Historical Development of the Medical Assistant Program

Following the community demands, a committee was formed to develop the Medical Assisting program. The committee's extensive research indicated that the Medical Assisting occupation is one of the fastest growing occupations in healthcare. In addition, market research has indicated a vast number of career opportunities locally and nation wide. Professional Training Centers was compelled to offer the Medical Assisting program and therefore, the curriculum was completed in Spring 2008.

Scope and Practice of a Medical Assistant

Medical Assistants work in a variety of health care settings. The Medical Assistant becomes knowledgeable of a variety of duties including: Medical Office Management, Billing, Coding, and Finance Management, Fundamentals of Clinical Medical Assisting, Medical Specialties, Radiography, Electrocardiography, and Diagnostic Procedures.

Work Environment

Medical assistants are employed in physicians offices, hospitals, and other healthcare settings. A full-time assignment generally comprises 40 hours.

Mission Statement

Consistent with and supporting the mission statement and goals of Professional Training Centers Inc., the mission of the Medical Assisting program is to successfully train medical assistants through a practical curriculum that combines theory and practice and promotes the technical, intellectual, and professional development of students so that they can become certified medical assistants and obtain gainful employment in this specialized field.

Program Goals

1. To graduate competent individuals who will be employed as entry-level medical assistants.
2. To prepare our students with effective written and oral communication skills and ethical reasoning to interact effectively with patients and the medical community.
3. To assist students in developing critical thinking and problem solving skills.
4. To assist students in obtaining certification as medical assistants.

General information

The Medical Assisting program at Professional Training Centers is a 43 week competency based program that follows the guidelines set forth by Florida Department of Education curriculum framework. The program prepares students for entry level positions as Medical Assistants. After completing the program, graduates are able to sit for the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) certification through the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA).

Upon completion of the Medical Assisting program, graduates will earn a Diploma as a Medical Assistant.