Clinical Medical Assistant Program
The Clinical Medical Assisting (CMA) program at the Georgia School of Phlebotomy (GSP) is an intensive 11-week course designed to provide students with the foundational knowledge and practical skills needed to excel in medical assisting roles. The program balances in-class lectures, hands-on lab sessions, and optional externship opportunities, making it suitable for beginners looking to enter the healthcare field. With a focus on patient care, phlebotomy, EKG administration, and medical office procedures, graduates are well-prepared to pursue a career as a Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA).
This program stands out due to its streamlined format, requiring students to attend classes twice a week for four-hour sessions. It emphasizes both clinical and administrative training, ensuring graduates are versatile and capable of handling a wide range of responsibilities in medical facilities. Additionally, students complete the national CCMA certification exam on their last day, which guarantees they leave the program certified and ready to work.
Curriculum Highlights
The CMA program’s curriculum covers a wide range of skills, divided into lecture-based learning, hands-on labs, and practical assessments. The core areas of focus include:
- Phlebotomy and Specimen Handling: Students gain proficiency in drawing blood and managing specimens.
- Medical Histories and Vital Signs: Training includes collecting accurate patient information and measuring vitals.
- Injections and Wound Care: Students practice administering injections and dressing wounds.
- EKG Administration: Understanding and performing electrocardiograms.
- Office and Administrative Skills: Includes charting, medical record management, scheduling, and HIPAA compliance.
- Medical Terminology, Anatomy, and Pharmacology: Building a strong understanding of the human body, medications, and clinical terminology.
Weekly quizzes and a comprehensive final exam ensure students retain and apply their knowledge. The program also includes a certification exam on the last day, giving students the opportunity to graduate with the nationally recognized CCMA credential.
Prerequisites
To enroll in the CMA program at GSP, students must meet the following requirements:
- Be at least 18 years old.
- Possess a high school diploma, GED, or international equivalent.
Externship Opportunities
GSP offers an optional clinical externship for graduates who meet the following conditions:
- Maintain an overall grade of B or higher.
- Receive a positive recommendation from an instructor.
- Successfully complete the CCMA certification exam.
The externship provides 40 to 120 hours of on-the-job training in real healthcare settings, such as clinics, hospitals, or medical offices. The cost for participation is an additional $300, which includes a $100 registration fee and $200 upon acceptance of placement. Students are responsible for any out-of-pocket expenses related to externship prerequisites, such as immunizations, TB tests, or background checks. Externship schedules are set by the hosting facility and typically follow standard weekday business hours.
Tuition and Payment Plans
The total cost of the program is $2,300, which includes tuition, lab fees, books, supplies, and the national certification exam fee. GSP offers three flexible payment plans to accommodate students’ financial needs:
- Plan A: Pay $1,200 in the first week, with smaller weekly payments thereafter.
- Plan B: Divide payments into equal installments over the program’s duration.
- Plan C: Opt for a balanced payment schedule with installments every other week.
All plans require a $100 non-refundable registration fee to secure a spot in the program.
Certification
Every student who completes the CMA program is required to sit for the Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) exam, administered by the National Healthcareer Association (NHA). This certification ensures that graduates are fully prepared to meet the demands of medical assisting roles. Passing the CCMA exam is mandatory for graduation, guaranteeing all program alumni leave certified and ready for employment.
Career Outlook
Graduates of the CMA program are prepared for entry-level positions in a variety of healthcare settings, including:
- Clinics
- Physician offices
- Hospitals
- Outpatient care facilities
The demand for medical assistants is expected to grow by 18% through 2030, making it an ideal time to enter this field. The inclusion of phlebotomy and EKG skills in the curriculum makes graduates even more competitive in the job market.
Why Apply?
This program is ideal for individuals seeking an accelerated, hands-on medical assisting program that guarantees certification. Its flexible payment options, short 11-week duration, and optional externship provide a balanced and efficient pathway to entering the healthcare industry. Whether you’re a beginner or looking to expand your clinical skills, this program offers a well-rounded education with opportunities for real-world application.
Category | Details |
Cost | $2,300 |
Duration | 11 weeks |
Class Schedules | Twice a week, 4-hour sessions |
Online Classes? | No |
Requirements | 18+ years old; High School Diploma or GED |
Address | 6667 Vernon Woods Dr, Suite A-40, Atlanta, GA 30328 |
Phone | (470) 210-8838 |
[email protected] | |
Website | https://www.georgiaphleb.com/cma.php |