Medical Assisting Program
Student Handbook
2013-2014
Medical Assistants are multi-skilled allied health professionals
specifically trained to work in ambulatory settings, such as
physician’s offices, clinics and group practices, performing
administrative and clinical procedures.
Kirkwood Community College
Allied Health Department
1-800-332-2055
(319) 398-5566
Kirkwood Mission Statement
 Identifies community needs
 Provides accessible, quality education and training
 Promotes opportunities for lifelong learning
Kirkwood Vision
 Invent, develop and deliver learning solutions for the 21st century
Medical Assisting Program goal:


To prepare competent entry-level medical assistants in the cognitive
(knowledge), psychomotor (skills), and affective (behaviors) learning
domains.
Additional program goals are continuously formed, evaluated, and
analysed depending on graduate and employer surveys as well as
student success with all competencies.
To: Medical Assisting Students:
Welcome to the Allied Health Department and to the Medical Assisting program in particular.
Medical Assisting is a very versatile health care career, which is forecast to be one of the fastest
growing professions in the 21st century. As a professional medical assistant you will be a multiskilled allied health care provider and a vital part of the health care team. In the clinical area your
duties may include taking patients to the examination room, taking the patient’s height, weight,
temperature and history, preparing instruments for minor surgery and helping the physician with
the examination or running EKGs. You may give patients injections or other treatments ordered
by the physician. Alternatively, you may become an administrative medical assistant who
answers phones, greets patients, and makes appointments for them. Administrative medical
assistants are also responsible for accounting, insurance preparation and computer work.
Employment opportunities also exist in labs as phlebotomists, as EKG technicians and in
hospitals as unit secretaries. Most graduates will be employed in an ambulatory care clinic, (a
physician’s office) or managed care clinic.
If we were asked to offer some advice to new students as they begin our program, we would
provide the following:
 Participate fully in all the experiences that you are offered. Attendance is very important. It is
one of the most frequently asked questions when employers are checking references.
 An ability to get along with and work well with others is also a quality that employers are
seeking.
 Be open to new ideas
 Realize that you will probably have at least 2-3 hours of homework/study for each hour of
instruction
 Participate actively in your learning.
 Read this handbook carefully; it describes the program and department policies and
procedures.
 Accept constructive criticism in the spirit in which it is given; to help you become a successful,
employable medical assistant.
Everyone at Kirkwood wants you to succeed. Developing technical skills is important, but
growing personally, working effectively with others, and being an ethical, professional person is
equally important. There are counselors available for both academic and personal problems.
Tutors are available at no cost to you.
Welcome again and do not hesitate to come in to see us or to ask for help.
Sincerely,
Dawn Eitel
MA 2013-2014
Peg Donohoe
Tanya Scott
3
Professor
Program Director
Associate Professor
Assistant Professor
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Section I
HANDBOOK INFORMATION.......................................................6
Student Responsibilities
Kirkwood Student Handbook
Section II
ADMISSION INFORMATION .......................................................7
Admission Requirements
Health Physical
Basic Life Support (CPR) Policy
HIPAA
Infection Control
Bloodborne Pathogens
Illness and Injury Treatment & Insurance Claims Report Policy & Procedures
Health Insurance
Felony
Transfer Credit Evaluation
Waivers
High School Health Academy Articulation
Pre-course Work
Section III
A.
B.
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PROGRAM INFORMATION
Program Information ................................................................ 15
The Nature of the Work
Medical Assisting Competencies
Technical Standards/Physical Demands
Program Offerings
Accreditation
Expectations of a Medical Assistant
Professional Organizations
Scholarships
Compass Score Requirements
Curriculum
Course Descriptions
Classroom/Lab/Clinic ............................................................... 32
Classroom/Lab/Clinic Policies
Class Attendance
Program Progression
Completion
Social Media Policy
Externship Policies and Rules
Clinic Policies
Student Uniforms
Testing
Confidentiality
Professionalism
Liability Coverage
Infection Control/OSHA/Exposure
4
Health Insurance
Felony
Weather
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C.
