Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) Program   

As a Clinical Medical Assistant you will be trained to help the physician carry out procedures, care for patients, perform basic lab tests and administer medications. The Clinical Medical Assistant works in a physician's office or a clinic setting.

Detailed Course Topics
After successful completion you will be able to:

• Identify parts of the human body.
• Describe the basic function of each body system.
• Utilize medical terminology in written and spoken communications.
• Define medical terminology found in medical records.
• Define medical conditions, diseases, and disorders commonly treated.
• Perform the procedures for rooming a patient.
• Obtain the vital signs of a patient.
• Perform basic wound care.
• Demonstrate proper positioning and draping for patient procedures.
• Demonstrate first aid for disorders of the musculoskeletal system.
• Demonstrate the collection of specimens.
• Locate information regarding medications.
• Demonstrate the administration of oral and injectable medications.
• Instruct patient in preventative health practices.
• Assist physician with examinations.
• Demonstrate minor specimen testing and recording of results.
• Conduct effective EKG/ECG testing and perform preliminary interpretation of readings.
• Demonstrate skill in goal-setting, organization, note-taking, and test-taking.
• Use communication strategies associated with quality customer service.
• Draft a resume that clearly communicates one’s value to an employer.
• Contrast effective communication approaches.
• Use listening, mirroring and parameter-setting in difficult conversations.

Student Prerequisites
Students must be a minimum 18 years of age and must have a high school diploma or its equivalent. Prior to placement with an employer, you may need to show proof of completion of CPR for the Healthcare Provider course (BLS), a health examination including standard immunizations, Hepatitis B, and/or a TB test. Many employers also require a criminal background check. You should also possess competency in basic computer operations and literacy.

Completion and Certification Exam
Certificate of Completion will be awarded after successful completion of both the course and externship. Upon successful completion of the classroom hours, you will be eligible to sit for the CCMA exam offered by the National Healthcareer Association (NHA). The cost of CCMA certification exam is included with your tuition. Extra fees will apply if you are unable to take the exam with the class, as scheduled, or for any subsequent retake.

Class Expectations
This is a college-level, accelerated program. There will be extensive reading and homework to be completed outside of class. Full preparation before class and participation in each discussion, quiz, and lab exercise is required. Attendance and punctuality are graded components of class. If deemed necessary, class may occasionally be held in an online forum, such as Zoom. Therefore, online access via computer or tablet (not phone) is also a requirement.

Pre-Registration Q & A Sessions
Students have an option to attend a Q & A session in person or via Zoom before turning in an application. (See schedule, below.) Please contact our office if you need additional information. If attending via Zoom, you must email the Program Manager prior to 1:00 pm on the day of the scheduled session. Sessions will not be recorded.

Application and Resume
These are to be turned in to the Continuing Education office after attending an Orientation session. Click here to print an application or you may pick up a copy in person at the college: 1115 N. Roberts, Room 113. Once your completed application is submitted, you will be notified of acceptance within 3 days. Incomplete applications will not be accepted. Seats are limited and will be filled on a first-come, first-served basis.

Payment Information
Because this is a career training and not for college credits, the program is not eligible for Federal Financial Aid. Certain aid programs may be available to those who qualify. If you are unable to pay in full when your application is accepted, you may choose to make a 10% deposit ($295) which is non-refundable and non-transferrable (good only toward the class for which you are registering). This will hold your seat until one week before class. Tuition is due in full one week before the first day of class.
 

Tuition Assistance
Apply for a full tuition grant from a local employer and gain valuable education for free with quaranteed employment. (*terms and conditions apply)
As another option, you may qualify for Job Service funding. Contact them at 406-447-3200 or at 715 Front Street.

Need more information?

Link to U.S. Department of Labor/Bureau of Labor Statistics website

1115 North Roberts - Room 113
Helena, Montana 59601
Monday - Friday; 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Program Manager Christy Stergar
406-447-6945
E-mail: Christy.Stergar@HelenaCollege.edu

Summary of Important Dates