Medical Assistant - Live Online

193 Hours / Access Length: Schedule Varies / Delivery: Live Online, Instructor Led
Retail Price: $3,495.00

Course Overview:

93 Hours Synchronous Learning / 100 Hours Online Learning

In this course, we will explore the profession of medical assisting by looking at the role of the medical assistant, the importance of health records, and key terminology in the field. We will learn the fundamentals of medical assisting such as infection control and medical emergencies. Assisting with medications, helping with the different medical specialties, and working with the clinical lab are topics that will be explored.

ProTrain has integrated SimTutor’s SIMTICS simulations into its online Medical Assistant course. Students can practice real-world medical scenarios in a safe environment, developing critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Through immediate feedback and reflection, students gain confidence and are better prepared for their future careers.

Students will:

• Describe the roles and responsibilities of a typical medical assistant.
• Discuss the importance of patient health records. 
• Use anatomical and medical vocabulary correctly. 
• Explain the role of medical assistants in infection control. 
• Identify the average body temperature, pulse rate, respiratory rate, and blood pressure for various age groups. 
• Identify typical solutions, medications, and equipment used in minor surgical procedures.
• Detail the medical assistant's role in minor office surgeries.
• Identify the classifications of medications, including the indications for use, desired effects, side effects, adverse reactions, forms, and medical administration.
• Summarize the important parts of a drug label.
• Describe how a medical assistant should assist in various medical specialties. 
• Explain how the medical assistant works with the clinical laboratory. 
• Explain best practices in searching for a job in medical assisting.

Recommended Prerequisites:  High School Graduate or GED holder.

Course Exam

This course prepares the student to take the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) Medical Assistant Certification (CCMA) national certification exam.

Course Outline:

Lesson 1: The Professional Medical Assistant

In this lesson, you will examine the history of medical assisting and the process of program accreditation. You will learn about professional credentials, traits, and workplace expectations, along with time management and scope of practice. The lesson also reviews administrative and clinical responsibilities, professional organizations, and the diverse employment opportunities available in this field.

Lesson 2: Ethics and Law for the Medical Office

In this lesson, you will study the relationship between law and ethics in health care and how they shape the responsibilities of medical assistants. You will learn about patient rights, professional duties, and responses to ethical challenges, while also reviewing legal concepts such as contracts, liability, and regulations. The lesson covers HIPAA, reporting requirements, and state and federal laws that guide medical practice.

Lesson 3: Interacting With Patients

In this lesson, you will develop an understanding of the skills needed to communicate clearly and respectfully with patients by understanding verbal, nonverbal, and cultural differences. You will learn the components of active listening, boundary setting, and empathy to strengthen patient relationships. The lesson also addresses meeting patient needs, handling emotional responses, and supporting individuals across diverse backgrounds and experiences in health care.

Lesson 4: Introduction to Anatomy and Physiology

In this lesson, you will build a foundation for understanding how the human body is organized and functions. You will examine the relationship between anatomy and physiology, explore cells, tissues, and organ systems, and learn how homeostasis is maintained. The lesson also introduces anatomic terminology, body cavities, and cellular processes essential to health and medical practice.

Lesson 5: Integumentary System

In this lesson, you will explore how the skin and its supporting structures protect the body and contribute to overall health. You will study the roles of hair, nails, and glands, the factors that influence skin color, and the impact of aging.

Lesson 6: Skeletal System

In this lesson, you will learn how the skeletal system supports and protects the body while enabling movement. You will review bone structure, growth, and classification, as well as the organization of the axial and appendicular skeletons. The lesson also examines joints,

Lesson 7: Muscular System

In this lesson, you will study the structure and function of muscle tissue and how skeletal muscles contract to produce movement. You will see how energy and oxygen influence muscle performance, learn the major muscles of the body, and common disorders that impact this system.

Lesson 8: Nervous System

In this lesson, you will explore how the nervous system is organized to control and coordinate body functions. It covers the roles of neurons, neuroglia, and nerve pathways, as well as the brain, spinal cord, and cranial nerves. You’ll learn autonomic functions and disorders that can disrupt neural activity.

Lesson 9: The Senses

In this lesson, you will learn how the body gathers and interprets information through general and special senses. You will review receptors for touch, taste, smell, vision, and hearing, along with the structures that make these processes possible. The lesson addresses balance, normal sensory functions, and common disorders affecting the senses.

Lesson 10: Endocrine System

In this lesson, you will review how the endocrine system works in coordination with the nervous system to regulate essential body processes. You’ll study how hormones are produced, classified, and delivered to target tissues, and examine their impact on growth, metabolism, reproduction, and homeostasis. Finally, you’ll cover common disorders that affect the endocrine system and their implications for health.