Registration/Grades.................................................................. 38
Registration and Change of Registration
Grades
Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society
Satisfactory Progress
Student Success
Withdrawal and Readmission
Part-time Status
Communications
Grievance and Academic Appeal Policy
Section IV
PROGRAM COMPLETION ........................................................ 42
Academic and Graduation Requirements
Student/Graduate Input
Certification Requirements
Articulations
Section V
GENERAL INFORMATION ........................................................ 44
For More Information
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Section I
HANDBOOK INFORMATION
This handbook has been prepared as an essential resource containing information pertinent to the
program. If you have questions, need assistance or clarification on any policies, procedures, or
requirements, you are strongly encouraged to see your program director or instructor. No rule or
statement in this handbook is intended to discriminate nor will this program knowingly, for the purpose of
clinical experience, place students in other agencies which discriminate on the basis of sex, race, color,
creed, national origin, religion, age, disability, sexual orientation, or marital status.
STUDENT RESPONSIBILITIES
Each student is responsible for familiarity and compliance with information appearing in this program
handbook as well as the Kirkwood Community College Student Handbook. Failure to read the information
will not be considered an excuse for non-compliance. The Kirkwood Student Handbook may be obtained
from the Kirkwood website. Students are responsible for monitoring updates and changes in both
handbooks. You may locate updated versions on the Allied Health website.
The faculty has adopted the policies in this program handbook. If a student finds that an extenuating
circumstance might justify a waiver of a particular policy, the student may petition the director of the
program. The program reserves the right to change policies or revise curricula as necessary due to
unanticipated circumstances. Students registered in the MAP specific courses will be informed of
curricular changes as they occur. Please monitor the web site for changes.
Violations of guidelines within this program handbook could ultimately result in dismissal from the
program.
KIRKWOOD STUDENT HANDBOOK
Refer to the Kirkwood Student Handbook for the following policies:
Academic Information
Americans with Disabilities Act
Cheating and Plagiarism
College policies & procedures
College Services:
Counseling, Academic & Personal
Personal Achievement
Tutoring,
Writing Center
Confidentiality
EEO
Equal Rights
Financial Aid
General Information
Outreach services
Sexual Harassment.
Student Conduct
Student Life
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Section II
ADMISSION INFORMATION
ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS
All students seeking admission to this program must complete all of the following:
1
Complete a Kirkwood Community College application, listing Medical Assisting as your major.
This can be done online (www.kirkwood.edu/apply) or mail to Enrollment Services 216 Kirkwood
Hall. Students may apply to one Kirkwood program at any time. The newest application
automatically cancels any previous application. Students must be at least 17 years of age to begin
the Medical Assisting Program.
2
Attend a Program Conference. These are a scheduled one-hour information session offered
most months. Dates of upcoming program conferences are listed on the Kirkwood website and are
posted outside the Allied Health offices in Linn Hall 2184. Please sign up to attend on the website.
Got to www.kirkwood.edu/alliedhealth, click on “Programs” and then “Medical Assisting”. You will
see a link for “Program Conference” where you can register.
3
Provide evidence of academic readiness
The COMPASS placement test; ACT and SAT may be accepted. The test must have been
completed within the last three years.
To begin the program, all students are required to have the following minimum COMPASS
placement scores:
EITHER
COMPASS scores: 32 Writing
71 Reading* 24 Math
OR
ACT scores:
15 English
16 Reading 18 Math
*Introduction to Psychology now has a Reading Score requirement of 82.
If the student does not meet this score, he or she must register for the Academic Prep Health
Sciences/Math, a 1 credit hour course available in Learning Services, – Room 2063, Cedar Hall.
Course Options:
Writing:
Reading:
Math:
Elements of Writing or Composition I
Intro to Psychology (pre-requisite reading score of 832 or
higher)
Intro to Math or higher level math course
This admission requirement may also be met if the student has earned an Associate degree or
higher.
