Medical Assisting
The Medical Assisting curriculum prepares multi-skilled health care professionals to be qualified to perform administrative, clinical, and laboratory procedures.
Course work includes scheduling appointments, coding and processing insurance accounts, billing, collections, medical transcription, computer operations, assisting with examinations/treatments, performing routine laboratory procedures, electrocardiography, supervised medication administration, and ethical/legal issues associated with patient care.
Advanced credits can be awarded toward an Associate of Applied Science Degree in Medical Assisting. Individuals desiring a career in Medical Assisting should, if possible, take biology, mathematics, keyboarding, and computer courses before entering the program. Students are admitted to the Medical Assisting program for the fall and spring semesters.
Visit the Central Piedmont Career Coach website for specific information about potential positions and wages in medical assisting employment.
Medical Assisting (A45400)
Degree Awarded
The college awards a degree in Medical Assisting upon completing the degree requirements.
Admissions
- Complete a Central Piedmont admissions application.
- Submit high school transcripts and any college transcripts (if applicable).
- Take required placement tests.
- Complete any necessary Developmental classes with a “C” or better.
- Students are selected to enter the program. Upon acceptance and enrollment in the program, students must take all courses in the scheduled sequence. Many courses have prerequisites or co-requisites; check the Courses section for details.
- Submit a physical examination (including a drug screen) documenting the ability to complete all program requirements
Notes
- ACA 122 College Transfer Success is highly recommended before or with entrance in the Medical Assisting program.
- Progression in this program is dependent on satisfying course prerequisites, co-requisites and maintaining a grade of “C” or better for all courses in the curriculum.
- Students must have current CPR Certification prior to the Practicum (MED 260).
- In addition to tuition, lab fees and textbooks, this program has additional costs that include uniforms, lab coats, personal protective equipment, physical examination including immunizations and drug screening and a Central Piedmont Medical Assisting pin.
- In order to participate in clinical education experiences at health care facilities, students may be required to submit results of a NC state or national criminal background check at their own expense. As a condition of program admission, students may be required to verify that they are United States citizens or are otherwise legally authorized residents of the United States.
Contact Information
The Medical Assisting program is in the Outpatient and Simulation Division. For more information, visit the Medical Assisting Program website. If further information is needed, contact the program chair at 704.330.6482.
| General Education Requirements | ||
| ENG 111 | Writing and Inquiry | 3.0 |
| Select one of the following: | 3.0 | |
| Quantitative Literacy | ||
| Statistical Methods I | ||
| Select 3 credits of the following: | 3.0 | |
| Principles of Microeconomics | ||
| Principles of Macroeconomics | ||
| World Civilizations I | ||
| World Civilizations II | ||
| American History I | ||
| American History II | ||
| American Government | ||
| General Psychology | ||
| Introduction to Sociology | ||
| Select one of the following: | 3.0 | |
| Introduction to Communication | ||
| Public Speaking | ||
| Select 3 credits of the following: | 3.0 | |
| Art Appreciation | ||
| Art History Survey I | ||
| Art History Survey II | ||
| Theatre Appreciation | ||
| Cultural Studies | ||
| Myth in Human Culture | ||
| Music Appreciation | ||
| Introduction to Jazz | ||
| Philosophical Issues | ||
| Introduction to Ethics | ||
| World Religions | ||
| Major Requirements | ||
| MED 110 | Orientation to Medical Assisting | 1.0 |
| MED 116 | Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology | 4.0 |
| MED 118 | Medical Law and Ethics | 2.0 |
| MED 121 | Medical Terminology I | 3.0 |
| MED 122 | Medical Terminology II | 3.0 |
| MED 130 | Administrative Office Procedures I | 2.0 |
| MED 131 | Administrative Office Procedures II | 2.0 |
| MED 140 | Examining Room Procedures I | 5.0 |
| MED 150 | Laboratory Procedures I | 5.0 |
| MED 240 | Examining Room Procedures II | 5.0 |
| MED 260 | MED Clinical Practicum | 5.0 |
| MED 262 | Clinical Perspectives | 1.0 |
| MED 272 | Drug Therapy | 3.0 |
| BUS 135 | Principles of Supervision | 3.0 |
| MED 232 | Medical Insurance Coding | 2.0 |
| or MED 274 | Diet Therapy/Nutrition | |
| or BIO 155 | Nutrition | |
| or ACA 122 | College Transfer Success | |
| or HCI 120 | Medical Communication | |
| Take 3 credits from the following | 3.0 | |
| Symptomatology AAS degree choice | ||
| Medical Transcription Medical Scribe Certificate only | ||
| Electronic Medical Records I Medical Scribe Certificate only | ||
| Total Credits | 64 | |
Medical Assisting Diploma (D45400)
Diploma Awarded
The college awards a diploma in Medical Assisting upon completing the diploma requirements. Graduates of this CAAHEP Accredited program may apply to take the certification examination administered by the American Association of Medical Assistants. Credits from this program can be applied toward requirements for the Associate of Applied Science Degree in Medical Assisting.
