Going back to school as a working adult

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Going back to school as a working adult?

A growing number of career and vocational training schools now offer programs oriented toward working adults. People frequently enroll in career schools to acquire new skills for a new career. Accelerated programs and flexible schedules are making it easier and more convenient for working adults to finish school. Enrolling in a career school is a great way to make a career transition, learn new skills, study subjects of personal interest, and enhance marketability in a competitive job market. Unfortunately, many would-be students who desire to position themselves for a career change or return to school do not do so because of fear.

The First Step is Admitting It

The following concerns and fears are shared by many working adults reluctant to return to school: Working adults are concerned about the cost of returning to school, the time commitment involved, and the challenges of attending classes with younger students. Many are also concerned that their employers will be unimpressed with their new career. However, most working adults enrolling in career school end up fitting in well and are more than up to the challenge of returning to school as an adult. They usually enroll with fear and concern, only to later realize that their fear and concern were unfounded.

I’m Afraid It Will Be Too Expensive

It can be expensive to return to school. The expense alone is enough to cause many working adults to reconsider their decision to return to school. However, when education is viewed as an investment, the costs of attending school do not seem as large of a sacrifice. It’s best to have a long term rather than short term perspective. Salary increases associated with obtaining more education often offset the cost of returning to school. Many schools are relatively inexpensive to attend. Before deciding against returning to school based on the cost, consider how earning your degree or getting advanced training will help you in your current or new career.  Also, consider what your school can do to help offset tuition.  Do they offer Financial Aid to those who qualify?  Payment plans?

I’m Afraid It Will Take Up Too Much Time

It’s not unreasonable for adult students to feel overwhelmed with their current responsibilities. As a result, returning to school can be that much more intimidating. Working full-time, raising a family, and fulfilling other responsibilities are enough to occupy already full schedules.

However, it’s possible to make time to return to school–and many adults do it quite successfully. It may require sacrificing time spent enjoying leisurely activities, but it is possible to make the time. If you set a goal and have an unwavering commitment to reach it, you can develop the ability to make sacrifices that will allow you to accomplish your educational objectives.

I’m Afraid It Will Take Forever to Complete My Program

The Allen School offers accelerated learning programs. As a result, these programs require less time than would be required if one pursued their degree the traditional way. Our modules are 5 weeks long, and educational quality is not sacrificed to speed through course material. Students can graduate from their program in as little as 9 months.

Why Make the Move?

Since many career schools cater exclusively to working students, there are few, if any, reasons why an adult should hesitate to return to school if they feel it makes sense. They can greatly benefit from the decision to further their education. The following are just a few of the many benefits of returning to school as an adult:

  • Promotion or career advancement opportunities: Returning to school is one way to improve your chances of getting promoted, or it is one strategy for beginning a career transition.
  • Finish a started program: Many students find opportunities in the workforce before completing school. However, it is never too late to return and start a new career.
  • Demonstrate to your children and future generations the importance of education: If you set an example for your children, they are more than likely to attend school and enjoy the benefits of a career can offer.

It may seem intimidating and daunting to enroll in school, but this should not be a reason for missing out on the benefits of acquiring more education. Adults who simply put together a good, workable plan can smoothly make the transition back to school and make the experience a great success. Ready to start a Medical Assistant Program?

Contact the Allen School today! We are enrolling now for our fall classes and cannot wait for you to become part of the Allen School family.

-Allen School

Why a Medical Assistant Program is a Good Alternative if Not Accepted in a Nursing Program:

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If you are not accepted into a nursing program, pursuing a medical assistant program can be a great alternative for several reasons:

Faster completion time: Medical assistant programs are typically shorter in duration compared to nursing programs. While nursing programs may require several years of study, medical assistant programs can often be completed in less time, allowing you to enter the workforce sooner. At the Allen School, our students can graduate in as little as nine months.

