Mid-America College of Health Sciences Medical Assisting Program

Students engage in a carefully structured curriculum, totaling 730 clock hours, including classroom learning, laboratory practice, and supervised clinical externship hours. The extensive curriculum prepares students thoroughly, with major topics including:

• Human anatomy, physiology, and pathophysiology
• Medical terminology and clinical documentation
• Infection prevention and patient safety
• Basic pharmacology, medication administration, and immunizations
• Cardiopulmonary care, including EKG techniques
• Nutrition and immunology basics
• Laboratory procedures and specimen handling, including phlebotomy
• Administrative tasks: scheduling, medical billing, patient records
• Patient relations, education, and ethical considerations
• CPR and First Aid certifications

MACOHS utilizes labs equipped with modern technology and realistic manikins, allowing students to develop essential skills in a safe, simulated environment.

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The program specifically prepares you for the NHA Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) exam. Passing this nationally recognized certification significantly boosts job prospects and is widely accepted in medical offices and hospitals across all 50 states.

Becoming certified is not automatic upon graduation; students must schedule and successfully pass the CCMA exam after completing their diploma. MACOHS offers convenient testing facilities, but you have the flexibility to take the exam at other approved testing centers.

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One significant advantage of MACOHS is the availability of flexible class schedules. Students have three options to choose from, making it possible to balance training with work, family, or other commitments:

• Weekday Mornings: Monday–Thursday, 8 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.
• Weekday Evenings: Monday–Thursday, 3 p.m. – 9:30 p.m.
• Blended-Week Schedule: Thursday–Saturday, 7 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.

All schedules include the required 160-hour externship, ensuring you get ample real-world experience before graduation.

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Externships at MACOHS are valuable components of the curriculum, providing essential real-world medical assisting experiences. Each student completes 160 hours of unpaid, supervised externship in clinical environments.

Externship placements are coordinated by the program director and include reputable medical facilities such as KU Medical Center, Advent Health, and HCA Physician Clinics. This exposure is beneficial for practical skill development, networking, and future job placement. Note, however, you cannot complete your externship at a current or previous employer.

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Applicants must satisfy specific criteria to enroll:

• Be at least 18 years old
• Possess a high school diploma, GED, or accredited college degree (international diplomas must be evaluated)
• Valid state ID and Social Security card
• Negative tuberculosis (TB) test result
• CPR/BLS certification (American Heart Association only, offered at MACOHS if needed)
• No facial piercings; nails must be short and natural (OSHA rules)
• Required uniform: plain black scrubs, royal blue undershirt, and white sneakers
• Computer literacy, Microsoft Office proficiency, reliable internet, and computer access

You must submit all documentation before class starts; otherwise, you’ll need to delay your enrollment.

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The Medical Assistant Diploma program costs $9,800 in total, which covers tuition, textbooks, and lab supplies. There is also a $25 non-refundable registration fee.

Payment is typically required in full before classes begin. Alternatively, you can arrange a payment plan with a deposit of $2,500 before starting the course.MACOHS highlights financial assistance through multiple local programs like Great Jobs KC, Kansas Workforce Partnership, and the Missouri Full Employment Council. Qualified students might receive full funding, effectively eliminating out-of-pocket expenses. It’s beneficial to explore these funding opportunities early.

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Orientation sessions are held on campus the Friday before the program starts, offering detailed information about class expectations, schedules, and program requirements. Attendance at this orientation is crucial for a successful start.

Students must remember that the CCMA certification expires every two years. Recertification requirements should be reviewed through NHA resources.

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MACOHS is located conveniently at 10000 W 75th Street, Merriam, KS, easily accessible for students in the Kansas City area. The facility features modern classroom setups, well-equipped medical labs, and a supportive learning atmosphere ideal for adult learners.

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This program is notably shorter than many local options, making it ideal for individuals wanting to enter the workforce quickly. Yet, the accelerated nature requires students to commit diligently to managing coursework and lab activities within a relatively short period.

Another critical aspect is the CCMA exam: passing is necessary for certification and employment. Therefore, additional exam preparation beyond classwork might be needed for some students.

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