Discover How a Medical Assistant Administers Patient Care at the Allen School of Health Sciences

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A Medical Assistant plays a crucial role in administering patient care by providing both clinical and administrative support to healthcare professionals. Here are some key ways in which a Medical Assistant administers patient care:

  1. Preparing Patients For Examinations:  Medical Assistants greet patients, escort them to examination rooms, and prepare them for their appointments; This includes taking their vital signs, documenting medical history, and ensuring they are comfortable.
  1. Assisting With Procedures And Treatments:  Medical Assistants may assist healthcare providers during various medical procedures and treatments; They may help with wound care, administer medications as instructed, perform basic laboratory tests, and assist with minor surgical procedures.
  1. Collecting And Preparing Specimens:  Medical Assistants are often responsible for collecting and preparing specimens for laboratory testing. This may involve drawing blood, collecting urine samples, or performing other specimen collection procedures.
  1. Providing Patient Education:  Medical Assistants play a vital role in educating patients about their conditions, treatments, and medications. An MA might explain post-procedure care instructions, provide information about managing chronic conditions, or offer guidance on lifestyle modifications.
  1. Administering Medications:  Under the supervision of a healthcare provider, Medical Assistants may administer medications, including injections, as prescribed. An MA will ensure proper dosage, route of administration, and adherence to safety protocols.
  1. Maintaining Medical Equipment And Supplies: Medical Assistants are responsible for sterilizing and maintaining medical equipment, ensuring it is ready for use during patient care. An MA also monitors and restocks medical supplies, ensuring that examination rooms are adequately equipped.
  1. Coordinating Referrals And Appointments:  Medical Assistants often assist with coordinating referrals to specialists or scheduling follow-up appointments. They communicate with patients, other healthcare facilities, and insurance companies to ensure a smooth transition of care.
  1. Documenting Patient Information: Accurate documentation is essential in healthcare.  Medical Assistants maintain patient records, update medical histories, and enter relevant information into electronic health record systems. They assist in maintaining confidentiality and adhering to privacy regulations.
  1. Providing Emotional Support: Medical Assistants often interact closely with patients and their families. They offer empathy, compassion, and reassurance, creating a comfortable and supportive environment during patient care.

It is important to note that the specific tasks a Medical Assistant can perform may vary based on factors such as state regulations, the healthcare setting, and the supervising healthcare provider’s preferences. To learn more about how a Medical Assistant provides patient care and a career as a Medical Assistant, contact the Allen School of Health Sciences today! We are enrolling now for classes starting soon. www.allenschool.edu

Vital Signs: A Must-Know for Medical Assistants

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Vital signs are measurements of basic physiological functions that indicate the overall health and well-being of an individual; They provide important information about a person’s body functions and help healthcare professionals assess their current condition. The four main vital signs commonly measured are:

  1. Temperature:  This indicates the body’s internal heat and can help identify fever or hypothermia, which can be signs of infection or other issues.
  2. Pulse:  Also known as the heart rate, measures the number of times the heart beats per minute. Your pulse provides information about the heart’s function and circulation.
  3. Blood Pressure:  It measures the force of blood against the walls of the arteries. Blood pressure readings help assess cardiovascular health and detect conditions like hypertension or hypotension.
  4. Respiratory Rate: This measures the number of breaths taken per minute. Respiratory rate provides insights into the efficiency of lung function and can help identify respiratory issues.

Medical Assistants should know how to take vital signs for several reasons:

  • Assessment: Vital signs help medical professionals assess a patient’s overall health and detect any abnormalities or changes that may require further investigation or treatment.
  • Monitoring: Regularly measuring vital signs allows healthcare providers to monitor a patient’s condition and track their progress during treatment or recovery.
  • Early detection: Abnormal vital signs may be an early indication of underlying health problems or complications. By recognizing and reporting abnormal readings, Medical Assistants can help healthcare providers intervene and provide appropriate care promptly.
  • Documentation: Accurate recording of vital signs is crucial for maintaining a patient’s medical records; This information serves as a baseline for future comparisons and helps in making informed decisions about patient care.
  • Communication: Medical Assistants often act as a bridge between patients and healthcare providers. Understanding and effectively communicating vital sign measurements to the healthcare team ensures that everyone is well-informed and can make appropriate decisions regarding patient care.