Becoming a medical assistant can provide you with valuable entry-level healthcare experience and exposure to various aspects of the healthcare industry. This experience can be beneficial if you plan to pursue a career in nursing in the future, as it can help you develop essential skills and knowledge in patient care and healthcare operations. Our curriculum at the Allen School of Health Sciences includes a 275-hour internship which allows our students to gain real-world hands-on experience in the healthcare field. Which gives our students the exposure they need for a career in healthcare.

Transferable skills: The skills and knowledge gained in a medical assistant program, such as medical terminology, clinical procedures, and patient interaction, can be transferable to other healthcare roles. If you decide to pursue a different healthcare career path in the future, the skills you acquire as a medical assistant can be valuable and relevant in a variety of settings.

Job opportunities: Medical assistants are in demand in healthcare settings such as clinics, physician offices, and laboratories. By completing a medical assistant program, you can increase your chances of securing a job in the healthcare field and gaining valuable work experience while continuing to explore your career interests and options.

Professional growth and advancement: While working as a medical assistant, you may have opportunities for professional growth and advancement through additional training, certifications, and specializations. These opportunities can enhance your skills, expand your career prospects, and potentially lead to increased job responsibilities and earning potential.

Overall, pursuing a medical assistant program can be a rewarding and fulfilling career path, offering opportunities for personal and professional growth in the healthcare industry, even if you are not accepted into a nursing program. Choosing a medical assistant career path can provide a solid foundation for a rewarding and fulfilling career in healthcare. With opportunities for growth, job stability, and meaningful work, becoming a medical assistant can be a promising choice for individuals interested in entering the healthcare industry. If you have an interest in a career in the medical field or did not get accepted in a nursing program the Allen School of Health Sciences has a solution for you! Contact the Allen School today! www.allenschool.edu

What are Some of the Strongest Skills of a Medical Assistant

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Clinical skills: Medical assistants are trained to perform various clinical tasks such as phlebotomy, electrocardiogram (EKG), taking vital signs, administering injections, assisting with medical exams, and performing basic laboratory tests. Medical assistants can learn these skills from a medical assistant trade school. The Allen School of Health Sciences offers a hands-on blended format, medical assistant program. Students at the Allen School can graduate from the medical assistant program in as little as nine months.

Communication skills: Medical assistants need to have strong communication skills to effectively interact with patients, doctors, and other healthcare professionals. They must be able to explain procedures, provide instructions, and answer questions in a clear and concise manner.

Organizational skills: Medical assistants are responsible for scheduling appointments, maintaining patient records, and keeping track of medical supplies. They need to be highly organized to handle multiple tasks efficiently.

Attention to detail: Medical assistants must have a keen eye for detail to accurately record patient information, follow medical protocols, and ensure the correct dosage of medication is administered.

Empathy and compassion: Medical assistants often work with patients who may be experiencing pain, anxiety, or other emotions. It is important for medical assistants to show empathy and compassion towards patients to provide quality care and support.

Technical skills: Medical assistants need to be proficient in using medical equipment, electronic health records systems, and other technology to perform their job duties effectively.

Teamwork: Medical assistants often work as part of a healthcare team, collaborating with doctors, nurses, and other medical staff to provide comprehensive care to patients. Strong teamwork skills are essential for success in this role.

Ready to start working on a new career? Contact the Allen School today? We are enrolling now for classes starting soon. We cannot wait for you to become part of the Allen School family. www.allenschool.edu

Ways in Which Medical Assistants Can Assist Physicians:

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Medical assistants play a crucial role in supporting doctors and healthcare providers in various clinical and administrative tasks. Some ways in which medical assistants assist doctors include:

1. Rooming patients: Medical assistants are responsible for preparing examination rooms, escorting patients to the exam room, and gathering relevant patient information such as vital signs, medical history, and reason for the visit.

2. Taking vital signs: Medical assistants measure and record vital signs such as blood pressure, pulse rate, temperature, and respiratory rate to provide doctors with important information about the patient’s health status.

3. Assisting with examinations: Medical assistants may assist doctors during physical examinations by preparing equipment, positioning patients, and providing assistance as needed.

4. Administering medications: Medical assistants may be responsible for administering medications, vaccines, and injections under the supervision of a doctor or healthcare provider.

