Medical Assistant Course Descriptions
MEDA 100: MA: Basic Clinical Skills
Credits: 6.0Prerequisite(s): Completion of or concurrent enrollment in AHE 110, AHE 115, HCA 104.
Course Level Objectives
- Demonstrate professional, empathetic, and culturally sensitive patient interactions using critical thinking, communication, and self-awareness with patients and healthcare teams.
- Perform and document basic clinical procedures accurately by measuring and recording vital signs, conducting patient screenings, assisting with examinations, and preparing patients for procedures according to established protocols.
- Apply infection control principles and standard precautions through effective hand hygiene, personal protective equipment
- Demonstrate knowledge of anatomy, physiology, and disease processes by identifying body systems, major organs, common pathologies, and related medical terminology.
- Educate and support patients in health promotion, nutrition, and self-care using age- and culture-appropriate communication and coaching techniques while maintaining ethical and professional standards of care.
- Practice safe, ethical, and legal behavior in healthcare by demonstrating professional conduct, understanding scope of practice, and following ethical and legal guidelines.
MEDA 118: MA: Diagnostic Procedures
Credits: 3.0This course prepares students in the safe and accurate performance of diagnostic procedures common to ambulatory care, including specimen collection, capillary puncture, and pulmonary function testing. Students gain hands-on experience with laboratory tests, quality control, and equipment maintenance, building the professional skills needed to meet Medical Assisting Education Review Board (MAERB) competencies and Washington State standards for medical assistants. Prerequisite(s): Completion of AHE 112, AHE 141, and MEDA 200, all with a minimum grade of 2.0 or equivalent is required to take this course.
Course Level Objectives
- Demonstrate competency in diagnostic and laboratory procedures by accurately performing electrocardiography, pulmonary function testing, venipuncture, and capillary puncture in accordance with established safety and procedural standards.
- Collect and process specimens by performing CLIA-waived tests in hematology, chemistry, urinalysis, immunology, and microbiology, and accurately record results in patient records.
- Apply quality assurance and equipment maintenance principles by performing routine checks, maintaining diagnostic instruments, and managing laboratory inventory in compliance with regulatory and safety standards.
- Interpret and communicate diagnostic data by distinguishing normal and abnormal results, recording findings clearly, and communicating professionally and ethically with patients and healthcare providers.
MEDA 120: MA: Administrative Skills
Credits: 3.0This course prepares students to manage key operations of a modern medical office, including patient scheduling, electronic records, billing, and professional communication. Emphasis is placed on supporting patient care, maintaining ethical and legal standards, and mastering essential administrative skills for success in ambulatory healthcare environments.
Course Level Objectives
- Apply professional communication and technology skills to manage patient interactions, telehealth services, correspondence, appointment scheduling, and electronic health records using secure and ethical practices.
- Manage healthcare office operations by prioritizing patient scheduling, maintaining inventory and equipment, ensuring data security and backup, and supporting efficient and organized workflows.
- Perform accurate insurance, billing, and coding procedures by verifying eligibility, completing and submitting claim forms, applying correct procedural and diagnostic codes, and monitoring reimbursement and financial adjustments in compliance with healthcare regulations.
- Demonstrate administrative professionalism and ethical responsibility by protecting patient confidentiality, maintaining HIPAA-compliant documentation, educating patients on office policies and financial obligations, and ensuring clear communication among providers, patients, and community resources.
MEDA 200: MA: Advanced Clinical Skills
Credits: 5.0Prerequisite(s): MEDA 100
Course Level Objectives
- Demonstrate proficiency in pharmacology, medication, and vaccine administration through accurate drug preparation, administration, and adherence to recommended immunization schedules.
- Apply infection prevention and aseptic techniques by maintaining sterile fields, performing wound care and sterilization, and properly managing biohazardous materials.
- Perform and document essential clinical procedures by conducting patient screenings, preparing patients for examinations and treatments, assisting providers, and accurately maintaining clinical records according to established protocols.
- Promote safety, emergency preparedness, and regulatory compliance by following protocols, using equipment properly, and meeting legal and ethical standards.
- Communicate effectively in patient care by educating, coaching, and collaborating with diverse patients and the healthcare team using appropriate documentation and terminology.
MEDA 205: MA Transition to Practice: Clinical
Credits: 5.0This clinical practicum provides supervised, hands-on experience in a professional healthcare setting where students apply the clinical, administrative, and patient care skills gained throughout the Medical Assisting Program. Under the supervision of qualified clinical site representatives and faculty, students will perform direct patient care and administrative tasks while upholding legal, ethical, and professional standards. Prerequisite(s): MEDA 100, MEDA 118, MEDA 120, MEDA 200 Corequisite(s):
Course Level Objectives
- Safely and efficiently perform patient care and administrative tasks on real patients under supervised clinical conditions, applying knowledge and skills acquired in the Medical Assisting Program.
- Incorporate constructive feedback from clinic supervisors, staff, and faculty to improve competence, foster professional growth, and build advanced clinical skills.
- Accurately record, submit, and maintain all required practicum paperwork, including documentation of skills performed, hours, and self-evaluations, in compliance with program and clinical site standards.
- Participate in case-based discussion and reflective activities while demonstrating protection of patient and student confidentiality in all communications.
- Demonstrate ethical, legal, and culturally sensitive decision-making in clinical practice by addressing clinical reasoning, community diversity, and empathy toward patients and colleagues.
- Exhibit job readiness and professional development by practicing interviewing techniques, preparing a functional resume and cover letter, and completing self-reflection assignments relating practicum experiences to future career goals.