Lesson 11: Circulatory System

In this lesson, you will explore how the heart, blood, and vessels work together to sustain life. You will trace blood flow, study the cardiac cycle, and learn how blood components and the lymphatic system support immunity and overall health. The lesson also considers aging, defense mechanisms, and common disorders affecting circulation.

Lesson 12: Respiratory System

In this lesson, you will study the structures of the upper and lower respiratory tracts and how they function in breathing. You will learn the mechanics of inhalation and exhalation, the distinction between external and internal respiration, and how the brain regulates this process. You will review factors influencing breathing and respiratory disorders.

Lesson 13: Digestive System

In this lesson, you will study how the digestive tract and accessory organs break down food and supply the body with nutrients. You will look at the roles of the oral cavity, stomach, intestines, and glands in digestion and absorption, while also reviewing conditions that may interfere with normal digestive function.

Lesson 14: Urinary System

In this lesson, you will study how the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra work together to remove waste and regulate fluid balance. You will review the steps of urine formation, examine the role of hormones in kidney function, and learn how this system contributes to maintaining overall stability in the body.

Lesson 15: Reproductive System

In this lesson, you will examine the structures and functions of the male and female reproductive systems, including gamete formation, hormonal regulation, and reproductive cycles. You will follow the processes of fertilization, prenatal development, and birth, while also learning about lactation and stages of postnatal growth.

Lesson 16: Medical Asepsis and the OSHA Standard

In this lesson, you review how infection develops, what conditions allow microorganisms to thrive, and the role of aseptic practices in breaking the cycle of disease. You will also study OSHA’s Bloodborne Pathogens Standard, requirements for handling medical waste, and the major risks posed by bloodborne diseases such as hepatitis and HIV.

Lesson 17: Sterilization and Disinfection

In this lesson, you will learn how instruments and equipment are cleaned, disinfected, and sterilized to prevent the spread of infection. You will review the Hazard Communication Standard, the use of safety data sheets, and the role of sanitization and disinfection. The lesson also examines autoclave operation, sterilization indicators, alternative methods, and proper handling of sterile supplies.

Lesson 18: Vital Signs

In this lesson, you will study how vital signs reflect a patient’s overall health and the body’s ability to maintain balance. You will learn how temperature, pulse, respiration, oxygen saturation, and blood pressure are measured and interpreted. The lesson also explores factors that influence these readings and the clinical importance of recognizing abnormal results.

Lesson 19: The Physical Examination

In this lesson, you will learn how the physical examination is organized and the role of the medical assistant in supporting both the patient and the provider. You will review preparation of the examining room, methods for measuring weight and height, and principles of body mechanics, positioning, and draping. The lesson also covers examination techniques and professional responsibilities during the visit.

Midterm Exam

Lesson 20: Eye and Ear Assessment and Procedures

In this lesson, you will study common conditions that affect vision and hearing, along with the methods used to assess sensory function. The lesson covers visual acuity testing, color vision assessment, and the use of the Snellen chart. The lesson also introduces hearing evaluations, causes of hearing loss, and procedures such as irrigations and instillations for both eyes and ears.

Lesson 21: Gynecologic and Prenatal Care

In this lesson, you will study the purposes and procedures of gynecologic and prenatal examinations. You will review breast and pelvic assessments, cervical cancer screening, and common gynecologic infections. The lesson also introduces prenatal records, laboratory testing, and monitoring methods used throughout pregnancy, emphasizing the role of medical assistants in supporting patient education and coordinated care.

Lesson 22: The Pediatric Examination

In this lesson, you will learn about the components of well-child and sick-child visits and the importance of building rapport with young patients. You will review growth measurements, blood pressure evaluation, and immunization guidelines, as well as the collection of pediatric specimens. The lesson also covers newborn screening tests and their role in identifying conditions early in life.

Lesson 23: Minor Office Surgery

In this lesson, you will explore the principles of surgical asepsis and the role of the medical assistant in supporting minor procedures. You will review wound types, phases of healing, and methods of wound closure such as sutures, staples, and adhesives. The lesson also covers common office-based surgeries and the use of bandages to protect and support recovery.

Lesson 24: Administration of Medication

In this lesson, you will study how medications are classified, prescribed, and administered, along with the factors that influence their effects on the body. You will review drug forms, routes of administration, and safety standards for controlled substances. The lesson also introduces oral, parenteral, and specialized testing procedures.