5. Performing diagnostic tests: Medical assistants may conduct basic diagnostic tests such as EKGs, urinalysis, and blood glucose monitoring as ordered by the doctor.

6. Assisting with procedures: Medical assistants may assist doctors during minor medical procedures, surgeries, or other medical interventions by preparing equipment, sterilizing instruments, and providing support to the doctor and patient.

7. Providing patient education: Medical assistants may educate patients on topics such as medication instructions, treatment plans, preventive care, and lifestyle modifications under the guidance of the doctor.

8. Documenting patient information: Medical assistants are responsible for accurately documenting patient information, medical history, examination findings, and treatment plans in electronic health records (EHR) or medical charts.

9. Coordinating patient care: Medical assistants may help coordinate patient care by scheduling appointments, arranging referrals to specialists, and communicating with other healthcare providers involved in the patient’s treatment.

Overall, medical assistants play a vital role in supporting doctors and healthcare providers in delivering high-quality patient care and ensuring the smooth operation of medical practices and healthcare facilities. To learn more about the medical assistant career field and learn how you can graduate in less than a year contact the Allen School of Health Sciences today! We are now enrolling for classes starting soon. www.allenschool.edu

Top Priorities of a Medical Assistant

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  • Providing quality patient care: The top priority of a medical assistant is to ensure that patients receive the best possible care and treatment. This includes assisting with examinations, taking vital signs, administering medications, and providing support to patients and their families. The Allen School of Health Sciences is a medical trade school that focuses on hands-on learning in a clinical classroom environment teaching phlebotomy, electrocardiogram (EKG), urinalysis, vital signs and so much more. This allows students to develop the skills necessary to ensure patients are receiving the best care possible.
  • Ensuring patient safety: Medical assistants must always prioritize the safety and well-being of patients. This includes following proper procedures for infection control, medication administration, and patient handling, as well as keeping accurate and up-to-date medical records.
  • Maintaining a clean and organized work environment: Medical assistants must ensure that the medical facility is clean, organized, and free of hazards. This includes sanitizing equipment, stocking supplies, and following proper protocols for handling and disposing of medical waste.
  • Working collaboratively with healthcare team members: Medical assistants play a key role in the healthcare team and must prioritize effective communication and collaboration with other healthcare professionals, such as doctors, nurses, and administrative staff. This ensures that patients receive comprehensive and coordinated care. A great way to develop how to work in teams is being in a medical assistant program with small class sizes and having an internship component in the medical assistant program. The Allen School of Health Sciences has a blended program of online and hands-on learning in a small clinical classroom environment. Our students also have a 275-hour internship component which gives them hands-on experience in a real-world healthcare environment.
  • Continuing education and professional development: To provide the best possible care to patients, medical assistants must prioritize ongoing education and professional development. This includes staying current on the latest medical advancements, attending training sessions and workshops, and pursuing certification or further education in the field. If you are a medical assistant and looking to elevate your skills check out the Allen School of Health Sciences – Healthcare Management Certificate Program.

If you are interested in a career in the medical field and want to elevate your skills. Contact Allen School today!

What are Some Common Medical Assistant Courses:

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Some common courses that are typically included in a medical assistant training program or curriculum include:

Medical Terminology: This course covers the language and terminology used in healthcare settings, including anatomy, physiology, and medical procedures.

Anatomy and Physiology: This course provides an overview of the structure and function of the human body, including major organ systems and their roles in the body.

Medical Office Procedures: This course covers essential administrative tasks and procedures commonly performed in medical offices, such as appointment scheduling, billing, and medical records management.

Clinical Procedures: This course focuses on hands-on clinical skills, such as taking vital signs, performing EKGs, administering medications, and assisting with minor medical procedures.

Pharmacology: This course covers the principles of drug administration, dosage calculations, medication classifications, and potential side effects and interactions.

Medical Law and Ethics: This course explores legal and ethical issues related to healthcare, including patient confidentiality, informed consent, and professional conduct.

