(Code 1414)
A Medical Assistant is a multi-skilled allied health care professional who performs administrative and clinical duties under the supervision of a licensed health care practitioner. A student completing this certificate program is qualified to work as a medical assistant in a variety of settings including medical offices, outpatient facilities, health maintenance organizations, health departments, business and industry and insurance companies. Minimum COMPASS or ACT test scores are required for math, reading and writing.
Progression in the medical assistant program is determined academically by the minimum grade of a C+ (78 percent) in each medical assistant course (AHEA 109 , AHEA 111 , AHEA 112 , AHEA 113 , AHEA 114 , AHEA 115 and AHEA 126 .) and can be repeated only once. An attempt is counted if a student fails or withdraws from the course. In all other required courses, students must earn a minimum grade of C.
All courses must be completed within two years to facilitate the student’s success in the externship setting and the national certification examination. The instructors have determined the following as critical areas and students should be conscious of the time frames. If the time limit has been exceeded (first year complete AHEA 111 , AHEA 112 and AHEA 115 ; second year complete for AHEA 100 , AHEA 109 , AHEA 113 and AHEA 114 ), a mandatory validation of knowledge and skills is necessary prior to applying for the externship (AHEA 126 ). Contact the program director to make the necessary arrangements. Students must also complete a criminal background check (CBC) before enrolling in AHEA 109 .
Students who intend to apply to nursing or another allied health program must meet the admission requirements for that particular program. General standards required by the health care professions include, but are not limited to, drug screens, finger printing, criminal background checks, immunizations, and other required documentation and certifications.
Some prerequisite courses or testing may apply to this program. Immunizations, a health certification form and health physical examination are additional requirements of the program and will be addressed in AHEA 109 . Any student who has a serious illness, injury or pregnancy while in the program will be required to obtain a doctor’s written release.
Montcalm Community College is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (www.caahep.org) upon the recommendation of the Medical Assisting Education Review Board (MAERB).
MCC’s Health Occupations programs require a clear criminal background check result. Students with a conviction history may not be eligible to participate in any Health Occupations program at MCC and should consult with an attorney to discuss their options.
Students interested in receiving an associate degree should see a counselor.
Prerequisite courses may apply to this program.
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