4
Submit admission checklist: Students MUST submit their white admission checklist to the Allied
Health office (room 2164 Linn Hall) when all admission requirements are completed. Applicants
meeting requirements are accepted in order of application date. Students are accepted each fall,
spring and summer semester. After the program is full, students are accepted to a numbered
waiting list. The program is very near the point where a wait list will be implemented.
5
The following are required to be completed while enrolled in the Administrative Medical
Office Procedures course: (These are due by week 12 of the semester a student is enrolled
in Administrative Medical Office Procedures, MAP-123.)
• A health physical/immunization record/TB record on file at the Campus Health office
• A criminal background check through Certified Background Checks.
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 If a student “stops-out” for a year they will be required to repeat their criminal background
check.
6.
The following is required prior to the start of either Clinical Procedures or the Medical Lab
courses:
• A completed health physical and current immunization/TB record on file through Certified
Background Checks
• OSHA certification
• HIPAA training
7.
Previously taken program course requirements.
• All General Education courses are good no matter how old they are. These include but are not
limited to Fundamentals of Communications and Introduction to Psychology.
• All technical courses and those courses that serve as a foundation to the Medical Assisting
program must be taken no more than three years before being accepted into the program.
These include Basic Anatomy and Physiology (or A&P I and II), Medical Terminology (4
credits), Health skills I, and Professionals in Health.
o Any student who has taken these courses prior to the start of the Medical Assisting
program bears sole responsibility for retaining the content covered.
o
Any student who has made two attempts to pass an MAP course and not been successful will be dropped
from the program. Should this student decide to continue in the program at a later date they will be
required to attend a program conference and will be placed on the wait list. All program courses must be
retaken.
HEALTH PHYSICAL
Each student must have a current physical and immunization/TB* record** on file with Certified
Background Checks prior to receiving their final grade in MAP-123. These must remain current while
attending Med Lab (MAP-210) and Clinical Procedures (MAP-312). Immunizations must be kept up-todate throughout the time the student is enrolled in the program. A waiver, signed by a physician, is
allowed for medical reasons only. The cost of the health physical and immunizations/TB are the student’s
responsibility as are the Certified Background Check and the Immunization/physical monitoring.
*An initial 2-step TB test is required with annual follow-up
** The health physical form is available on the web at www.kirkwood.edu under Campus Health.
BASIC LIFE SUPPORT (CPR) & FIRST AID POLICY
1. All students involved in direct patient care will be required to show documentation of completion of
CPR for Health Care Providers training prior to any patient contact and maintain a current card for
the duration of their program. Students who fail to provide documentation of current CPR training will
not be permitted to attend their Practicum. Give a copy of your CPR card top Tom in 2164 Linn
Hall. Include your name, K# and program.
2. Medical exceptions to this requirement may be considered by the program. Documentation from a
health care provider will be required
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3. Students are required to provide evidence of First Aid training. Students who fail to provide
documentation of First-Aid training will not be permitted to attend their Practicum. Give a copy of
your first aid training to Tom in 2164 Linn Hall. Include your name, K# and program.
HIPAA
Evidence of HIPAA training is required. This is initially completed in Professionals in Health.
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INFECTION CONTROL/OSHA/EXPOSURE
Initial training is provided in the Professionals in Health course. All students must take an annual OSHA
training update online. Go to Eagelnet, sign in and find the various trainings.
OSHA and TB
HIPAA
Mandatory Reporter (child and dependant adult)
Age Appropriate Training
Students may be participating in activities within courses that have potential for exposure to infectious
diseases including, but not limited to, Hepatitis B and HIV. All measures must be exercised to minimize
risk. Students who fail to comply, jeopardizing the safety of others or themselves, may be asked to
withdraw from the course.
