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Medical Assisting Services is a degree category that consists of the following common degrees:
- Read more about Clinical Medical AssistingIn the US, a clinical medical assisting degree is a specialized program offered by vocational schools, community colleges, and some universities. This degree program focuses specifically on preparing students for a career as a clinical medical assistant. It provides comprehensive training in both the administrative and clinical aspects of medical assisting. The curriculum of a clinical medical assisting degree program typically includes coursework and practical training in areas such as medical terminology, anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, medical office procedures, medical coding and billing, patient care techniques, laboratory procedures, and diagnostic testing. Students gain knowledge and skills in medical documentation, patient scheduling, medical billing software, vital signs measurement, specimen collection, medical assisting ethics, and infection control. The program often includes hands-on clinical experiences, such as externships or practicum placements, where students work in real healthcare settings under the supervision of experienced medical professionals. These practical experiences allow students to apply their classroom learning in a real-world healthcare environment, interact with patients, and develop essential clinical skills. Upon completion of a clinical medical assisting degree program, graduates are equipped with the necessary knowledge and skills to work as clinical medical assistants in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, physician offices, and outpatient care centers. They can perform a wide range of tasks related to patient care, including taking vital signs, assisting with medical examinations, performing basic laboratory tests, administering medications, and providing patient education. It’s important to note that a clinical medical assisting degree is not always required to work as a medical assistant. Some individuals enter the field through shorter certificate or diploma programs, which focus more specifically on the clinical aspects of medical assisting. However, obtaining a clinical medical assisting degree can provide a more comprehensive and in-depth education, enhancing job prospects and opportunities for advancement in the field. **Schools** There are several well-regarded programs across the country that consistently receive positive reviews and have a track record of producing competent medical assistants. Here are a few notable programs: - Everest College: Located in several states across the US, Everest College offers a Clinical Medical Assisting program that provides comprehensive training in both clinical and administrative skills. They focus on hands-on learning experiences and offer externship opportunities for real-world practice. - Pima Medical Institute: With campuses in multiple states, Pima Medical Institute offers a Clinical Medical Assistant program that prepares students for entry-level positions in healthcare. Their program includes both classroom instruction and practical training in clinical procedures and administrative tasks. - Herzing University: Herzing University has campuses in several states and offers a Clinical Medical Assisting program that combines classroom learning with hands-on experience. The program covers topics such as medical terminology, anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, and clinical procedures. - Carrington College: Carrington College has campuses in multiple states and offers a Clinical Medical Assisting program that prepares students for a career in healthcare. The program includes a combination of classroom instruction, laboratory practice, and externship opportunities. - Rasmussen College: Rasmussen College offers a Clinical Medical Assisting diploma program at various campuses across the US. The program covers medical terminology, clinical procedures, pharmacology, and administrative tasks. They also provide hands-on training in simulated lab settings.
- Read more about Veterinary Technology
Note - there is a difference between a veterinary technologist and a veterinary technician. Veterinary technologists have completed a four-year bachelor’s degree in veterinary technology, while veterinary technicians have completed a two-year associate degree. Earning an associate degree can be a good first step into the field. It allows you to enter the workforce sooner and quickly learn entry-level job duties. If you decide to pursue more education, you’ll find your responsibilities as a veterinary technologist will be more advanced. Both technologists and technicians must become registered, licensed, or certified depending on their state requirements.
- Read more about Anesthesiologist Assistant
Anesthesiology is the practice of medicine dedicated to the relief of pain and total care of the surgical patient before, during, and after surgery.
Anesthesiologist assistants are highly skilled healthcare professionals who work under the direction of an anesthesiologist — a licensed specialized physician — to implement anesthesia care plans. Their responsibilities include taking patient health histories to identify any issues that may affect the anesthesia care plan, administering diagnostic tests, preparing patients to be monitored, and assisting with preparatory procedures, pre-testing and calibrating of anesthesia delivery systems and monitors, and life support.
Student learning outcomes in anesthesiology assistance programs include patient care, integration of basic medical knowledge into clinical practice, clinical management, professionalism, and communication.
- Read more about Chiropractic TechnologyA chiropractic technology degree, also known as a chiropractic technology program or chiropractic assistant program, is an educational program designed to train individuals in the specialized skills and knowledge required to assist chiropractors in their practice. It focuses on providing students with a solid foundation in the principles and practices of chiropractic care, as well as the technical skills necessary to effectively support chiropractic physicians. The curriculum of a chiropractic technology program typically covers a wide range of subjects related to chiropractic medicine. Students learn about anatomy and physiology, including specific knowledge of the musculoskeletal system and its relationship to overall health. They study chiropractic techniques and modalities, such as spinal adjustments, therapeutic exercises, and physiotherapy. Additionally, courses in radiology and diagnostic imaging are often included to teach students how to assist with taking and analyzing X-rays. In addition to the theoretical knowledge, chiropractic technology programs emphasize practical skills training. Students learn how to prepare treatment rooms, assist with patient examinations, and perform administrative tasks such as scheduling appointments, maintaining patient records, and handling billing and insurance documentation. They are also trained in therapeutic modalities like ultrasound, electrical stimulation, and heat/cold therapy. Chiropractic technology programs typically vary in duration, ranging from one to two years, depending on the institution and the level of certification or degree offered. Some programs may culminate in a certificate or diploma, while others may lead to an associate degree. Upon completion of a chiropractic technology program, graduates are prepared to work as chiropractic assistants or chiropractic technicians. They can find employment opportunities in chiropractic clinics, rehabilitation centers, sports medicine facilities, and other healthcare settings where chiropractic care is provided. Chiropractic technology professionals play an essential role in supporting chiropractors, assisting with patient care, and ensuring the smooth operation of the practice. It’s important to note that a chiropractic technology degree is distinct from a [Doctor of Chiropractic (D.C.) degree](/degrees/chiropractic-degree/), which is a professional degree required to become a licensed chiropractor. A chiropractic technology degree program focuses on the supportive aspects of chiropractic care and does not qualify graduates to practice chiropractic independently. **Schools** Here are a few notable schools in the US that offer chiropractic technology or chiropractic assistant programs: - Parker University (Dallas, Texas): Parker University offers a Chiropractic Assistant program that provides students with the skills and knowledge necessary to support chiropractors in clinical settings. The program covers topics such as anatomy, chiropractic principles, radiology, patient care, and administrative tasks. - Life University (Marietta, Georgia): Life University is renowned for its Doctor of Chiropractic program, but it also offers a Chiropractic Technologist program. This program provides students with a strong foundation in chiropractic principles, radiology, chiropractic techniques, therapeutic modalities, and patient communication. - Cleveland University-Kansas City (Overland Park, Kansas): Cleveland University-Kansas City offers an Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) degree program in Chiropractic Technology. This comprehensive program covers various aspects of chiropractic care, including radiology, chiropractic techniques, patient care, and office management. - Northwestern Health Sciences University (Bloomington, Minnesota): Northwestern Health Sciences University offers a Chiropractic Technologist program that focuses on chiropractic principles, anatomy, physiology, radiology, and clinical skills. Students gain hands-on experience in a clinical setting, preparing them for their future roles as chiropractic assistants. - Palmer College of Chiropractic (Davenport, Iowa): While Palmer College of Chiropractic primarily focuses on the Doctor of Chiropractic degree, they also offer a Chiropractic Technologist program. This program provides students with a solid understanding of chiropractic principles, anatomy, radiology, patient care, and chiropractic techniques.