Overall, knowing how to take vital signs is a fundamental skill for Medical Assistants as it contributes to the comprehensive assessment and care of patients. If you are looking for career relevant education in the medical field, contact the Allen School of Health Sciences today! www.allenschool.edu

Why Should I Take a Medical Assistant Program Over an LPN program?

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Why Should I Take a Medical Assistant Program Over an LPN program?

There are several reasons why taking a Medical Assisting program before pursuing an LPN (Licensed Practical Nurse) program might be beneficial.  Here are a few points to consider:

1. Time and Cost:  Medical Assisting programs are typically shorter and less expensive compared to LPN programs.  If you are looking for a quicker entry into the healthcare field, medical assisting can be a good starting point.

2.  Versatility:  Medical Assistants are trained to perform both administrative and clinical tasks, making them versatile in various healthcare settings.  This can provide you with a broader range of job opportunities compared to LPNs, who primarily work in clinical settings.

3.  Exposure To Various Specialties:  Medical Assisting programs often provide exposure to different medical specialties, giving you a chance to explore and gain experience in different areas of healthcare.  This can help you make a more informed decision if you later decide to pursue further education in a specific nursing specialty.

4.  Stepping Stone:  Medical Assisting can serve as a stepping stone towards a nursing career.  By gaining experience and knowledge as a Medical Assistant, you can build a strong foundation that will be valuable when pursuing an LPN program or even a higher level of nursing education, such as becoming a Registered Nurse (RN).

5.  Flexibility:  Medical Assisting offers flexibility in terms of work settings and schedules.  Medical Assistants can work in hospitals, clinics, outpatient facilities, and other health care settings.  This flexibility can be advantageous if you have specific preferences or constraints in terms of location or work hours.

Ultimately the decision between Medical Assisting and an LPN program depends on your career goals, personal circumstances, and desired level of responsibility within the healthcare field. Talk to an Allen School advisor today. We are here to assist students in making an educated decision about their careers in the medical field. Call the Allen School of Health Sciences to learn more about a Medical Assistant career in the medical field. We are enrolling now for classes starting soon. www.allenschool.edu

Benefits of a Traditional College Student Transferring to the Allen School of Health Sciences Medical Assistant Program.

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The Allen School of Health Sciences Medical Assistant program provides focused and specialized training specifically tailored to the field of medical assisting.  Our program equips students with the necessary skills and knowledge required to excel in their role as a Medical Assistant. Some benefits of transferring from a traditional school include:

  • Accelerated Program:  The Medical Assisting program at the Allen School of Health Sciences is designed so students can graduate in less than a year.  This allows students to enter the workforce sooner compared to pursuing a traditional four-year degree.

  • Hands-On Experience:  The program emphasizes hands-on training, providing students with practical experience in a variety of medical procedures and tasks. This hands-on learning approach can help students develop the necessary skills and confidence to excel in their future medical assisting career.

  • Industry-Focused Curriculum:  The curriculum at the Allen School of Health Sciences is designed with input from industry professionals, ensuring that students are trained in the most current and relevant practices and technologies used in the medical field.

  • Career Support:  The Allen School of Health Sciences offers career services and support to students, including assistance with job placement and resume building.  This can be particularly helpful for students transitioning from a traditional college setting to a career-focused program.

  • Networking Opportunities:  The Allen School of Health Sciences provides opportunities for students to connect with professionals in the healthcare industry.  This can be beneficial for building a professional network and accessing potential job opportunities in the future.