See Blood-borne Pathogen Exposure Response procedures and
See Student and Visitor Illness and Injury Reporting and Treatment Policy Statement on next page
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Illness and Injury Treatment and Insurance Claims Reporting Policy And Procedure
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The following Illness and Injury Treatment and Insurance Claims Reporting Policy and Procedure is applicable to all
Kirkwood Community College students participating in clinical programs.
I. Treatment and Reporting Procedure and Requirements
A. Any Kirkwood student in a clinical setting, having knowledge of an incident, should report the incident immediately to their
clinical instructor.
B. Non-Emergency and Non-Urgent Illness / Injury Incidents
These incidents include those where an appointment is required and there is not an obvious concern of the threat of loss of life or
limb if care is not urgently or emergently provided. Some examples of these incidents include minor sprains, strains, minor back
pain, minor burns, and follow-up appointments for blood borne pathogen exposures.
 If the incident occurred on main campus, the employee or student should report to Campus Health for evaluation by the
Campus Health Director and completion of the required documentation (letter “D” below). The incident needs to be reported
within 24 hours (or the next business day).
 After evaluation, the Campus Health Director and student will complete a Kirkwood Illness and Injury Report form. One
copy of this form will remain in Campus Health office in the student medical file. A second copy of this form will be sent to the
Kirkwood Risk Manager, 2nd Floor Kirkwood Hall, Main Campus, within 24 hours (or the next business day). The student can
also be given a copy upon request.
 All non-emergency or non-urgent healthcare evaluations related to the incident should be scheduled with the students
physician/ clinic of choice.
 If off-campus (clinical sites, outreach centers), the Kirkwood Illness and Injury Report form (available @
http://www.kirkwood.edu/campushealth) should be completed and sent to Campus Health (132 Iowa Hall, Main Campus) within
24 hours of the incident. All non-emergency / non-urgent healthcare evaluations related to the injury should be scheduled with
the students physician/ clinic of choice.
C. Urgent and Emergency Medical Care Incidents
These include incidents where there is a concern of the loss of life or limb. Some examples would include suspected heart
conditions, severe back injury with neurological changes or severe pain, or a laceration needing stitches, blood borne pathogen
exposures.
The nearest emergency facility or the facility preferred by the student should be used in case of an emergency.
D. When a health insurance claim is received, an investigation will commence to determine the type of claim, severity of the
incident, and the identification of the people and / or property involved.
E. All students should submit all bills and / or receipts of medical services or care as a result of the incident to the Kirkwood
Risk Manager, 2nd Floor Kirkwood Hall, Main Campus. Kirkwood carries a limited medical coverage policy with limits of
$1,000 per student with a $10 deductible that is the student’s responsibility. The paperwork must be submitted and accepted
before Kirkwood becomes responsible for any payment of bills. We do not guarantee the bills will be taken care of.
F. If a student is requesting a bill be paid under our policy an insurance form will need to be signed and returned. The form can
be picked up from the Risk Manager, Kirkwood Hall 2nd Floor. If a bill is received in the mail, the Risk Manager will mail the
form to you. Please complete and return the form at your earliest convenience. Failure to do so may result in bills not being paid.
We also need the itemized billing statement from the clinic/office in order to process payment. Itemized billing statements
contain CPT codes/procedure codes, diagnosis code and Tax ID of the provider.
G. The student should notify the Kirkwood Risk Manager of any claim they feel is not being resolved either as quickly as it
should or in the manner they feel it should.
H. Kirkwood students will be responsible for all costs deemed not covered by Kirkwood Community College after the claim has
been adjusted and payment has been authorized.
6/13 Lara Buckles
HEALTH INSURANCE
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It is not required that Medical Assisting students have health insurance; it is highly recommended. Some
clinic sites require students to provide proof of medical insurance coverage prior to acceptance to that site.
Students without health insurance cannot be assigned to these clinics.
FELONY/CRIMINAL CHECKS
All students in Allied Health programs at Kirkwood Community College are required to submit to
background checks. If the student's background check reveals incidents not acceptable to the
Background Committee it will be necessary for the student to withdraw from all MAP courses and
withdraw from the program.
