Learn About High Desert Medical College’s Medical Assistant (MA) Program
Your Top FAQs About our MA Program, Answered!
Are you considering training for a medical assisting career? If you are interested in training for a rewarding career in healthcare, High Desert Medical College specializes in training students just like you for healthcare careers. Our Medical Assisting program is hands-on and practical, and has been designed to be completed in a short amount of time, so you can start your new career sooner. If you are interested in getting started on your healthcare career, learn more about High Desert Medical College and our Clinical Medical Assisting program! Here are your top FAQs about HDMC’s Medical Assisting program answered:
Do I need experience to start the Medical Assisting (MA) program?
No, you do not need any prior medical experience for HDMC’s Medical Assisting (MA) program. Students must have a high school diploma or GED and pass an entrance exam to enroll. (Don’t have a high school diploma? No Problem! Click here to learn about HDMC’s ECPP program!)
How long does it take to complete the Medical Assisting (MA) program?
HDMC’s MA program can be completed in as few as 34 weeks! The morning/afternoon program is 34 weeks when completed at a normal pace, while the evening program is 42 weeks.
When do the next classes for the Medical Assisting (MA) program start?
The MA program at High Desert Medical College is constantly enrolling! New classes start as often as every month.
Is the Medical Assisting (MA) program online or in-person?
The MA program is offered on a hybrid schedule – students complete hands-on learning in on-campus labs while learning classroom theory online. All students also complete an externship placement as well.
Does the Medical Assisting (MA) program include an externship?
The MA program includes an 160-hour Externship in which students receive real-world medical experience in a hands-on setting.
What will I learn in the Medical Assisting (MA) program?
At High Desert Medical College, students learn to complete both front and back-office tasks, including:
- Greeting patients and answering telephone calls
- Scheduling appointments
- Verifying patient information and health insurance
- Updating and filing patients’ medical records
- Recording information in medical recordkeeping systems, such as the Electronic Medical Records (EMR) system
- Completing and filing paperwork such as surgical permission forms, health check forms and insurance paperwork
- Preparing the examination rooms
- Preparing and handling medical instruments and supplies
- Measuring patients’ vital signs
- Administering medications and injections
- Collecting and preparing specimens of bodily fluids and tissues for laboratory testing
- Preparing the patient for any scheduled procedures, and answering any questions they may have regarding the procedure
What do I get when I complete HDMC’s Medical Assisting (MA) program?
Graduates receive a Certificate of Completion, Medical Assistant diploma as well as CPR and First Aid certification from the Red Cross. Upon completion of the program, graduates will also be prepared to test for nationally-recognized MA certification.
Where do graduates normally work after completing HDMC’s Medical Assisting (MA) program?
Many of HDMC’s MA graduates go to work in clinics, doctor’s offices, medical groups, surgery centers, and specialty clinics such as pediatrics, oncology, and neurology.
Does High Desert Medical College offer financial help?
High Desert Medical College offers Financial Aid to those who qualify. HDMC’s Financial Aid Office assists students in applying for any financial aid programs for which they are eligible, and can provide assistance with completing and submitting a Free Application For Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
How do I enroll and get started?
Give us a call at (888) 633-4362 or click here to speak to one of our friendly and helpful admissions representatives about how to get started. You can even make an appointment to tour the campus!
Still have questions about High Desert Medical College or our Medical Assisting (MA) program? Don’t hesitate to give us a call! Click here to contact the Admissions department, or call (888) 633-4362. At High Desert Medical College, we are here to help you make your career goals a reality. If you are ready to take the first step towards a career in healthcare, contact High Desert Medical College to learn how to get started today! The Medical Assistant program is enrolling now, and classes begin soon!
Start your Medical Assistant Career, with training from High Desert Medical College!