  • Flexibility:  The Allen School of Health Sciences offers a blended program; combining online and hands-on learning in a clinical setting. Classes are conducted in the day or evening to accommodate the needs of students who may be working or have other commitments. This flexibility can make it easier for traditional college students to balance their education with other responsibilities.

It’s important for individuals considering a transfer to the Allen School of Health Sciences Medical Assistant program to thoroughly research and assess their career goals and the specific requirements of the program to ensure it aligns with their aspirations in the medical field. If you are a traditional college student looking to transfer into a medical program, the Allen School of Health Sciences might be the right place for you. To learn more about The Allen School of Health Sciences medical assistant program, contact us today! Enrolling now for classes starting soon. www.allenschool.edu

Why Should a High School Graduate Start Their Medical Career as a Medical Assistant

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There are several reasons why a high school graduate may choose to start their medical career as a Medical Assistant.

1. Gain Hands-On Experience:  Becoming a Medical Assistant provides an opportunity to gain practical experience in a healthcare setting; This experience can be valuable when considering further education or specialization within the medical field. At the Allen School of Health Sciences, we offer a blended program of online and hands-on learning in an interactive clinical setting.

2. Explore Different Medical Specialties:  As a Medical Assistant, one may have the opportunity to work in various departments or specialties, such as pediatrics, cardiology, or dermatology.  This exposure can help individuals determine their areas of interest and decide on a specific career path within medicine.

3. Develop Essential Skills:  Medical assisting involves a wide range of tasks, from taking patient histories and vital signs to assisting with minor procedures and administering medications. Acquiring these skills can be beneficial for personal and professional growth, as they are transferable to other healthcare roles. You will develop the essential skills as a Medical Assistant at the Allen School of Health Sciences. As part of the curriculum at the Allen School of Health Sciences, students will complete 275 internship hours which allows our students to develop the necessary skills to become a successful Medical Assistant; allowing our students to work in the field to develop their skills before graduation.

4. Financial Stability:  Starting a medical career as a Medical Assistant can provide a stable income and financial independence.  It can also serve as a stepping stone for further education and specialization, which may lead to higher earning potential in the future.

5. Fulfilling Patient Interaction:  Medical Assistants often have direct patient contact providing care, support, and reassurance to patients.  This interpersonal aspect of the job can be rewarding and fulfilling, as it allows individuals to make a positive impact on patients’ lives.

It’s important to note that while starting as a Medical Assistant can be a beneficial career choice, further education and specialized training may be required to advance to higher-level positions in the medical field. To learn more about becoming a Medical Assistant, contact the Allen School of Health Sciences today! We are enrolling now for classes starting soon. www.allenschool.edu

What are the Benefits of Becoming a Medical Assistant Before Applying for Nursing School?

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There are several benefits to becoming a Medical Assistant before applying for nursing school:

  1. Gaining Hands-On Experience:  As a Medical Assistant, you will work closely with healthcare professionals and patients, allowing you to gain valuable practical experience in a clinical setting. This experience will give you a deeper understanding of patient care and medical procedures, which can be beneficial when transitioning to nursing school. At the Allen School of Health Sciences, you will experience our blended format of online and hands-on training in a clinical setting.
  1. Developing Strong Foundational Knowledge:  Medical Assistants receive training in various medical concepts including anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, and medical terminology. This knowledge will provide you with a solid foundation that will help you succeed in nursing school, by giving you a head start in understanding the healthcare field. During the Allen School of Health Sciences medical assisting program, students will have 275 hours of internship as part of our program which allows students to receive real-world experience in a clinical setting.
  1. Improving Your Interpersonal Skills:  Working as a Medical Assistant requires frequent interaction with patients, doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals.  This experience will enhance your communication and interpersonal skills, which are essential for building strong relationships with patients and collaborating with the healthcare team as a nurse.
  1. Networking Opportunities:  During your time as a Medical Assistant, you will have the opportunity to build connections with healthcare professionals, including nurses.  These connections can be valuable when applying to nursing school, as they may provide recommendations or guidance during the application process. Our career services team can introduce you to local medical offices, assist students with professional resumes, go over interview skills, and prepare you for an internship.
  1. Confirm Your Passion For Healthcare:  Working as a Medical Assistant can help you confirm your interest and passion for the healthcare field.  It allows you to gain exposure to different aspects of patient care and assess whether nursing is the right career path for you before fully committing to a nursing program.