If a student has a felony conviction, it may prevent them from being eligible for certification and might
adversely affect employment opportunities. Students with a felony conviction are advised to contact the
AAMA immediately.
Medical Assisting students are to complete this background check during the semester they are taking
Administrative Medical Office Procedures (MAP-123). If a medical assisting student stops out from the
program for one year, for whatever reason, the criminal background check must be repeated once they
resume program courses. Directions will be provided to you when you are enrolled in this class.
TRANSFER CREDIT EVALUATION
College courses taken prior to beginning the program at Kirkwood may be evaluated for possible transfer
credit. To have a transcript evaluated, the student must request an official transcript from each college
be sent to:
Kirkwood Community College
Enrollment Services
6301 Kirkwood Blvd SW
Cedar Rapids, IA 52406-9973
Once the registrar has evaluated the official transcript, students will receive a Kirkwood transcript listing
accepted courses.
TRANSFERRING FROM ANOTHER MEDICAL ASSISTING PROGRAM
Students wishing to transfer program credits from other Medical Assisting accredited programs will be
asked to pass the final exam in our corresponding course with at least 75% accuracy and, if applicable,
satisfactorily demonstrate performances for those courses. If the student successfully passes the final
their grade and credit from the previous school will be applied to their transcript
Students must also meet with the Kirkwood Medical Assisting Program Director. It is likely that students
may have to retake courses previously taken due to the variation in organization of each individual
Medical Assisting program.
WAIVER OF COURSE REQUIREMENTS or CREDIT BY EXAMINATION
The program faculty will review credits awarded by the Credit by Examination process. This may be done
either through the College Level Examination Program (CLEP) or by department examinations where
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available. Please refer to the college catalog for additional information. Questions regarding waiver of
course requirements and/or credit by exam should be directed to the program director.
HIGH SCHOOL HEALTH SCIENCE ACADEMY ARTICULATION
Course work earned while a student is in the High School Health Science Academy program is on the
student's Kirkwood transcript and may meet specific program requirements.
Basic Medical Terminology (2.5 credit) does not meet the Medical Terminology (4 credit) requirement.
Completing the Nurse Aid course or being a Certified Nursing Assistant does not waive Health Skills I.
PRE-ENROLLMENT COURSES
There are no pre-requisites for the Medical Assisting program.
Students may begin taking selected courses prior to beginning the program. There will be no substitution
of courses in the curriculum unless approved by the program director. Completing courses before
beginning the program will not shorten the length of time you are in the program (This is a three semester
program). Students should refer to the program webpage at www.kirkwood.edu/alliedhealth for current
registration and curriculum information.
During the program conference, you will be given a list of courses that may be taken prior to starting the
program.
PROGRAM MAJOR
Students accepted into the program have all claimed their major to be Medical Assisting. If a student
changes his or her major to something other than Medical Assisting he or she must let the program
director know. The student will be removed from the program advisee list. Should the student later
decide to re-enter the Medical Assisting program he or she is responsible to meet with the program
director for approval; then work out a plan of study for his or her re-entry. This may involve repeating all
previously completed program courses or refreshing previous course work. The student bears
responsibility to let the program director know his or her plans. Once accepted back into the
program the student will be required to follow the handbook policies for that new accept calendar
year. If a student does not notify the program director of their major change the student must accept any
consequences.
EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING
The Kirkwood Community College Medical Assisting Program does not grant credit for past experiential
learning.
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Section IIIA: PROGRAM INFORMATION
MEDICAL ASSISTING - THE NATURE OF THE WORK
Medical Assistants perform administrative and clinical tasks to assist in the delivery of quality health care.
The duties of medical assistants vary from office to office, depending upon location, size and specialty.
Medical assistants perform administrative duties including reception, business and financial aspects of the
office. A clinical medical assistant’s duties include providing all aspects of direct patient care and
performing basic laboratory procedures.
