Medical Assistant Courses

HCA 110    5 credits
Medical Office I
Beginning skills for use in a business office, including computer systems, reception, appointment scheduling, office mail, telephone skills and medical filing procedures. Prerequisite: acceptance into the medical assistant program or instructor’s signature.

HCA 111    5 credits
Body Structure and Function
Study of body structure and function of body systems and related diseases commonly associated with each system. Diagnostic and laboratory procedures used for diagnoses are discussed throughout the course. Prerequisite: acceptance into the medical assistant program or instructor’s signature.

HCA 112    5 credits
Pharmacology
Basic concepts of pharmacology, including basic drug categories and use of most commonly prescribed medications in the medical office. Includes a review of math concepts related to medications, dose calculations, administration principles, injection preparation and site choice, and safety practices associated with medication administration. Prerequisite: acceptance into the medical assistant program or instructor’s signature.

HCA 113    1 credit
HIV/AIDS Education
Meets requirements of the AIDS Omnibus Bill passed by the Washington state Legislature regarding HIV/AIDS education for employees working in a health-care setting. OSHA’s bloodborne pathogens standard concerning universal precautions is emphasized. Prerequisite: acceptance into the medical assistant program or instructor’s signature.

HCA 115    7 credits
Clinical Procedures I
Introduction to clinical procedures for the medical office, including taking a medical history, exam room preparations, vital signs and measurements, assisting with minor surgery, medical asepsis and infection control, universal precautions for blood and body fluids, principles of rehabilitation and charting. Prerequisite: acceptance into the medical assistant program or instructor’s signature.

HCA 116    3 credits
Office Communications
Includes integrated computer applications and development of professional written communication skills for use in the medical office, and principles of customer relations. Prerequisite: acceptance into the medical assistant program or instructor’s signature.

HCA 118    2 credits
Medical Law and Ethics
Study of workplace legalities, including a basic overview of the legal system and legal and ethical considerations for the medical assistant in the medical office. Topics include medical records, management, medical contracts, concepts of health-care reform and workplace responsibilities, including confidentiality, informed consent and patient rights. Prerequisite: acceptance into the medical assistant program or instructor’s signature.

HCA 120    5 credits
Medical Office II: Advanced Office Skills
Develops advanced skill in the use of computer systems for office billing procedures, including established accounts, accounts receivable and accounts payable, payroll inventory control, collections, and purchasing. Explores the basic types of medical insurance, study of claims processing and third-party reimbursement. Prerequisites: HCA 110 or instructor’s signature.

HCA 125    7 credits
Clinical Procedures II
Covers the principles of nutrition and dietary modifications as a form of treatment. Students develop clinical skills in the following areas: care of cardiac patients (including EKGs), pediatrics, reproductive health, GI, pulmonary, ortho, neuro and EENT. Prerequisites: acceptance into the medical assistant program and continued good standing in program.

HCA 135    7 credits
Clinical Procedures III
General introduction to the medical laboratory and use of the microscope. Topics of study include principles of safe specimen collection, handling and testing, phlebotomy; introduction to microbiology and hematology with special attention given to CLIA waived testing, urinalysis, principles of safe medication administration, and care of the diabetic patient. Prerequisites: acceptance into the medical assistant program, continued good standing in program.

HCA 260    8 credits
Externship for Health Care Assistants
Application of knowledge and skill in an unpaid experience in a medical office (160 hours). Prerequisites: HCA 115, 125, 135.

HCA 265    2 credits
Externship Seminar
Focus is on the externship experience (HCA/MA 260) and the student’s transition from student to professional medical assistant. Prerequisite: concurrent enrollment in HCA 260.