)
1. Discuss pros and cons of various types of appointment management systems 2. Describe scheduling guidelines
3. Recognize office policies and protocols for handling appointments
4. Identify critical information required for scheduling patient admissions and/or procedures
5. Identify systems for organizing medical records
6. Describe various types of content maintained in a patient’s medical record 7. Discuss pros and cons of various filing methods
8. Identify both equipment and supplies needed for filing medical records 9. Describe indexing rules
10. Discuss filing procedures
11. Discuss principles of using Electronic Medical Record (EMR) 12. Identify types of records common to the healthcare setting 13. Identify time management principles
14. Discuss the importance of routine maintenance of office equipment
V. Administrative Functions (Psychomotor)
1. Manage appointment schedule, using established priorities 2. Schedule patient admissions and/or procedures
3. Organize a patient’s medical record 4. File medical records
5. Execute data management using electronic healthcare records such as the EMR 6. Use office hardware and software to maintain office systems
7. Use internet to access information related to the medical office 8. Maintain organization by filing
9. Perform routine maintenance of office equipment with documentation 10. Perform an office inventory
V. Administrative Functions (Affective)
1. Consider staff needs and limitations in establishment of a filing system 2. Implement time management principles to maintain effective office function
VI. Basic Practice Finances (Cognitive)
1. Explain basic bookkeeping computations
2. Differentiate between bookkeeping and accounting 3. Describe banking procedures
4. Discuss precautions for accepting checks 5. Compare types of endorsement
7. Compare manual and computerized bookkeeping systems used in ambulatory healthcare
8. Describe common periodic financial reports 9. Explain both billing and payment options
10. Identify procedure for preparing patient accounts 11. Discuss procedures for collecting outstanding accounts
12. Describe the impact of both the Fair Debt Collection Act and the Federal Truth in Lending Act of 1968 as they apply to collections
13. Discuss types of adjustments that may be made to a patient’s account
VI. Basic Practice Finances (Psychomotor)
1. Prepare a bank deposit
2. Perform accounts receivable procedures, including: a. Post entries on a day sheet
b. Perform billing procedures c. Perform collection procedures d. Post adjustments
e. Process a credit balance f. Process refunds
g. Post non-sufficient fund (NSF) checks. h. Post collection agency payments.
3. Utilize computerized office billing systems
VI. Basic Practice Finances (Affective)
1. Demonstrate sensitivity and professionalism in handling accounts receivable activities with clients
VII. Managed Care/Insurance (Cognitive)
1. Identify types of insurance plans 2. Identify models of managed care
3. Discuss workers’ compensation as it applies to patients
4. Describe procedures for implementing both managed care and insurance plans 5. Discuss utilization review principles
6. Discuss referral process for patients in a managed care program 7. Describe how guidelines are used in processing an insurance claim
8. Compare processes for filing insurance claims both manually and electronically 9. Describe guidelines for third-party claims
10. Discuss types of physician fee schedules 11. Describe the concept of RBRVS
12. Define Diagnosis-Related Groups (DRGs)
VII. Managed Care/Insurance (Psychomotor)
1. Apply both managed care policies and procedures 2. Apply third party guidelines
3. Complete insurance claim forms
4. Obtain precertification, including documentation 5. Obtain preauthorization, including documentation 6. Verify eligibility for managed care services
VII. Managed Care/Insurance (Affective)
1. Demonstrate assertive communication with managed care and/or insurance providers 2. Demonstrate sensitivity in communicating with both providers and patients
3. Communicate in language the patient can understand regarding managed care and insurance plans
VIII. Procedural and Diagnostic Coding (Cognitive)
1. Describe how to use the most current procedural coding system 2. Define upcoding and why it should be avoided
3. Describe how to use the most current diagnostic coding classification system 4. Describe how to use the most current HCPCS coding
VIII. Procedural and Diagnostic Coding (Psychomotor)
1. Perform procedural coding 2. Perform diagnostic coding
VIII. Procedural and Diagnostic Coding (Affective)
1. Work with physician to achieve the maximum reimbursement
IX. Legal Implications (Cognitive)
1. Discuss legal scope of practice for medical assistants
2. Explore issue of confidentiality as it applies to the medical assistant
3. Describe the implications of HIPAA for the medical assistant in various medical settings
4. Summarize the Patient Bill of Rights
5. Discuss licensure and certification as it applies to healthcare providers 6. Describe liability, professional, personal injury, and third party insurance
7. Compare and contrast physician and medical assistant roles in terms of standard of care