Overall, becoming a Medical Assistant before applying to nursing school can provide you with valuable experience, knowledge, and skills that will enhance your chances of success in nursing school and as a future nurse. To learn more about The Allen School of Health Sciences Medical Assistant program, contact us today!

Enroll now for classes starting soon!

What are the Administrative Duties of a Medical Assistant?

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The administrative duties of a Medical Assistant typically include:

1) Scheduling Appointments:  Medical Assistants often manage the appointment calendar, patient visit scheduling, follow-ups, and consultations.

2) Greeting Patients:  An MA may welcome and check-in patients, verify their personal and insurance information, and direct them to the appropriate areas.

3) Managing Medical Records:  Medical Assistants maintain patient records, update demographic information, handle record requests, and ensure confidentiality.

4) Billing And Coding:  An MA may assist with medical billing, insurance claims, and coding procedures to ensure accurate and timely reimbursement.

5) Answering Phone Calls: Medical Assistants handle incoming calls, addressing patient inquiries, scheduling requests, and forwarding calls to the appropriate staff members.

6) Insurance Verification:  An MA will verify patient insurance coverage, eligibility, and obtain pre-authorization for procedures or referrals as necessary.

7) Assisting With Documentation:  Medical Assistants may help healthcare providers with documenting patient medical histories, taking vital signs, and recording other relevant information.

8) Managing Inventory And Supplies:  An MA may be responsible for ordering and stocking medical supplies, ensuring the availability of necessary equipment and materials.

9) Coordinating Referrals:  Medical Assistants facilitate patient referrals to specialists, ensuring proper documentation and communication between healthcare providers.

10)  Handling Administrative Tasks:  This includes general office duties like maintaining a clean and organized workspace, managing mail, faxing documents, and other administrative tasks as assigned.

Ready to learn more about the administrative duties of a Medical Assistant and so much more? Contact the Allen School of Health Sciences today! We are enrolling now for classes starting soon. www.allenschool.edu

What are the Clinical Duties of a Medical Assistant?

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The clinical duties of a Medical Assistant include:

  1. Taking Patient Medical Histories:  Recording information about patients’ medical backgrounds including past illnesses, surgeries, and medications.
  1. Assisting With Patient Examinations:  Preparing patients for examinations, taking vital signs such as blood pressure and temperature, and assisting the healthcare provider during the examination.
  1. Administering Medications And Injections:  Under the supervision of a healthcare provider, Medical Assistants may administer medication or give injections to patients.
  1. Collecting And Preparing Laboratory Specimens:  Taking blood, urine, or other samples from patients, labeling them correctly and preparing them for laboratory testing.
  1. Performing Basic Laboratory Tests:  Conducting basic laboratory tests such as urinalysis, EKGs (electrocardiograms), and phlebotomy (drawing blood).
  1. Assisting With Minor Surgical Procedures:  Preparing the surgical area, sterilizing instruments and assisting the healthcare provider during minor surgeries or procedures.
  1. Removing Sutures And Changing Dressings:  Assisting in the removal of sutures or staples and changing dressings on wounds or incisions.
  1. Providing Patient Education:  Offering information to patients about medication dosage, diet and exercise, or post-surgical care.
  1. Managing Medical Equipment:  Maintaining and sterilizing medical instruments and equipment as well as ensuring they are in proper working order.
  1. Maintaining Patient Records:  Updating and organizing patient medical records including documenting patient visits, procedures performed, and test results.

