Medical Assisting

Certificate of Proficiency

Medical assistants perform clinical and clerical tasks that keep the offices of physicians, podiatrists, chiropractors and optometrists running smoothly. Depending on the size of the practice, medical assistants may answer telephones, greet patients, update and file patient medical records, fill out insurance forms, handle correspondence, schedule appointments, arrange for hospital admission and laboratory services and handle billing and bookkeeping.
Clinical duties, which may vary according to state regulations, may include taking medical histories and recording vital signs, explaining treatment procedures to patients, preparing patients for examination and assisting during the examination.

Medical assistants collect and prepare laboratory specimens or perform basic laboratory tests on the premises, dispose of contaminated supplies and sterilize medical instruments. They instruct patients about medication and special diets, prepare and administer medications as directed by a physician, authorize drug refills as directed, communicate prescriptions to a pharmacy, draw blood, prepare patients for X-rays, take electrocardiograms, remove sutures and change dressings. They may also arrange examining room instruments and equipment, purchase and maintain supplies and equipment and keep waiting and examination rooms neat and clean. Assistants working in specialized medical fields may have additional duties.

Program Director
Cynthia Watkins
Extension 4189, Room Room HS 210 D

Learn More about Medical Assisting

• Medical Assisting Curriculum at LCCC
• Career Guide
• Frequently Asked Questions