8. Compare criminal and civil law as it applies to the practicing medical assistant 9. Provide an example of tort law as it would apply to a medical assistant
10. Explain how the following impact the medical assistant’s practice and give examples
a. Negligence b. Malpractice
c. Statute of Limitations d. Good Samaritan Act(s) e. Uniform Anatomical Gift Act f. Living will/Advanced directives g. Medical durable power of attorney
11. Identify how the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) applies to the medical assisting profession
12. List and discuss legal and illegal interview questions
13. Discuss all levels of governmental legislation and regulation as they apply to medical assisting practice, including FDA and DEA
regulations
14. Describe the process to follow if an error is made in patient care
IX. Legal Implications (Psychomotor)
1. Respond to issues of confidentiality 2. Perform within scope of practice
3. Apply HIPAA rules in regard to privacy/release of information 4. Practice within the standard of care for a medical assistant
5. Incorporate the Patient’s Bill of Rights into personal practice and medical office policies and procedures
6. Complete an incident report
7. Document accurately in the patient record
8. Apply local, state and federal health care legislation and regulation appropriate to the medical assisting practice setting
IX. Legal Implications (Affective)
1. Demonstrate sensitivity to patient rights
2. Demonstrate awareness of the consequences of not working within the legal scope of practice
3. Recognize the importance of local, state, and federal legislation and regulations in the practice setting
X. Ethical Considerations (Cognitive)
1. Differentiate between legal, ethical, and moral issues affecting healthcare 2. Compare personal, professional, and organizational ethics
3. Discuss the role of cultural, social, and ethnic diversity in ethical performance of medical assisting practice
4. Identify where to report illegal and/or unsafe activities and behaviors that affect health, safety and welfare of others.
5. Identify the effect personal ethics may have on professional performance
X. Ethical Considerations (Psychomotor)
1. Report illegal and/or unsafe activities and behaviors that affect health, safety, and welfare of others to proper authorities
2. Develop a plan for separation of personal and professional ethics
X. Ethical Considerations (Affective)
1. Apply ethical behaviors, including honesty/integrity in performance of medical assisting practice
2. Examine the impact personal ethics and morals may have on the individual’s practice 3. Demonstrate awareness of diversity in providing patient care
XI. Protective Practices (Cognitive)
1. Describe personal protective equipment
2. Identify safety techniques that can be used to prevent accidents and maintain a safe work environment
3. Describe the importance of Materials Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) in a healthcare setting
4. Identify safety signs, symbols, and labels
5. State principles and steps of professional/provider CPR 6. Describe basic principles of first aid
7. Describe fundamental principles for evacuation of a healthcare setting 8. Discuss fire safety issues in a healthcare environment
9. Discuss requirements for responding to hazardous material disposal 10. Identify principles of body mechanics and ergonomics
11. Discuss critical elements of an emergency plan for response to a natural disaster or other emergency
12. Identify emergency preparedness plans in your community
13. Discuss potential role(s) of the medical assistant in emergency preparedness
XI. Protective Practices (Psychomotor)
1. Comply with safety signs, symbols, and labels
2. Evaluate the work environment to identify safe vs. unsafe working conditions 3. Develop a personal (patient and employee) safety plan
4. Develop an environmental safety plan
5. Demonstrate proper use of the following equipment: a. Eyewash
b. Fire extinguishers
c. Sharps disposal containers
6. Participate in a mock environmental exposure event with documentation of steps taken
7. Explain an evacuation plan for a physician’s office
8. Demonstrate methods of fire prevention in the healthcare setting 9. Maintain provider/professional level CPR certification
10. Perform first aid procedures 11. Use proper body mechanics
12. Maintain a current list of community resources for emergency preparedness
XI. Protective Practices (Affective)
1. Recognize the effects of stress on all persons involved in emergency situations 2. Demonstrate self-awareness in responding to emergency situations
Scholastic Requirements Students are required to:
1. Successfully complete all Medical Assisting Curriculum courses with a passing grade (as outlined in individual course syllabi), meeting all prerequisites to progress in the program.
2. Successful completion of practicum with a passing evaluation (as outlined in course syllabi). Continuation in the program depends upon the successful completion of all courses in the sequence identified. To qualify for practicum, the medical assistant student must have completed all Medical Assistant Curriculum courses with a passing grade (as outlined in individual course syllabi) and demonstrate entry-level competency in all competencies identified.