Lesson 25: Cardiopulmonary Procedures

In this lesson, you will learn how electrocardiography and pulmonary function testing are used to evaluate heart and lung health. It covers the components of an ECG, the purpose of Holter monitoring, and common cardiac dysrhythmias. The lesson also provides an overview of spirometry, asthma management, and home oxygen therapy, emphasizing accurate testing, patient preparation, and safe use of equipment.

Lesson 26: Specialty Tests and Procedures

In this lesson, you will examine diagnostic methods used to detect and monitor serious health conditions. You will learn about colorectal, prostate, and testicular cancer screenings, along with the preparation and procedures for sigmoidoscopy and colonoscopy. The lesson also introduces radiology and advanced imaging techniques, along with their role in diagnosis, treatment planning, and ongoing patient care.

Lesson 27: Introduction to the Clinical Laboratory

This lessons covers how laboratory testing supports diagnosis and treatment by providing critical information about the body’s condition. You will review the functions of a physician’s office laboratory, laboratory requests and reports, and patient preparation requirements. You’ll see how specimen collection, CLIA-waived testing, and safety practices ensure accurate results and protect both staff and patients.

Lesson 28: Urinalysis

In this lesson, you will explore how the urinary system functions and how urine provides valuable information about a patient’s health. You will learn the purposes of different collection methods, the components of a routine urinalysis, and the factors that may alter results. The lesson also introduces urine pregnancy testing and its role in clinical practice.

Lesson 29: Phlebotomy

In this lesson, you will study the principles of blood collection and the techniques used to obtain specimens safely and accurately. It covers venipuncture methods, the purpose of different collection tubes, and the order of draw. The lesson also provides and overview of safety precautions, common complications, and situations where skin puncture is preferred for specimen collection.

Lesson 30: Blood Chemistry and Immunologic Testing

In this lesson, you will examine how blood chemistry testing is used to evaluate organ function, regulate diabetes care, and assess cardiovascular health. You will also review the role of quality control in ensuring accurate results and learn how immunologic testing assists in detecting infections, immune disorders, and compatibility for blood transfusion.

Lesson 31: Medical Microbiology

In this lesson, you will learn how microorganisms are classified and linked to infectious diseases, as well as the ways pathogens spread through the body and community. You will understand how to  use a microscope, review safe specimen collection, and study diagnostic methods such as rapid tests, cultures, and sensitivity procedures that guide treatment decisions.

Lesson 32: Nutrition

In this lesson, you will explore the nutrients essential for life and how they fuel and regulate the body. You will learn the differences between macronutrients and micronutrients, how to interpret food labels, and the principles behind dietary guidelines. You will also review therapeutic approaches that use nutrition to manage health conditions.

Lesson 33: Emergency Medical Procedures and First Aid

In this lesson, you will study how to recognize and respond to urgent medical situations. You will learn the purpose of first aid and the role of the EMS system, along with OSHA standards for emergency care. The lesson covers a wide range of conditions, including respiratory distress, shock, injuries, burns, poisoning, seizures, and diabetic complications.

Lesson 34: The Medical Record

In this lesson, you will compare paper-based and electronic records to see how each organizes patient information. You will review administrative details such as consent forms and privacy notices, explore how health histories and progress notes are documented, and understand how laboratory results and diagnostic reports are stored and used in patient care.

Lesson 35: Patient Reception

In this lesson, you will learn how to prepare the medical office for daily operations and manage the steps involved in opening and closing procedures. You will review how to greet patients, collect required information, verify insurance coverage, and maintain confidentiality while also providing new patients with clear information about office policies and available resources.

Lesson 36: Telephone Techniques

In this lesson, you will learn how professional telephone skills contribute to patient satisfaction and effective office communication. You will review call screening, message taking, and handling of urgent or difficult situations. The lesson also explains how to manage different types of phone systems and outlines best practices for making outgoing calls in a medical setting.

Lesson 37: Scheduling Appointments

In this lesson, you will explore how effective scheduling keeps the medical office organized and ensures patients receive timely care. You will compare manual and computerized systems, examine different scheduling formats, and learn how to prioritize appointments based on patient needs.

Lesson 38: Medical Record Management

In this lesson, you will learn how both electronic and paper-based systems are organized and maintained in a medical office. You will review the efficiencies gained through EHR use, the importance of safeguarding patient information, and the supplies and procedures required for paper records. Different filing methods and guidelines for record retention are also addressed.

