WellSpring School of Allied Health Medical Assisting Programs

Medical Assisting Certificate (10 months)

The Medical Assisting Certificate takes 10 months to complete and costs $17,400. It provides core training necessary to enter the medical assisting field. Classes run 2.5 days per week, offering manageable schedules for those balancing work, family, or other commitments.

Medical Assisting Degree – AOS (16 months)

The AOS degree program expands upon the certificate by including advanced skills in medical office management, human resources, health information technology, and effective communication. This 16-month program is priced at $23,500. With additional management and technology training, it prepares graduates for broader roles and higher potential earnings.

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WellSpring understands students’ varied needs and offers flexible schedules:

• Certificate Program: Daytime classes, 2.5 days per week for 10 months.
• AOS Degree Program: Choice of daytime classes, two full days per week for 16 months, or evening classes, two evenings per week over 24 months.

These scheduling options enable students to pursue their training while accommodating personal or work commitments.

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Both programs teach essential medical assisting skills. Coursework covers clinical and administrative responsibilities, including:

• Medical terminology and anatomy
• Patient administration and clinical procedures
• Pharmacology, injections, and minor surgeries
• Cardiopulmonary testing and EKG procedures
• Phlebotomy and lab techniques
• Medical billing, coding, and insurance processing
• Nutrition, wellness, and patient education
• Emergency medical protocols

The degree (AOS) program adds specialized training in:

• Clinical office management (budgeting, staff training, audits)
• Human resource management (hiring, termination)
• Health Information Technology (electronic health records)
• Advanced communication (patient interactions, marketing strategies)

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Externships are crucial elements of both programs, allowing students to practice in real healthcare settings. The certificate and degree each require a 160-hour externship, providing hands-on experience alongside healthcare professionals. This practical exposure enhances graduates’ confidence and employability.

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A key advantage of WellSpring’s programs is their preparation for multiple national certifications, which significantly boost employment opportunities.

Certificate graduates can sit for:

• Nationally Registered Certified Medical Assistant Exam (CMA)
• Nationally Registered Certified Phlebotomy Technician Exam (CPT)

Degree graduates are eligible for these plus additional certifications:

• Certified Medical Manager (CMM)
• Certified EKG Technician Exam

Holding multiple certifications can make graduates more appealing to employers, offering immediate career advantages.

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Medical assisting remains a growing field with ample job opportunities. Graduates commonly find employment in doctors’ offices, hospitals, chiropractic practices, and specialized clinics. Advanced graduates from the AOS program often transition into managerial roles, office administration, or supervisory positions, leading to higher earnings and greater responsibility.

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To enroll at WellSpring, students must meet these prerequisites:

• Be at least 18 years old
• Hold a high school diploma, GED, or pass the HiSet Exam
• Complete the application packet
• Demonstrate physical, mental, and emotional capability for medical assisting tasks
• Participate in an admissions interview
• Successfully pass a scholastic entry exam

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WellSpring’s Kansas City campus is centrally located at 9140 Ward Parkway, accessible and accommodating. Facilities include equipped classrooms with modern instructional technology, medical labs with industry-standard equipment (EKG machines, microscopes, autoclaves, etc.), and a resource center offering textbooks, study materials, and computer access.

The campus environment is designed for comfort and convenience, featuring student lounges, a clinic setting for hands-on practice, and administrative offices ready to support student success throughout their education.

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Understanding the financial investment involved, WellSpring offers various financial aid options, including federal aid and scholarships for eligible students. Advisors assist students individually, crafting personalized funding plans to make training affordable and manageable.

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WellSpring provides ongoing career support, with experienced placement professionals aiding students in resume preparation, interview techniques, and job searches. Continuous career assistance extends beyond graduation, reflecting the school’s commitment to student success and career satisfaction.

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Strengths:

• Multiple certification opportunities greatly enhance job prospects.
• Flexible scheduling (day and evening options) caters to diverse student needs.
• Extensive hands-on experience through structured externships.
• Strong focus on employability and career support services.

Considerations:

• Costs ($17,400 for Certificate; $23,500 for AOS) are relatively high compared to some shorter local programs.
• The commitment of up to two years (for evening AOS option) requires substantial time investment.
• Students must independently manage personal financial planning, despite available aid.

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