Student Evaluation and Assessment
Grading Policy and Pass Score for Cognitive Domain Objectives: All cognitive objectives are graded using the percentages listed below. Cognitive objective assessments can be subject to an automatic deduction (amount varies by instructor) in the event of unexcused absence.
A 92-100%
B 84-91.9%
C 76-83.9% (Pass score for cognitive domain objectives is ≥ 76%)
D 70-75.9%
F 69.9 % ↓
Grading Policy and Pass Score for Psychomotor and Affective Objectives: All psychomotor and affective domain competencies have a predetermined minimal passing score (this varies and is indicated on each individual evaluation sheet). Evaluation sheets include the performance objective, anticipated outcome, conditions, standards (time limit), and minimal satisfactory score. Students are given three opportunities to demonstrate competency, however the initial score for each is recorded as the grade. Students must demonstrate satisfactory competency in ALL psychomotor and affective domain objectives (competencies) listed on the Master Competency List. If the student fails to demonstrate competency, the course that contains the competency will not be considered passing and the student will receive an “F” for the course. Psychomotor and affective domain objectives may also be subject to an automatic deduction (amount varies by instructor) in the event of unexcused absence. Grades are available for students to check throughout the semester online using WebAdvisor. The grading scale for all Medical Assistant Curriculum Courses (with the exception of Composition I and Practicum) is determined using the percentages below.
A 92-100% 4.00 GPA
B 84-91.9% 3.00 GPA
C 76-83.9% 2.00 GPA
D 70-75.9% 1.00 GPA
System for Tracking Achievement and Retention (STAR)System is a
computerized system that gives students feedback about their progress. E-mails can be sent to students if their academic progress and attendance are "not satisfactory" in any courses, informing students about potential problems early.
Classroom Policies
• Class location: Classrooms at Iowa Central Community College are listed by building code followed by a number or letter. Classes within the Medical Assistant Program (with the exception of Composition I) meet on the second floor of the BHS Building.
• Personal belongings: A student’s personal belongings are the responsibility of that student when left in the classroom. Lockers are available for student use. Locks may be purchased by the student for use during the program but must be removed at the end of the program.
• Food: No food or drink is allowed in laboratory sessions.
• Computers: Computers are available at each student desk in the medical assistant classroom. Computers should remain off during class time unless they are actively being used for course work. Students are not to access Facebook during class. If a student uses the computer in an inappropriate manner (including Facebook during class), he or she may be asked to leave class and counted absent (unexcused). Students are asked to shut down computers completely at the end of use.
• Electronic Devices: Cell phones, pagers, timers, and similar devices are not to be operational during classroom, lab, or clinical times. If a student uses a cell phone during class or lab, he or she may be asked to leave class and counted absent (unexcused). Cell phones may be left on during class on vibrate/silent mode, on the desk in view of the instructor, if the student is expecting communication regarding an emergency and he/she has discussed this with the instructor prior to the start of class.
• Visitors: Students are not allowed to bring children to classrooms, labs, or hallways during class times. This is college policy.
• Breaks: Students are usually given a ten-minute break hourly during classes or labs that exceed an hour in length. Break times are at the instructor’s discretion.
• Smoking: The use of tobacco is prohibited in College facilities, College vehicles, or on College grounds, (This includes personal vehicles parked on college property).
Laboratory Policies
Laboratory sessions meet in BHS 209 and BHS 210.
Students need to purchase the Medical Assistant Supply Kit from the Iowa Central Bookstore
(contains a stethoscope, sphygmomanometer, penlight, Lister bandage scissors, and Kelly forceps), a white lab coat, a watch with a sweep second hand, and any additional lab supplies indicated in course syllabi. Students that do not have lab supplies may not be able to attend lab and will be marked absent (unexcused).
Students must be prepared to perform competencies as scheduled in lab. Students are to assist in maintaining a clean and safe environment by cleaning and returning supplies/equipment to storage areas, cleaning workstations, and following Standard Precautions and OSHA guidelines. Eating, drinking, the application of cosmetics, or the application of contact lenses is prohibited in lab.
Students enrolled in Medical Laboratory Procedures I & II and Examination Room Techniques I & II will be performing invasive procedures (venipuncture, capillary puncture, and various types of injections) with a lab partner as part of the educational process and will be asked to review and sign a Release and Waiver of Liability form (see appendix).