Lesson 39: Written Communications and Mail

In this lesson, you will study the different forms of written communication used in the medical office, from formal business letters to memoranda, email, and secure messaging. You will understand formatting, proofreading, and proper addressing standards, along with the handling of incoming and outgoing mail. The lesson also covers postal services, delivery options, and methods for preparing envelopes and labels.

Lesson 40: Medical Coding

In this lesson, you will learn why coding systems were developed and how they are organized for use in health care. The lesson explains CPT and HCPCS codes for procedures and ICD-10-CM codes for diagnoses, along with the principles that guide accurate code selection and the consequences of coding errors.

Lesson 41: Medical Insurance

In this lesson, you will review the development of health insurance in the United States and the major ways coverage is obtained. You will compare traditional and managed care plans, including Medicare, Medicaid, and other government programs. The lesson also explains how patient information is collected, eligibility verified, and insurance claims processed in compliance with plan requirements.

Lesson 42: Billing and Collections

In this lesson, you will learn how billing and collection processes are managed in a medical office. The content explains how patient statements are generated, how to handle issues such as returned checks and overpayments, and how aging reports guide follow-up. You will also see how collection systems are developed and shaped by legal requirements.

Final Exam

Instructional Strategies:

• Self-Directed Study
• Skills Demonstration
• Online Activities

Methods of Evaluation:

• Quizzes & Exams
• Skills Demonstration
• Learner-Centered Activities

Instructor Biography:

Coming soon!

Grading System:

Student must complete the course with a final average grade of 70% to be eligible for a Certificate of Completion.

Attendance:

Students are expected to arrive on time and participate in course discussions. Successful completion of the course of study recommends 100% attendance. If during the course period the student’s attendance level drops below 80%, they will be encouraged and given the opportunity to attend the next scheduled class for the course they enrolled in. Should materials change, student is responsible for all additional cost.

Refund Policy: 

There can be no refund for the course, once the first class has been concluded; or if any course material, including the eBook, is accessed. If extenuating circumstances exist, case by case situations will be reviewed by ProTrain. If a refund is issued, the refunded amount (- a $25 processing fee) will be dependent upon books being returned in excellent condition (i.e. no writing, missing pages; ripped or damage to pages and/or binding).

Payment Plan Policy:

Students may withdraw from the program for any reason up to 1 week prior to the start of program. In this case, the student’s payment plan agreement shall be rescinded. If the payment plan has begun a non-refundable administrative fee of $25.00 will be assessed and remaining funds will be returned to payer in check form by mail. 

Re-Admission Policy:

Any student who has dropped out of the program, or has been suspended from the program for nonattendance may be readmitted within one year by completing a personal interview with the director of education and paying any applicable fees at the time of readmission. Students who were terminated due to conduct issues are not eligible to be readmitted.

Policy on Student Conduct:

All students are expected to conduct themselves in an orderly and professional manner. Any student not conducting themselves in an orderly and professional manner, which includes use of drugs and alcohol during school hours, dishonesty, disrupting classes, use of profanity, excessive tardiness, insubordination, violation of safety rules, improper usage of lab or classroom computers, or not abiding by the school rules will lead to either probation or dismissal from classes.

System Requirements:

Internet Connectivity Requirements:

• Cable, Fiber, DSL, or LEO Satellite (i.e. Starlink) internet with speeds of at least 10mb/sec download and 5mb/sec upload are recommended for the best experience.

NOTE: While cellular hotspots may allow access to our courses, users may experience connectivity issues by trying to access our learning management system.  This is due to the potential high download and upload latency of cellular connections.   Therefore, it is not recommended that students use a cellular hotspot as their primary way of accessing their courses.

Hardware Requirements:

• CPU: 1 GHz or higher
• RAM: 4 GB or higher
• Resolution: 1280 x 720 or higher.  1920x1080 resolution is recommended for the best experience.
• Speakers / Headphones
• Microphone for Webinar or Live Online sessions.

Operating System Requirements:

• Windows 7 or higher.
• Mac OSX 10 or higher.
• Latest Chrome OS
• Latest Linux Distributions
  

NOTE: While we understand that our courses can be viewed on Android and iPhone devices, we do not recommend the use of these devices for our courses. The size of these devices do not provide a good learning environment for students taking online or live online based courses.

Web Browser Requirements:

• Latest Google Chrome is recommended for the best experience.
• Latest Mozilla FireFox
• Latest Microsoft Edge
• Latest Apple Safari

Basic Software Requirements (These are recommendations of software to use):

• Office suite software (Microsoft Office, OpenOffice, or LibreOffice)
• PDF reader program (Adobe Reader, FoxIt)
• Courses may require other software that is described in the above course outline.