An
MAS manages the administrative duties involved in patient care and is the liaison between inpatient, outpatient and medical staff. Work settings may include hospitals, doctor's offices, clinics and nursing homes.
A typical day for an MAS would include patient reception, interpreting doctor's handwriting, ordering and scheduling tests, chart assembly, data entry, verifying insurance, performing transfers, discharging and admitting hospitalized patients.
Preparation to pass both the
Certified Medical Administrative Specialist (CMAS) certification examination, administered by the American Medical Technologists (AMT), and the Certified Health Unit Coordinator (CHUC) certification exam, administered by the National Association of Health Unit Coordinators, Inc. (NAHUC), is an essential part of the program.
The job outlook for this position is increasing due to population growth and expanding medical technology.
Learning Outcomes
By the end of the course of study in the
Medical Administrative Specialist Program students should be able to:
- Perform the tasks and possess the skills needed to secure and maintain employment in Medical Administrative Specialist positions.
- Demonstrate knowledge of medical terminology, anatomy, physiology, and pathophysiology necessary for verbal and written communication with physicians, peers, other healthcare workers, patients and other non-healthcare workers.
- Demonstrate knowledge of and competency in medical front office administrative skills, including medical record keeping, medical office reception, scheduling, insurance, billing, communication, risk management, ethical issues, and inventory management.
- Demonstrate professional work habits and behavior expected in a medical office including confidentiality following all HIPAA requirements, medical ethics, and a commitment to team work and diversity.
- Use technical computer, telephone, and office machine skills at medical industry standards in proficiency to perform all required medical office tasks.
- Possess the necessary knowledge and skills using Standard Precautions for responding to medical emergencies with First Aid, CPR, and/or AED.
Admission Policy
Students must have a High School Diploma or a GED and meet the minimum Comprehensive Adult Student Assessment Systems (CASAS) or the Career Programs Assessment Test (CPAt) score for admission. This is a Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) approved program.