Medical Billing and Coding: This course introduces students to the basics of medical billing and coding practices, including insurance claims processing, reimbursement procedures, and coding systems such as ICD-10 and CPT.

Electronic Health Records (EHR) Systems: This course provides training on electronic health record systems used in healthcare settings, including how to input and retrieve patient information, document care, and ensure data security and privacy.

These are just a few examples of common courses that may be included in a medical assistant training program. The specific courses and curriculum may vary depending on the school or program, but they are designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in a medical assistant career. At the Allen School of Health Sciences our program is a blended format tailored to meet the needs of the industry. We are only going to teach you what is directly related to the medical field. Students will also put their skills to use by completing 275 hours of a hands-on internship. So, if you are looking to do more and not learn just one skill, the Allen School of Health Sciences is the place for you. Contact us today! www.allenschool.edu

Artificial Intelligence and the Medical Assistant Career:

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Artificial intelligence (AI) has the potential to significantly impact the role of medical assistants in the healthcare industry. Some ways in which AI may affect the medical assistant career include:

  • Automation of routine tasks: AI technology can help automate routine administrative tasks, such as appointment scheduling, billing, and medical record management. This can free up medical assistants to focus on more complex and patient-facing duties.
  • Decision support systems: AI-powered decision support systems can provide medical assistants with real-time information and recommendations to assist in clinical decision-making. This can help improve the accuracy and efficiency of patient care.
  • Telemedicine and virtual care: AI technology can facilitate telemedicine and virtual care services, allowing medical assistants to provide remote assistance to patients and healthcare providers. This can expand the reach of medical assistants and improve access to healthcare for patients.
  • Data analysis and predictive analytics: AI algorithms can analyze large volumes of healthcare data to identify trends, patterns, and insights that can inform clinical decision-making and improve patient outcomes. Medical assistants can use this information to enhance the quality of care they provide.
  • Personalized patient care: AI technology can help medical assistants deliver more personalized and tailored care to patients by analyzing individual health data and preferences. This can lead to better patient engagement and satisfaction.
  • While AI has the potential to enhance the role of medical assistants in the healthcare industry, it is important for medical assistants to stay informed about current trends and advancements in AI technology and to continuously adapt and learn new skills to effectively leverage these tools in their practice.

For over 60 years the Allen School has trained thousands of students for their new careers in healthcare. Looking to learn more about the medical field taught by instructors with real-world experience? Contact the Allen School of Health Sciences today! www.allenschool.edu

How Your Love of helping people Can Translate into a New Career as a Medical Assistant

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If you have a passion for helping people, pursuing a career as a medical assistant can be a rewarding and fulfilling choice. As a medical assistant, you can have the opportunity to directly impact the lives of patients by providing compassionate care, support, and assistance in a healthcare setting.

Your love of helping people can translate into a successful career as a medical assistant:

Patient Care: Medical assistants play a crucial role in delivering patient care, from taking vital signs and preparing patients for examinations to assisting with procedures and providing emotional support. Your empathy, compassion, and desire to help others will be invaluable in building positive relationships with patients and ensuring their comfort and well-being.

Supportive Role: Medical assistants often work closely with physicians, nurses, and other healthcare professionals to coordinate patient care and ensure smooth operations in a medical facility. Your willingness to support and collaborate with colleagues will contribute to a cohesive and efficient healthcare team, benefiting patient outcomes.

Communication Skills: Effective communication is essential in healthcare settings to ensure that patients understand their treatment plans, follow-up care instructions, and medication regimens. Your ability to listen attentively, communicate clearly, and show empathy will help patients feel heard and supported throughout their healthcare journey.

Problem-Solving: Medical assistants often encounter challenging situations that require quick thinking and problem-solving skills. Your love of helping people can drive you to find creative solutions, adapt to unexpected circumstances, and advocate for patients’ needs, ultimately enhancing the quality of care provided.

Lifelong Learning: Healthcare is a dynamic and ever-evolving field, requiring medical assistants to stay informed about new technologies, treatments, and best practices. Your passion for helping people can motivate you to pursue ongoing education, professional development opportunities, and certifications to enhance your skills and knowledge as a medical assistant.