Medical assistants work in well-lighted, clean environments, where they constantly interact with other
people and are expected to handle several responsibilities at the same time (multi-task).
Medical assistants MUST be able to communicate effectively with individuals of different abilities and
cultural, ethnic, and educational backgrounds.
MEDICAL ASSISTING PROGRAM COMPETENCIES
Competencies for the Medical Assisting program are listed in the individual course syllabi.
Students will be expected to meet all of the listed competencies prior to Externship.
TECHNICAL STANDARDS AND PHYSICAL DEMANDS
Listed below are the technical standards and physical demands required to perform the technical tasks
expected of a medical assistant student, either unaided or with the assistance of a reasonable
accommodation. These are the essential functions that constitute the fundamental requirements and
reasonable physical qualifications a student needs for admission to the Medical Assistant program for
clinical education
1
Critical Thinking
• must be able to read at a 10th grade level
• understand basic principles and apply these concepts to new situations
• have skills to interpret facts, make decisions and act on them
Examples:
• anticipate the physician’s needs and have the correct material set up
• listen to the patients’ problems and ask the appropriate questions so that the best care is
provided
• employ blood borne pathogen standards in a variety of settings
2
Communication
• interact effectively with others by speaking, writing and listening
• be able to read nonverbal communications of others
• be able to interact effectively with people from a variety of social, emotional, cultural and
intellectual backgrounds
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Examples
• making and answering phone calls
• talking to and listening to patients while obtaining a medical history
• recording information accurately, appropriately and legibly
• initiating patient education
• using correct terminology in clinical histories
3
Behavior and interpersonal skills
• demonstrate emotional stability
• show initiative and responsibility
• manage work time effectively
• be reliable and punctual
• dress appropriately
Examples
• show respect to others
• demonstrate courtesy and tact
• accept constructive criticism
• be able to manage several tasks simultaneously (multi-task)
4
Calculation
• Be able to perform basic mathematical functions
Examples
• Calculation and measuring of medication dosages
• Conversion of height, weight and temperatures between metric and English systems
5
Sensory requirements
Vision
• be able to read patient charts, records, computer screens, typed and handwritten notations
• be able to use a microscope
• be able to observe patients’ condition
• be able to observe nonverbal communications
Examples
• locating veins for blood drawing
• reading instruments and scales used in the laboratory
• reading charts and communications from co-workers
Hearing
• be sufficient to monitor and assess the patient’s condition
• be sufficient to use the telephone
Examples
• listening to patients descriptions of their symptoms
• measuring blood pressure using a stethoscope
• communicating with patients and other health care workers by telephone
Touch
• have sufficient sensitivity for delicate tasks
Examples
• locating and counting the patient’s pulse
• detecting veins for phlebotomy
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6 Physical Activity
These requirements will vary depending upon the office location, size and specialty.
Constant
67-100%
• standing, sitting and walking
• lifting 5-301b
Examples
• standing while assisting the physician in examinations or surgery
• sitting at the reception desk
• moving equipment and supplies
Frequent
34-66%
• reaching
• hand/wrist repetitions
Examples
• stocking supplies
• using keyboards on computers and instruments
Occasional 0-33%
• bending
• pushing
• pulling
Examples
• replacing files
• moving patients in wheelchairs
• selecting supplies form storage
• assisting patients onto examination tables
7
8
Fine motor skills
• be able to manipulate small objects
• have good hand/eye co-ordination
• ability to keyboard
Examples
• drawing blood
• measuring vital signs
• administering injections
• handling instruments to assist with office surgery
• entering patient data on computers
Environment
• surroundings are clean and well-lit
• exposure to body fluids will be frequent (34-66%) while a student
• exposure to latex may be frequent (34-66%) while a student out on the externship
Students who believe they do not possess one or more of the above required abilities may
contact the program director and seek additional assistance from Kirkwood’s Learning Services
Office. The program must adhere to these stated technical standards as they are expected when
one works in a clinic as a medical assistant.