Students are not permitted to operate program equipment or participate in any activity that has a potential for injury without an instructor present. Materials and supplies cannot be taken out of the classroom or laboratory setting.
Attendance
Attendance: A record of attendance is kept for each student utilizing WebAdvisor. It is the student’s responsibility to track the number of absences/tardies recorded in WebAdvisor. An error in the attendance record must be brought to the instructor’s attention within one week. Once a student has missed more than three scheduled classes, except for documented personal health reasons (requires a physician’s written note), the student will receive an F for the course. If a student arrives more than 10 minutes after the scheduled lecture/laboratory starting time or leaves before lecture/laboratory is dismissed, he/she will be considered absent.
Makeup work: It is the student’s responsibility to contact the instructor prior to the next scheduled course meeting, to discuss makeup work. Make up policies for exams, assignments, or daily work is determined by each course instructor. However, in most program courses, the following policies exist:
• Makeup examinations or assignments receive an automatic 10% deduction in the event of an unexcused absence. Assignments will receive 10% deduction for each day they are late.
• Student have one week to complete makeup examinations or assignments.
• Failure to complete make-up work in the timeframe designated by the instructor may result in the student receiving “0” on the evaluation.
Student Health
Health and immunization status: It is the student’s responsibility to inform the appropriate
instructors of any physical condition that could interfere with the safety of the student and/or patient during class, lab, or practicum. All students must have the Pre-Entrance Medical Record and required immunizations completed prior to beginning classes in the spring. The cost of the examination and any required immunization are the student’s responsibility. Students must report any change in their health status after the completion of these forms to the Program Coordinator. Iowa Community College has developed Core Performance Standards for all Health Science Programs (see appendix).
Accidents or injuries: Students assume full responsibility for their own accidents or injuries that may occur in the classroom, lab, or practicum settings. Students who sustain injuries will be
responsible for completing the required incident forms provided by Iowa Central Community College Medical Assistant Program and the medical office (if applicable). If an injury requires treatment, the student has the right to refuse treatment if they fill out and sign the waiver form. All injuries that occur in the lab or during practicum must be communicated to the Program Coordinator and medical office staff (if applicable), IMMEDIATELY!
Student Health Nurse: Student health is located in the Applied Science and Technology building. A registered nurse is available as a resource for the health concerns of students.
Counseling Services: Student-counseling services are available without charge, to currently registered students. Please see the ICCC Student Handbook for more specific information.
Student Liability and Malpractice Insurance: Students are covered with a liability and malpractice insurance policy, which is provided by the college. The cost of this insurance is included in the student’s college fees.
Technical Standards: Iowa Core Performance Standards for Health Care Career Programs:
Iowa Community College has developed the following Core Performance Standards for all applicants to Health Care Career Programs. These standards are based upon required abilities that are
compatible with effective performance in health care careers. Applicants unable to meet the Core Performance Standards are responsible for discussing the possibility of reasonable accommodations with the designated institutional office. Before final admission into a health career program,
applicants are responsible for providing medical and other documentation related to any disability and the appropriate accommodations needed to meet the Core Performance Standards. These materials must be submitted in accordance with the institution’s ADA Policy. The student is encouraged to meet with the Assistant Coordinator of Special Populations and the Dean of Science, Health, and Human Services.
CAPABILITY STANDARD SOME EXAMPLES OF NECESSARY ACTIVITIES (NOT ALL INCLUSIVE)
Cognitive-Perception
The ability to perceive events realistically, to think clearly and rationally, and to function appropriately in routine and stressful situations.
Identify changes in patient/client health status
Handle multiple priorities in stressful situations
Critical Thinking
Critical thinking ability sufficient for sound clinical judgement.
Identify cause-effective relationships in clinical situations
Develop plans of care
Interpersonal Interpersonal abilities sufficient to interact appropriately with individuals, families and groups from a variety of social, emotional, cultural and intellectual backgrounds.
Establish rapport with patients/clients and colleagues
Demonstrate high degree of patience
Manage a variety of patient/client expressions (anger,
fear, hostility) in a calm manner
Communication Communication abilities in English
sufficient for appropriate interaction with others in verbal and written form.
Read, understand, write and speak English
competently
Explain treatment procedures
Initiate health teaching
Document patient/client responses
Validate responses/messages with others
Mobility Ambulatory capability to sufficiently
maintain a center of gravity when met with an opposing force as in lifting, supporting, and/or transferring a patient/client.
