Medical Assisting (Associate of Applied Science) - Southaven

Program offered at: Southaven, Mississippi

Medical Assisting (Associate of Applied Science) Mission Statement:

The purpose of the Medical Assisting degree program is to provide students the opportunity, along with their occupational skills, to develop essential basic skills for continued learning and career development through general education courses that include: mathematics; written, verbal and nonverbal communications; interpersonal skills; critical thinking; the sciences; and the humanities.

Learning Objectives / Instructional Outcomes

The program includes general education courses covering mathematics, written, verbal, and nonverbal communications; interpersonal skills; critical thinking; the sciences; and the humanities. Learning objectives include achievement of sufficient theoretical knowledge and practical skills in the areas of anatomy, physiology, pathology, the body systems, medical terminology, medical front office procedures, venipuncture, laboratory diagnostic procedures, EKG, and administration of parenteral medications to function successfully in an entry-level position as a Medical Assistant in a clinic or physician’s office.

Career Overview

Whether in a physician’s office, a clinic, or hospital-owned physician network, the Medical Assistant performs many services on the physician’s behalf. These may include admissions work, preparing the patient for examination or treatment, operating diagnostic equipment, and performing diagnostic procedures. The Medical Assistant is also responsible for the patient’s medical records and insurance forms as well as for scheduling appointments and maintaining medical records for the physician.