The Medical Assistant Apprenticeship at University Health is a free, employer-sponsored training program that lasts about 6 months. Students learn both online and through practical clinical work, receiving hands-on experience directly in University Health’s ambulatory clinics. Participants are paid during training, making it highly accessible and affordable. However, the program clearly states they will not hire tobacco users, which is an important consideration.
Program Overview
The Medical Assistant Apprentice program at University Health is an apprenticeship model created in collaboration with Metropolitan Community College (MCC) and the Full Employment Council. The goal is to help address the high demand for trained medical assistants in Kansas City and Missouri. This training stands out as it’s completely cost-free for participants, removing many financial barriers typically associated with medical assisting programs.
As an apprentice, you’ll gain valuable practical experience under the supervision of trained professionals, making you ready for immediate employment upon completing the program. The program provides the skills and knowledge necessary to take the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) exam.
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How the Apprenticeship Works
The training period lasts for 6 months, during which you’ll attend classes taught by MCC faculty for about 4-6 hours weekly. Additionally, expect around 10-12 hours per week of online theoretical training and “soft skills” preparation. This blended format offers flexibility and a solid balance between classroom knowledge and hands-on clinical experience.
Practical training occurs in University Health’s Ambulatory Care Clinics. Here, you’ll work closely with an experienced Medical Assistant mentor, gaining direct exposure to patient care in a real-world medical setting. This kind of practical training is highly valuable when transitioning into the workforce.
Certification Opportunities
Once you successfully complete the apprenticeship, you’ll become eligible to take the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) examination. Passing this exam significantly boosts your professional credibility and increases employment opportunities within healthcare facilities.
Admissions Requirements
To apply for this apprenticeship, you’ll need to meet the following criteria:
- Be at least 18 years old.
- Have a high school diploma, GED, or equivalent qualification.
Additionally, it’s crucial to be aware of University Health’s tobacco-free hiring policy. They explicitly state that they do not hire smokers, which could affect your eligibility if you currently use tobacco products.
Potential Employment Agreement Concern
One aspect of the program that’s not entirely clear upfront is whether you’ll be required to commit to working for University Health after completing the apprenticeship. While the training itself is free, an employment obligation could restrict your options for working elsewhere after graduating. It’s recommended you speak directly with the program’s admissions office for clarification on this matter before applying.
Program Benefits and Features
Cost-Free Training
The apprenticeship is fully funded, meaning you won’t pay tuition or training costs. Moreover, apprentices receive pay for the clinical hours worked during training. This is an enormous advantage, especially if financial limitations are a significant barrier to entering the healthcare field.
Real-World Experience
You’ll gain substantial hands-on experience working directly with patients under the guidance of professional medical assistants. This on-the-job training makes graduates very attractive to employers, ensuring a smoother transition into professional roles.
Short Duration
At just 6 months, this program quickly equips you with necessary skills and certifications to start your medical assisting career promptly.
University Health Culture and Environment
University Health describes its culture as one of professionalism, teamwork, mutual respect, and dedication to patient care. They highlight a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, promising a supportive and inclusive work environment. Such an atmosphere could be appealing if you’re looking for an employer dedicated to cultural competence and workplace harmony.
Additionally, University Health is recognized as a Healthy KC Certified Company, signaling its dedication to employee wellness and health promotion, which includes being tobacco-free and providing excellent onsite wellness resources.
Employee Benefits and Advantages
For apprentices who transition into regular employment, University Health offers a strong benefits package:
- Medical, dental, and prescription coverage: Begins shortly after employment starts, with fully-paid healthcare at UH services for employees and dependents.
- Paid time off (PTO): You start earning PTO immediately upon employment, usable after three months.
- Retirement benefits: UH contributes to retirement savings plans (403(b)), matching employee contributions.
- Wellness initiatives: Onsite fitness facilities, wellness programs, discounted services, and work-life balance opportunities.
These extensive benefits indicate UH’s investment in employee wellbeing, another appealing aspect for apprentices considering long-term employment with the organization.
Things to Consider Before Applying
While the program has many strong points, some factors should be carefully considered before enrolling:
- The uncertainty surrounding potential post-training employment obligations could be an issue if you prefer keeping employment options open.
- University Health’s strict no-smoking policy means tobacco users would not qualify for this program, limiting accessibility for some applicants.
- If you are looking for flexibility to work elsewhere after training, clarify this potential requirement upfront.
Who Should Consider This School?
The University Health Medical Assistant Apprentice program is an excellent choice for anyone interested in quickly entering the medical assisting field without incurring educational debt. This program particularly suits individuals who appreciate practical, hands-on learning and intend to work directly within the University Health system.
If finances have been a significant barrier to pursuing medical assisting, this apprenticeship program is ideal. It removes the common obstacles of tuition costs and lack of income during training. Additionally, individuals who prioritize employer stability, comprehensive employee benefits, and a wellness-oriented workplace will find this opportunity particularly attractive.
However, prospective students should carefully weigh the implications of any possible employment commitment following the program. This may limit your immediate options if you prefer employment flexibility after certification. Also, tobacco users need to consider the non-smoking hiring policy seriously before applying.
Overall, the apprenticeship is highly beneficial for those looking for a direct, debt-free route into healthcare employment with a reputable employer. For clarity on employment commitments, it’s highly recommended to contact University Health admissions directly before making a final decision.
Category | Details |
Cost: | No cost (free training and paid clinical experience) |
Duration: | 6 months |
Class Schedules: | Weekly in-person classes (4–6 hrs), plus 10–12 hrs/week of online training and soft skills |
Online Classes?: | Partial (online didactic and soft skills training included) |
Requirements: | Age 18+, high school diploma, GED, or equivalent; non-smoker due to tobacco-free hiring policy |
Address: | 2301 Holmes St, Kansas City, MO 64108 |
Phone: | (816) 404-1000 |
Website: | https://www.universityhealthkc.org/careers/career-connections/career-pathway-programs/ |
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