Overall, your love of helping people can serve as a strong foundation for a successful and fulfilling career as a medical assistant, allowing you to make a positive impact on the lives of patients and contribute to the healthcare community in a meaningful way. If you have a love of helping people and are interested in the medical field contact the Allen School to schedule your career planning session. www.allenschool.edu

Real World Instructors are Invaluable in a Medical Assistant Program

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Real-world instructors are indeed invaluable in a medical assistant program for a variety of reasons: 1. Practical Experience: Real-world instructors bring hands-on experience from their work in healthcare settings, allowing them to share real-life scenarios, challenges, and insights with students. This practical knowledge enhances the learning experience and provides students with a deeper understanding of the realities of working as a medical assistant. 2. Industry Insights: Instructors who are actively working in the field can offer up-to-date information on industry trends, best practices, and technological advancements. This ensures that the curriculum remains relevant and aligns with the current demands of the healthcare industry, preparing students for the realities of the job market. 3. Mentorship and Guidance: Real-world instructors can serve as mentors to students, offering guidance, support, and advice based on their firsthand experience. They can provide personalized feedback, career advice, and professional development opportunities to help students succeed in their training and transition into their careers as medical assistants. 4. Networking Opportunities: Instructors who have established connections in the healthcare industry can help students build valuable professional networks. They may facilitate introductions to potential employers, provide recommendations, or offer insights on job opportunities, helping students navigate the job market and launch their careers successfully. 5. Role Modeling: Real-world instructors serve as role models for students, demonstrating professionalism, ethical behavior, and a commitment to quality patient care. By observing and interacting with experienced professionals, students can learn valuable skills, attitudes, and behaviors that will shape their own practice as medical assistants. Overall, real-world instructors play a critical role in the education and training of medical assistant students, offering a unique blend of practical experience, industry insights, mentorship, and role modeling. Their contributions help students develop the knowledge, skills, and confidence needed to excel in their careers and make a positive impact in the healthcare field. Would you like to be part of a medical assistant program taught by instructors with real-world experience? Contact the Allen School today to schedule your campus tour. www.allenschool.edu We look forward to you seeing our students and instructors in action!

Why is Summer a Good Time to Start a Medical Assistant Program

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Summer can be a suitable time to start a medical assistant program. Listed below are some of the key reasons why it’s a good time to start in the summer. Flexible Scheduling: Many medical assistant programs offer flexible scheduling options during the summer, allowing students to complete their coursework in a condensed time frame. This can be beneficial for those who want to fast-track their education and enter the workforce sooner. The Allen School of Health Sciences medical assistant program is a blended program of on-line and hands on learning where students can graduate in less than a year. Focus on Education: With fewer distractions and commitments during the summer months, students may have more time and energy to focus on their studies and fully engage in their medical assistant program. This can lead to better academic performance and retention of course material. Internship Opportunities: Some medical assistant programs include clinical internships or externships as part of the curriculum. Starting the program in the summer may provide students with the opportunity to complete their hands-on training during a time when healthcare facilities may have more availability for student placements. The Allen School of Health Sciences internship is 275 hours. Students will receive hands-on real-world experience in a healthcare setting. Job Market Demand: Healthcare facilities often experience increased demand for medical assistants during the summer months due to factors such as vacation schedules, seasonal illnesses, and higher patient volumes. Starting a medical assistant program in the summer can position students to enter the job market at a time when there may be more job opportunities available. Career Readiness: Completing a medical assistant program in the summer can prepare students to enter the workforce quickly and begin their careers as medical assistants. This can be especially advantageous for those who are looking to start a new career or transition into the healthcare field promptly. Overall, starting a medical assistant program in the summer can offer students various benefits, including flexible scheduling, focused education, internship opportunities, alignment with job market demand, and readiness for entry-level positions in the healthcare industry. By taking advantage of these opportunities, students can kickstart their journey toward a rewarding career as a medical assistant. The Allen School of Health Sciences is now enrolling for early acceptance. Contact the Allen School today!

www.allenschool.edu