Program Overview
Medical Assisting – For High School Seniors Only
About the Program…
The Medical Assisting Program is a year-long course designed exclusively for high school seniors who are ready to take the first step into the exciting world of healthcare. This program prepares students to become Certified Clinical Medical Assistants (CCMA) through the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) and also provides Basic Life Support (BLS) certification through the American Heart Association (AHA).
Students will gain the foundational knowledge and practical experience needed to thrive in a medical office or clinical setting. The program covers a wide range of topics including:
- Anatomy & Physiology
- Introduction to Medical Assisting
- Medical Terminology
- Pharmacology
- Electrophysiology for EKG Procedures
- Phlebotomy
- Medical Office Administrative Procedures
Throughout the year, students will practice and master both clinical and administrative medical assisting skills, preparing them for the demands of real-world healthcare environments.
Meet the Instructors
Mr. Sanchez is a Registered Nurse and NHA-certified Medical Assistant with over 7 years of experience in healthcare. He has worked with prominent organizations such as Northwestern Medicine and Loyola Medicine, in settings ranging from immediate care and specialty clinics to emergency departments. Mr. Sanchez brings a wealth of real-world knowledge and has previously taught Medical Assisting at graduate-level institutions.
Mrs. Reid is a seasoned Registered Nurse with over 25 years of experience, primarily in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). She also brings a strong background in High School education, combining her clinical expertise with a passion for student development.
Together, they offer students a rich, supportive learning environment with a strong focus on hands-on learning and real-world application.
Clinical Experience, Certification, & Externship
Students will participate in a clinical experience that allows them to observe and work in a professional healthcare setting, offering a first-hand glimpse into the role of a Medical Assistant.
To be eligible to sit for the CCMA certification exam, students must meet certain academic requirements.
Please refer to the course syllabus for guidelines on exam eligibility.
Students who successfully complete the program and pass the exam will graduate high school as Certified Clinical Medical Assistants (CCMA), a credential that can immediately open doors to employment or continued education in the healthcare field.
Qualified students may also be eligible for externship opportunities through our clinical partnerships, which can lead to valuable job offers and on-the-job experience before graduation.
A Strong Foundation for a Future in Healthcare
This program is an ideal starting point for students interested in healthcare careers. Many of our students go on to pursue further education and training in fields such as:
- Nursing (RN, LPN, Nurse Practitioner)
- Pre-Med or Physician Assistant
- Radiology
- Respiratory Therapy
- Occupational Therapy
- Speech Therapy
- Dental Hygiene
- Medical Billing & Coding
- Emergency Medicine
- And more
What Will Our Classes Be Like?
Students will attend class as part of their regular high school schedule and engage in a variety of instructional methods:
- Interactive lectures and discussions
- Hands-on lab work and clinical skills practice
- Online modules and simulation labs
- Scenario-based critical thinking exercises
Key skills taught include:
- Taking vital signs (blood pressure, pulse, temperature, etc.)
- Patient data entry and charting
- Administering medications and vaccines
- Phlebotomy and specimen collection
- Performing EKGs
- Insurance verification and scheduling
- Patient education and communication
- Professionalism, empathy, and HIPAA compliance
Under the supervision of experienced instructors, students will practice these skills throughout the year to build confidence and competency. The goal is to prepare each student not only for certification, but for a successful career in the healthcare field.
Instructors:
Nancy Reid
Hever Sanchez