Graduates of CAAHEP accredited medical assisting programs may be eligible to sit for the American Association of Medical Assistants’ Certification Examination to become Certified Medical Assistants. Employment opportunities include physicians’ offices, health maintenance organizations, health departments and hospitals.
Admissions
- Complete a Central Piedmont admissions application.
- Submit high school transcripts and any college transcripts (if applicable).
- Take required placement tests.
- Complete any necessary Developmental classes with a “C” or better.
- Students must be selected to enter the program. Upon acceptance and enrollment in the program, students must take all courses in the scheduled sequence.
- Many courses have prerequisites or co-requisites; check the Courses section for details.
- A physical examination (including a drug screen) documenting the applicant’s ability to complete all program requirements is required
- Students entering or re-entering the MED program must successfully re-take any MED courses taken five or more years prior to the entry or re-entry point.
Program Accreditation
The Medical Assisting Diploma Program on Central Campus is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs, caahep.org, upon the recommendation of the Medical Assisting Education Review Board (MAERB), Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs, 9355-113th St. N, #7709, Seminole, FL 33775, Email: mail@caahep.org, Phone: 727.210.2350.
Notes
- ACA 122 College Transfer Success is highly recommended before or with entrance in the Medical Assisting program.
- Progression in this program is dependent on satisfying course prerequisites, co-requisites and maintaining a grade of “C” or better for all courses in the curriculum.
- Students must have current CPR Certification prior to the Practicum (MED 260).
- In addition to tuition, lab fees and textbooks, this program has additional costs that include uniforms, lab coats, personal protective equipment, physical examination including immunizations and drug screening, application fees for sitting for the Certification Exam and a Central Piedmont Medical Assisting pin.
- In order to participate in clinical education experiences at health care facilities, students may be required to submit results of a NC state or national criminal background check at their own expense. As a condition of program admission, students may be required to verify that they are United States citizens or are otherwise legally authorized residents of the United States.
Contact Information
The Medical Assisting Program is in the Outpatient and Simulation Division. For more information, visit the Medical Assisting Program website. For further assistance, contact the program chair at 704.330.6482.
| General Education Requirements | ||
| ENG 111 | Writing and Inquiry | 3.0 |
| Select 3 credits of the following: | 3.0 | |
| Introduction to Communication | ||
| Intro to Interpersonal Communication | ||
| Public Speaking | ||
| Major Requirements | ||
| MED 110 | Orientation to Medical Assisting | 1.0 |
| MED 118 | Medical Law and Ethics | 2.0 |
| MED 121 | Medical Terminology I | 3.0 |
| MED 122 | Medical Terminology II | 3.0 |
| MED 130 | Administrative Office Procedures I | 2.0 |
| MED 131 | Administrative Office Procedures II | 2.0 |
| MED 140 | Examining Room Procedures I | 5.0 |
| MED 150 | Laboratory Procedures I | 5.0 |
| MED 260 | MED Clinical Practicum | 5.0 |
| MED 116 | Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology | 4.0 |
| MED 262 | Clinical Perspectives | 1.0 |
| MED 240 | Examining Room Procedures II | 5.0 |
| MED 272 | Drug Therapy | 3.0 |
| Total Credits | 47 | |
Medical Assisting Certificates (C45400)
Health Sciences Certificate Specialization in Fundamentals in Medical Assisting (C45920-C1)
This certificate is also available to high school students enrolled in Career & College Promise.
| Major Requirements | ||
| HSC 110 | Orientation to Health Careers | 1.0 |
| HSC 140 | Transcultural Healthcare | 2.0 |
| HEA 112 | First Aid & CPR | 2.0 |
| MED 121 | Medical Terminology I | 3.0 |
| MED 110 | Orientation to Medical Assisting | 1.0 |
| MED 118 | Medical Law and Ethics | 2.0 |
| MED 122 | Medical Terminology II | 3.0 |
| Total Credits | 14 | |
Medical Assisting Certificate Specialization in Medical Scribe (C45400-C4)
This certificate is offered to credentialed Medical Assistants only.
