Catalog 2023-2024

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Clinical Assistant

Certificate of Achievement

The Clinical Assistant Certificate program is designed for those who are interested in working in a back office setting in a clinic or out-patient facility. Duties would include: obtaining and recording patient's height, weight, temperature, and blood pressure; obtaining health histories; performing basic lab tests; preparing/assisting with patient examinations; recording EKG and sterilizing surgical instruments. The program also includes instruction in medical law and ethics, interpersonal communication, patient care, appointment scheduling, telephone technique, and electronic medical records management. Upon completion of all the required courses (34.5 units), students are assisted with the placement of an internship in a local health care facility. Background checks and drug testing are now required prior to entry. Possible career pathways include: Clinical Medical Assistant, EKG Technician, Emergency Department Technician, and Orthopedic Technician (if an additional 240-hour internship in Orthopedics is completed.)

Program Requirements (34.5 units)

Course NumberCourse TitleUnits
HTCH001Introduction to Health Care1 unit
HTCH002Medical Information Processing2 units
HTCH004Structure and Function of the Human Body3 units
HTCH005Basic Medical Terminology3 units
HTCH006Advanced Medical Terminology3 units
HTCH007Medical Ethics & Law2 units
HTCH008Communication for Health Care Personnel2 units
HTCH041Medical Office Business Procedures3 units
HTCH044Electronic Medical Records2 units
HTCH054AInternship for Health Care Technologies2 units
HTCH055Vital Signs and Assisting with Medical Examinations2 units
HTCH057Sterile Techniques2.5 units
HTCH058Laboratory Techniques3 units
HTCH063Medication Administration1.5 units
HTCH064ECG and Orthopedic Technology2.5 units

Total Certificate Units: 34.5 units

To be awarded a certificate, a student must:

  1. Complete all the major requirements.
  2. Earn a grade of “C” (or "P") or better for all required courses.

Upon successful completion of this program a student will be able to:

  • Demonstrate the ability to access and input patient information using electronic medical records systems.
  • Demonstrate the ability to assist medical care providers in delivering patient care.
  • Demonstrate the ability to perform basic medical front office responsibilities.
Last Updated 7/19/23