The ability to propel wheelchairs, stretchers, etc., alone or with assistance, as available
Motor Skills Gross and fine motor abilities sufficient
to provide safe and effective care and documentation.
Position patients/clients
Reach, manipulate, and operate equipment,
instruments and supplies
Electronic documentation/keyboarding
Lift, (for nursing lift 30 lbs.), carry, push and pull at least 10 pounds
Perform CPR
Hearing Auditory ability sufficient to monitor and
assess, or document health needs.
Hears monitor alarms, emergency signals,
auscultatory sounds, cries for help
Hears telephone interactions/dictation
CAPABILITY
STANDARD
SOME EXAMPLES OF NECESSARY ACTIVITIES (NOT ALL INCLUSIVE)
Visual Visual ability sufficient for observation
and assessment necessary in patient/client care, accurate color discrimination.
Observes patient/client responses
Discriminates color changes
Accurately reads measurement on patient/client
related equipment
Tactile Tactile ability sufficient for physical
assessment, inclusive of size, shape, temperature and texture.
Performs palpation
Performs functions of physical examination and/or
those related to therapeutic intervention, e.g. insertion of a catheter
Activity Tolerance
The ability to tolerate lengthy periods of physical activity.
Move quickly and/or continuously
Tolerate long periods of standing and/or sitting
Environmental Ability to tolerate environmental
stressors.
Adapt to rotating shifts
Work with chemicals and detergents
Tolerate exposure to fumes and odors
Work in areas that are close and crowded
Scholarships
The Medical Assistant Program awards four Iowa Central Community College scholarships for $400.00 ($200.00 each semester). The Program Coordinator makes those selections.
Readmission
Students may re-enter the program at the point in the curriculum at which they withdrew based on space availability, admission criteria, and the approval of the program faculty and Program
Coordinator. Additional criteria that are considered before a student may re-enter includes reason for initial withdrawal, previous student behavior and attitude, and previous academic performance and attendance. Re-entry will be allowed one time after a failing grade has been received if the student repeats the course within one year.
Professional Organization
The professional organization for medical assistants is the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA). The local Chapter V AAMA meets each month in BHS 210 at 6:00 p.m. September-November and February-April. Student membership in the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA) and attendance at Local Chapter V meetings is encouraged and promotes opportunities for networking and professional development. Members of the Chapter V AAMA visit with students in September during the Fall Kick Off to discuss benefits to AAMA membership. The chapter offers the Area V Memorial Scholarship. The amount of this scholarship varies by year and is based in chapter fundraising results. AAMA members, at the Fall Kickoff, address details regarding this scholarship and will provide students a schedule of meetings.
Practicum
How practicum sites are established:
The Practicum Coordinator selects and approves appropriate practicum sites. Practicum sites are chosen based on their ability to provide students with a variety of meaningful experiences that parallel the content presented in the lecture and laboratory settings. Practicum sites are chosen based on their ability to be active in providing educational experiences (practicum students cannot be substituted for regular staff). Additional factors that are considered include: geographic convenience (medical offices located in Area V are utilized first; use of medical offices outside of Area V depends upon use by other medical assistant programs), preference of medical office personnel, medical office/student compatibility, student strengths and/or weaknesses, and potential for employment after graduation. Students who are currently employed by a medical office are not able to utilize their employer as a practicum site. The practicum site must be able to adequately safeguard the health and safety of patients, the student, and any faculty associated with the educational activities of the
student. Safeguards may include compliance with OSHA and CDC guidelines and/or any state, local, or institutional guidelines/policies related to health and safety. When an acceptable practicum
placement is located for each student, the medical office is contacted by the Program Coordinator. If the medical office is agreeable to having a practicum student, an Affiliation Agreement between Iowa Central Community College and the participating medical office is signed by both parties. The
Affiliation Agreement describes the relationship, roles, and responsibilities of both parties. An informational letter and the Practicum Course Syllabus are sent to the participating medical office. Students are informed of placement approximately 30 days prior to the beginning of practicum.