| Major Requirements | ||
| MED 232 | Medical Insurance Coding | 2.0 |
| MED 270 | Symptomatology | 3.0 |
| MED 134 | Medical Transcription | 3.0 |
| MED 183 | Electronic Medical Records I | 5.0 |
| Total Credits | 13 | |
Medical Assisting Certificate Specialization in Healthcare Interpreter (C45400-C5)
| Major Requirements | ||
| MED 110 | Orientation to Medical Assisting | 1.0 |
| MED 116 | Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology | 4.0 |
| MED 118 | Medical Law and Ethics | 2.0 |
| MED 121 | Medical Terminology I | 3.0 |
| HSC 140 | Transcultural Healthcare | 2.0 |
| HCI 120 | Medical Communication | 4.0 |
| Total Credits | 16 | |
The following is the suggested plan for when to take each course to complete the Associate in Applied Science degree, based on the program requirements of the 2022-2023 catalog. This is only a recommendation — you may take courses in another order upon consultation with your advisor. This plan is based on you starting with college-level math and English courses, starting your program in the fall, and attending full-time. You can also follow this sequence if you attend part-time. Speak with an advisor about the plan and any questions. This program might also offer diplomas or certificates; visit the catalog or contact the program for details.
Medical Assisting suggested course sequence (associate in applied science degree)
Courses
MED 110. Orientation to Medical Assisting. 1.0 Credit. Class-1.0. Clinical-0.0. Lab-0.0. Work-0.0
This course covers the history of medicine and the role of the medical assistant in the health care setting. Emphasis is placed on professionalism, communication, attitude, behaviors, and duties in the medical environment. Upon completion, students should be able to project a positive attitude and promote the profession of medical assisting.
MED 116. Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology. 4.0 Credits. Class-3.0. Clinical-0.0. Lab-2.0. Work-0.0
This course introduces basic anatomy and physiology. Emphasis is placed on the relationship between body structure and function and the procedures common to health care. Upon completion, students should be able to identify body system components and functions relating this knowledge to the delivery of health care.
MED 118. Medical Law and Ethics. 2.0 Credits. Class-2.0. Clinical-0.0. Lab-0.0. Work-0.0
This course covers legal relationships of physicians and patients, contractual agreements, professional liability, malpractice, medical practice acts, informed consent, and bioethical issues. Emphasis is placed on legal terms, professional attitudes, and the principles and basic concepts of ethics and laws involved in providing medical services. Upon completion, students should be able to meet the legal and ethical responsibilities of a multi-skilled health professional.
MED 120. Survey of Medical Terminology. 2.0 Credits. Class-2.0. Clinical-0.0. Lab-0.0. Work-0.0
This course introduces the vocabulary, abbreviations, and symbols used in the language of medicine. Emphasis is placed on building medical terms using prefixes, suffixes, and word roots. Upon completion, students should be able to pronounce, spell, and define accepted medical terms.
MED 121. Medical Terminology I. 3.0 Credits. Class-3.0. Clinical-0.0. Lab-0.0. Work-0.0
This course introduces prefixes, suffixes, and word roots used in the language of medicine. Topics include medical vocabulary and the terms that relate to the anatomy, physiology, pathological conditions, and treatment of selected systems. Upon completion, students should be able to pronounce, spell, and define medical terms as related to selected body systems and their pathological disorders.
MED 122. Medical Terminology II. 3.0 Credits. Class-3.0. Clinical-0.0. Lab-0.0. Work-0.0
This course is the second in a series of medical terminology courses. Topics include medical vocabulary and the terms that relate to the anatomy, physiology, pathological conditions, and treatment of selected systems. Upon completion, students should be able to pronounce, spell, and define medical terms as related to selected body systems and their pathological disorders.
MED 130. Administrative Office Procedures I. 2.0 Credits. Class-1.0. Clinical-0.0. Lab-2.0. Work-0.0
This course introduces medical office administrative procedures. Topics include appointment processing, written and oral communications, medical records, patient orientation, and safety. Upon completion, students should be able to perform basic administrative skills within the medical environment.
MED 131. Administrative Office Procedures II. 2.0 Credits. Class-1.0. Clinical-0.0. Lab-2.0. Work-0.0
This course provides medical office procedures in both economic and management skills. Topics include physical plant maintenance, equipment and supplies, liability coverage, medical economics, and introductory insurance procedures. Upon completion, students should be able to manage the economics of the medical office and supervise personnel.
