Medical Assistant Course Descriptions
Beginning skill for use in the business/medical office, including computers, reception,
appointment scheduling, office mail, telephone skills, medical filing, medical coding
and insurance forms. (Formerly HCA 110.) Prerequisites: acceptance into the medical
assistant program or instructor signature.
Study of body structure and function of body systems and related disease commonly
associated with each system. Diagnostic and laboratory procedures used for diagnoses
are discussed throughout the course. (Formerly HCA 111.) Prerequisites: acceptance
into the medical assistant program or instructor signature.
Basic concepts of pharmacology, including basic drug categories and use of most commonly
prescribed medications in the medical office. Includes a review of math concepts related
to medications, dose calculations, administration principles, injection preparations
and site choice, and safety practices associated with medication administration. (Formerly
HCA 112.) Prerequisites: acceptance into the medical assistant program or instructor
signature.
Meets requirement of the AIDS Omnibus Bill passed by the Washington State legislature
regarding HIV/AIDS education for employees working in a health care setting. OSHA’s
bloodborne pathogens standard concerning universal precautions is emphasized. (Formerly
HCA 113.) Prerequisites: acceptance into the medical assistant program or instructor
signature.
Introduction to clinical procedures for the medical office, including taking a medical
history, exam room preparations, vital signs and measurements, assisting with minor
surgery, medical asepsis and infection control, universal precautions for blood and
body fluids, principles of rehabilitation and charting. (Formerly HCA 115.) Prerequisites:
acceptance into the medical assistant program or instructor signature.
Includes integrated computer applications and development of professional written
communication skills for use in the medical office, and principles of consumer relations.
(Formerly HCA 116.) Prerequisites: acceptance into the medical assistant program or
instructor signature.
Study of workplace legalities, including a basic overview of the legal system and
legal and ethical considerations for the medical assistant in the medical office.
Topics include medical records, management, medical contracts, concepts of health
care reform and workplace responsibilities, including confidentiality, informed consent
and patient rights. (Formerly HCA 118.) Prerequisites: acceptance into the medical
assistant program or instructor signature.
Develops advanced skill in the use of computer systems for office billing procedures,
including established accounts, accounts receivable and accounts payable, payroll
inventory control, collections, and purchasing. Explores the basic types of medical
insurance, study of claims processing and third-party reimbursement. (Formerly HCA
120.) Prerequisites: MA 110 or instructor signature.
Covers the principles of nutrition and dietary modifications as a form of treatment.
Develop clinical skills in the following areas: care of cardiac patients (including
EKGs), pediatrics, reproductive health, GI, pulmonary, ortho, neuro and EENT. (Formerly
HCA 125.) Prerequisites: acceptance in the medical assistant program, continued good
standing in program.
General introduction to the medical laboratory and use of the microscope. Topics of
study include principles of safe specimen collection, handling and testing, phlebotomy;
introduction to microbiology and hematology with special attention given to CLIA waived
testing, urinalysis, principles of safe medication administration, and care of the
diabetic patient. (Formerly HCA 135.) Prerequisites: acceptance in the medical assistant
program, continued good standing in program.
Application of knowledge and skill in an unpaid experience in a medical office (160
hours). (Formerly HCA 260.) Prerequisites: MA 115, 125, 135.
Focus is on the externship experience (HCA/MA 260) and transitioning from student
to professional medical assistant. (Formerly HCA 265.) Prerequisite: concurrent enrollment
in MA 260.