Evaluation of Students During Practicum:
The Practicum Coordinator assesses the student’s progress on at least two occasions during visits to the participating medical office. During each visit, the student’s progress is discussed with the student and medical office personnel. The Practicum Evaluation of Student form is reviewed at the initial and final visit. The student’s final grade for the course is determined based on the Practicum Evaluation of Student completed by the medical office personnel. Evaluation of the student is conducted on an ongoing basis (as competencies are completed), providing the student and program faculty with valid and timely indications of the student’s progress towards achievement of the competencies identified. Supervising medical office personnel complete the Practicum Evaluation of Student indicating to what degree the student was able to perform the identified tasks to a satisfactory level of competence. If the supervising medical office personnel determines the student’s performance on a competency to be unacceptable (graded 1 or 2), the Practicum Coordinator is notified of the deficiency. A conference is scheduled with the Medical Office Supervisor, Practicum Coordinator, and the student. The student is notified in writing of the deficiency and is given the opportunity to correct it. Students cannot pass Practicum with a failing final evaluation (any areas that remain unacceptable, graded 1 or 2). A grade of P (PASS) or F (FAIL) for the course, based on the Practicum Evaluation of Student, is recorded in the grade book and on the student transcript after the Program Coordinator receives documentation that the minimum hour requirement has been met (Practicum Hour Form signed by the student and Medical Office Supervisor).
Confidentiality
Medical assistant students have a responsibility to keep any patient or clinic information that the student becomes aware of through educational experiences confidential. Breeches of confidentiality violate the rights of patients and jeopardize the reputation of the medical facility and the Iowa Central Community College Medical Assistant Program. Any student who violates confidentiality may also be subject to legal charges. No discussion or acknowledgement of confidential patient information should ever occur outside of the medical setting, and should not involve individuals who are not directly involved in the patient’s care with a medical need to know the information discussed. Violations of this nature may result in disciplinary probation, suspension, or expulsion.
Graduation Requirements/Commencement
Students must earn a passing grade (as outlined in individual course syllabi) in all Medical Assistant curriculum courses to graduate.
Students should consult with their advisor each semester and perform a degree audit to monitor their progress toward graduation. Students who have transfer credit should verify that the credit is on the degree audit and the transcript after they have completed 12 hours of credit at Iowa Central.
The college graduation exercises are held at the conclusion of the academic college year in May. Medical assistant students take part in these exercises with all Iowa Central Community College graduates, even though they will not finish practicum for several weeks. This is the only public ceremony held. Students who intend to graduate in a particular semester are to complete a graduation declaration card when they enroll in courses for that semester. Graduation cards are filled out with an advisor or an admissions representative and submitted to the Student Records office in Fort Dodge or to a center office in Storm Lake or Webster City. There is a $25 fee for graduation that is used to defray the cost of gown, diploma and cover, tassel, etc.
A Diploma is awarded following successful completion of the entire AAMA-CAAHEP approved curriculum. An Associate in Applied Science Degree is awarded to the student successfully completing the prescribed Medical Assisting AAS curriculum. Total credits, grade point averages, account balances, and financial aid exit interviews are reviewed before degrees are placed on transcripts and diplomas are mailed.
National Certification Examination
The American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA) offers a certification examination to medical assistants who have completed a program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) or the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES). The CMA (AAMA) represents a Certified Medical Assistant who has been credentialed through the AAMA.
Graduates complete an application to take the exam and pay a $125.00 test fee. The AAMA will inform the candidate of his/her application status within 60 days of the examination application deadline. The candidate will receive a Scheduling Permit with instructions for making an appointment at a Prometric, Inc.® test center.
Certification is not required to work in the state of Iowa, but it is strongly encouraged as recognition of professional competence. Many area employers require employees to be certified.
Job Placement Services
Every effort is made to place student in practicum sites that are actively involved in hiring program graduates. Student are encouraged by the Practicum Coordinator to begin the job seeking process while still in practicum, at the students current practicum site if there is an opening or elsewhere. The Practicum Coordinator reviews student resumes and provides verbal feedback and additional written material to assist students with beginning the job seeking process. Students are given release time to interview for potential positions during practicum under certain circumstances. Program faculty provide job references and letters of recommendation for current students and/or recent graduates upon request.
Additional policies and procedures____________________________________________________
Please see the Iowa Central Community College Student Handbook for all policies not specifically discussed in this program handbook.
Any student who feels they may need academic accommodations should contact the Special Populations Coordinator early on in the semester. The Coordinator will verify documentation and coordinate appropriate and reasonable accommodations. Students must obtain a new accommodation notification each semester.
For information contact: Heather Lundberg
Special Populations Coordinator