MED 134. Medical Transcription. 3.0 Credits. Class-2.0. Clinical-0.0. Lab-2.0. Work-0.0
This course provides the basic knowledge, understanding, and skills required to complete medical reports and transcribe medical dictation. Emphasis is placed on correct punctuation, capitalization, and spelling. Upon completion, students should be able to demonstrate competence in medical transcription.
MED 140. Examining Room Procedures I. 5.0 Credits. Class-3.0. Clinical-0.0. Lab-4.0. Work-0.0
This course provides instruction in clinical examining room procedures. Topics include asepsis, infection control, assisting with exams and treatment, patient education, preparation and administration of medications, EKG, vital signs, and medical emergencies. Upon completion, students should be able to demonstrate competence in exam room procedures.
MED 150. Laboratory Procedures I. 5.0 Credits. Class-3.0. Clinical-0.0. Lab-4.0. Work-0.0
This course provides instruction in basic lab techniques used by the medical assistant. Topics include lab safety, quality control, collecting and processing specimens, performing selective tests, phlebotomy, screening and follow-up of test results, and OSHA/CLIA regulations. Upon completion, students should be able to perform basic lab tests/skills based on course topics.
MED 183. Electronic Medical Records I. 5.0 Credits. Class-3.0. Clinical-3.0. Lab-2.0. Work-0.0
This course introduces students to the design and creation of Electronic Methods Records using a variety of EMR models. Topics include historial background of electronic medical records, legal/ethical principles inherent to healthcare information, patient flow, scheduling, call processing and tasking using the EMR. Upon completion, students should be able to discuss the history of EMR, identify emerging issues, apply ethical principles, and use basic modules of an EMR.
MED 232. Medical Insurance Coding. 2.0 Credits. Class-1.0. Clinical-0.0. Lab-3.0. Work-0.0
This course is designed to develop coding skills. Emphasis is placed on advanced diagnostic and procedural coding in the outpatient facility. Upon completion, students should be able to demonstrate proficiency in coding for reimbursement.
MED 240. Examining Room Procedures II. 5.0 Credits. Class-3.0. Clinical-0.0. Lab-4.0. Work-0.0
This course is designed to expand and build upon skills presented in MED 140. Emphasis is placed on advanced exam room procedures. Upon completion, students should be able to demonstrate enhanced competence in selected exam room procedures.
MED 260. MED Clinical Practicum. 5.0 Credits. Class-0.0. Clinical-15.0. Lab-0.0. Work-0.0
This course provides the opportunity to apply clinical, laboratory, and administrative skills in a medical facility. Emphasis is placed on enhancing competence in clinical and administrative skills necessary for comprehensive patient care and strengthening professional communications and interactions. Upon completion, students should be able to function as an entry-level health care professional.
MED 262. Clinical Perspectives. 1.0 Credit. Class-1.0. Clinical-0.0. Lab-0.0. Work-0.0
This course is designed to explore personal and occupational responsibilities of the practicing medical assistant. Emphasis is placed on problems encountered during externships and development of problem-solving skills. Upon completion, students should be able to demonstrate courteous and diplomatic behavior when solving problems in the medical facility.
MED 270. Symptomatology. 3.0 Credits. Class-2.0. Clinical-0.0. Lab-2.0. Work-0.0
This course covers the study of disease symptoms and the appropriate actions taken by medical assistants in a medical facility in relation to these symptoms. Emphasis is placed on interviewing skills and appropriate triage, preparing patients for procedures, and screening test results. Upon completion, students should be able to recognize how certain symptoms relate to specific diseases, recognize emergency situations, and take appropriate actions.
MED 272. Drug Therapy. 3.0 Credits. Class-3.0. Clinical-0.0. Lab-0.0. Work-0.0
This course focuses on major drug groups, including their side effects, interactions, methods of administration, and proper documentation. Emphasis is placed on the theory of drug administration. Upon completion, students should be able to identify, spell, recognize side effects of, and document the most commonly used medications in a physician's office.
MED 274. Diet Therapy/Nutrition. 3.0 Credits. Class-3.0. Clinical-0.0. Lab-0.0. Work-0.0
This course introduces the basic principles of nutrition as they relate to health and disease. Topics include basic nutrients, physiology, dietary deficiencies, weight management, and therapeutic nutrition in wellness and disease. Upon completion, students should be able to interpret clinical and dietary data and provide patient counseling and education.