Degree Earned:
Occupational Associate of Applied Business Degree in Business Office Technology – Medical Assisting
Available campuses for this program:
Hattiesburg, Jackson
Introduction
Medical assistants perform administrative and clinical duties under the direction of physician. Administrative duties may include scheduling appointments, maintaining medical records, billing and coding for insurance purposes. Clinical duties may include taking and recording vital signs and medical histories, preparing patients for examination, drawing blood and administering medications as directed by physician.
Program Overview
The Associate Degree of Applied Business in Business Office Technology with an emphasis in Medical Assisting program is designed to provide students with skills necessary to work side by side with physicians. Career choices include entry-level positions such as medical assistant, pharmacy technician, medical secretary, laboratory technician, medical biller, phlebotomist, clinical assistant, insurance claim representative, medical office manager, and other general medical and clerical jobs. Hands-on clinical training in vital signs, physical exams, EKG lead placement, venipuncture, urinalysis, and medication administration will enable medical assistants to assist physicians and other members of health care teams. Administrative training such as word processing, medical office procedures, and advanced computer classes along with pharmacology, and public speaking will enable graduates to enter the medical workforce with enhanced clerical skills.
Career Outlook
Medical Assisting is the fastest-growing industry in the country. Medical assistants perform both administrative and clinical duties with tasks ranging from scheduling appointments to updating patient files to performing basic laboratory tests. The fast-paced environment of a hospital, physician's office, health clinic or nursing home requires medical assistants to be able to multi-task and provide a pleasant atmosphere for patients.
Experienced medical assistants often elect to cross-train or transition into these related fields to move on in their career.
Hemodialysis/Dialysis
Technician
Phlebotomists
Pharmacy Aides and Technicians
