InterCoast Colleges in Rancho Cordova offers a 40-week hybrid Medical Assistant Program that provides students with a well-rounded education in both clinical and administrative skills. Designed to prepare graduates for entry-level positions in healthcare, the program consists of 900 hours of training, which includes classroom instruction, hands-on lab practice, and a 180-hour externship in a medical facility. The total cost of the program is $19,125, with payment plans and financial aid options available for qualifying students. Graduates are eligible to sit for the National Certified Medical Assistant (NCMA) exam, providing them with a competitive edge in the job market.
Overview
This program is tailored for those who want to build a solid foundation in medical assisting. It covers everything from assisting with minor surgical procedures and performing injections to managing office duties like patient scheduling, insurance billing, and medical office bookkeeping. With a flexible hybrid model combining online classes and in-person labs, the program is a practical option for students balancing other responsibilities while advancing their careers in healthcare.
Training Components
The program provides students with a balance of theoretical knowledge and hands-on skills. Courses include:
- Medical Terminology, Law, and Ethics: Introduces students to the language of healthcare and the legal and ethical standards required in medical settings.
- Anatomy and Physiology: Covers body structure and system functions to understand patient care better.
- Clinical Skills: Students learn critical procedures such as phlebotomy, EKG administration, infection control, medication administration, and assisting with minor surgeries.
- Administrative Skills: Includes patient scheduling, maintaining records, insurance billing, and bookkeeping using modern medical office software.
- Externship: A 180-hour clinical placement provides real-world experience in a healthcare setting, preparing students for day-to-day responsibilities in the field.
The hybrid structure allows students to complete the majority of their coursework online, with in-person labs to practice essential clinical skills. This approach provides flexibility without sacrificing hands-on learning.
Certification Preparation
Graduates are eligible to take the National Certified Medical Assistant (NCMA) exam through the National Center for Competency Testing (NCCT). Certification enhances job prospects and demonstrates competency to potential employers. Additionally, students are certified in CPR, further bolstering their credentials for medical roles.
Prerequisites
Before enrolling in the program, students must meet the following requirements:
- Possess a high school diploma or GED.
- No prior healthcare experience is required, making this program accessible for career changers.
- Students must commit to completing the program’s hybrid format, which includes online lectures and in-person labs.
Career Opportunities
Upon graduation, students are prepared for various entry-level roles in the healthcare field, including:
- Medical Assistant (clinical and administrative roles)
- Insurance Billing Specialist
- EKG Technician
- Medical Office Manager
- Medical Office Bookkeeping Clerk
These roles are available in diverse settings such as clinics, hospitals, outpatient centers, and private practices. While this program prepares students for many opportunities, it does not meet California’s certification requirements for phlebotomy.
Additional Benefits
Flexible Learning
The hybrid format combines online coursework with in-person labs, providing convenience and flexibility. This is ideal for students managing work or family obligations.
Hands-On Training
The program emphasizes practical skills through lab work and a required externship, ensuring graduates are job-ready with real-world experience.
Financial Support
InterCoast Colleges offers payment plans, financial aid options, and guidance for students seeking assistance with tuition costs.
Is This Program Right for You?
This program is an excellent fit for individuals seeking a career in healthcare who value both clinical and administrative skills. The hybrid format is ideal for students who need flexibility while ensuring they receive practical, hands-on training. With certification preparation included, this program is suitable for those looking to enter the workforce quickly in roles such as a medical assistant, EKG technician, or medical office manager. If you’re motivated to start a career in healthcare and want a program that offers practical experience and certification readiness, InterCoast’s Medical Assistant Program is worth considering.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Cost | $19,125 |
| Duration | 40 weeks |
| Class Schedules | Hybrid program: Online coursework with in-person labs and externship |
| Online Classes? | Yes (Hybrid program) |
| Requirements | High school diploma or GED |
| Address | 9738 Lincoln Village Dr. Suite 120, Sacramento, CA 95827 |
| Phone | (916) 714-5400 |
| Website | https://intercoast.edu/programs/medical-assistant/ |
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