Looking for the clinical skills you need to be a Medical Assistant? The Allen School might be the place for you! Contact us today. We are enrolling now for classes starting soon. www.allenschool.edu

Why Medical Assistants Should Learn to Market Themselves

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Medical Assistants should learn to market themselves for several reasons:

  1. Increased job opportunities:  By marketing themselves effectively, Medical Assistants can differentiate themselves from their competition and increase their chances of securing employment.  Employers are more likely to hire candidates who can effectively communicate their skills, knowledge, and value.
  1. Enhanced professional reputation:  Effective marketing can help Medical Assistants build a strong professional reputation.  By showcasing their expertise and accomplishments, they can establish themselves as competent and reliable professionals in the eyes of employers, colleagues, and patients.
  1. Career advancement:  Marketing oneself can open doors to various career advancement opportunities.  Medical Assistants who can effectively communicate their skills and achievements may be considered for promotions, leadership roles, or specialized positions within healthcare organizations.
  1. Improved patient trust and satisfaction:  Patients often value healthcare providers who can effectively communicate and build rapport.  By marketing themselves, Medical Assistants can demonstrate their professionalism, empathy, and commitment to patient care, thereby improving patient trust and satisfaction.
  1. Professional networking:  Effective marketing can help Medical Assistants expand their professional network.  By attending conferences, joining professional associations, and utilizing online platforms, they can connect with other healthcare professionals, potential employers, and mentors who can offer guidance and support.
  1. Continuing education opportunities:  Marketing oneself can also lead to opportunities for continuing education and professional development.  Medical Assistants who actively promote their skills and expertise may be more likely to be considered for training programs, workshops, or certifications that can enhance their knowledge and expand their career options.

At the Allen School of Health Sciences, our students work with the career services team, who can introduce them to local medical offices, assist with cover letters and professional resumes, go over solid interview skills including attire and talking points, provide internship opportunities and continued partnership beyond graduation. In summary, learning to market oneself is essential for Medical Assistants to stand out in a competitive job market, advance their careers, build professional relationships, and provide excellent patient care.

To learn more about how the Allen School of Health Sciences assists their students, contact us today. We are enrolling now for classes starting soon and want to see you as a part of our Allen School family. www.allenschool.edu

Benefits of an Allen School MA Graduate, Taking a Healthcare Management Certificate Program

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Benefits of an Allen School Medical Assistant Graduate Taking a Healthcare Management Certificate Program

There are several benefits to an Allen School Medical Assistant graduate, taking a Healthcare Management Certificate program . Here are a few:

  1. Expanded career opportunities:  By obtaining a Healthcare Management Certificate (HMC), an MA graduate can expand their career opportunities beyond the role of a Medical Assistant. They can pursue positions in healthcare management, administration, or leadership in medical offices, hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare facilities.
  1. Increased earning potential:  With additional knowledge and skills in healthcare management, graduates may have the potential to earn higher salaries compared to Medical Assistants. Management positions often come with higher salaries and greater responsibility.
  1. Comprehensive understanding of healthcare operations:  The Healthcare Management Certificate program provides a comprehensive understanding of healthcare operations including human resources and strategic planning. This knowledge can help graduates navigate the complex healthcare industry and make informed decisions.
  1. Leadership skills development:  The program focuses on developing leadership skills necessary to effectively manage teams and projects in healthcare settings. This can help graduates in their career growth and advancement opportunities.
  1. Networking opportunities:  The certificate program offers opportunities to network with professionals in the healthcare management field. Connecting with industry experts and peers can be valuable for career growth and learning from others’ experiences.
  1. Enhanced patient care:  With a deeper understanding of healthcare management, graduates can contribute to improving patient care by implementing efficient processes, managing resources effectively, and ensuring compliance with healthcare regulations.

Overall, the Healthcare Management Certificate program can provide Allen School Medical Assistant graduates with the skills, knowledge, and credentials needed to pursue rewarding careers in healthcare management. This program is only for Allen School Medical Assistant graduates. We are enrolling now for classes starting soon. Contact us today! www.allenschool.edu