Potential students MUST be honest with themselves as to how well they will be able to perform
any and all of the technical standards.
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When possible, reasonable accommodation of a disability will be discussed and approached in a
manner appropriate to the individual’s needs.
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EXPECTATIONS OF A MEDICAL ASSISTANT
It is expected that a Medical Assistant student will work to accomplish the following goals:
1. Have an understanding of oneself as an individual, as a member of the Health Care team and as a
member of the community.
2. Exhibit positive attitudes toward their work/school environment.
3. Communicate knowledge and attitudes necessary to meet the needs of the patients.
4. Maintain, demonstrate and communicate medical health principles.
5. Effectively perform the administrative, laboratory, and clinical duties expected of an entry level
Medical Assistant
6. Assume responsibility for continued educational and professional growth.
7. Assume responsibilities for participation in their professional organization.
PROGRAM OFFERINGS
Kirkwood Community College offers three Medical Assistant programs to meet student needs:
• Diploma Program: The one year diploma program begins each Fall, Spring, and Summer semesters
• Part-time Program: The diploma program may be taken on a part-time basis and completed in 2
years. See section on part-time status.
• Associate of Applied Science Degree Program: An associate degree is offered to diploma
graduates seeking a two year degree and may be taken on a full or part time basis.
ACCREDITATION
The Kirkwood Community College Medical Assisting Program is accredited by the Commission on
Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (www.caahep.org) upon the recommendation of the
Medical Assisting Education Review Board of the American Association of Medical Assistants Endowment
(MAERB).
Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs
1361 Park Street
Clearwater, FL 33756
727-210-2350
www.caahep.org
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PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZATIONS
The professional organization for medical assistants is the American Association of Medical Assistants
(AAMA)
The Linn Chapter of Medical Assistants meets on the second Wednesday of each month at 6:30pm
(September-December and February-May). All students in the Medical Assisting program are required to
attend at least two professional meetings and complete a summary paper for each of those meetings.
This paper is due within one week to receive credit on your Externship grade. This summary must be
turned in to Dawn Eitel, 2164 Linn Hall. These papers must earn at least 17 out of 20 in order to be
accepted. Forms are available from program instructors.
The Iowa Society of Medical Assistants holds a state conference in April. Students are welcome to
attend. Contact a medical assisting instructor for information on meeting dates, times and topics.
Students will become ‘student members’ of the AAMA during Externship (practicum).
The students may elect to participate in the Medical Assisting club to help earn money for their AAMA
dues and for other activities. The instructors will work with students on these events during various class
periods.
SCHOLARSHIPS
For information about general scholarships, contact Kirkwood's Financial Aid Office, 205
Kirkwood Hall or apply online.
Scholarships for Medical Assistant students include:
Linn Chapter of Medical Assistants
Linn County Medical Society
Maxine Williams Scholarship, American Association of Medical Assistants.
Deadline is February 15th . Contact your program director for information & an
application.
Other scholarships available to Allied Health students; complete an application through
financial aid on-line.
EXTRA-CURRICULAR COLLEGE ACTIVITIES
Students are encouraged to inform instructors well in advance of absences for extra-curricular college
activities.
See course syllabi for policies regarding absence for extra curricular activities.
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MEDICAL ASSISTING PROGRAM Planning Sheet for FULL TIME
When
Offered
CREDIT
HRS
Keyboarding I (ADM-105)
All semesters
1
Basic A & P (BIO-161)
All semesters
3
Professionals in Health (HSC-107)
All semesters
2
Health Skills I (HSC-210)
All semesters
1
Administrative Medical Office Procedures
(MAP-123) (Must be accepted into the program)
All semesters
3
Medical Terminology (HSC-115)
All semesters
4
Microcomputer Literacy (BCA-189)
All semesters
1
SECOND SEMESTER COURSES
XXXX
Math for Medications (MAP-501)
All semesters
1
All semesters
3
All semesters
3
Basic EKG (MAP-260)
(Must have completed Basic A&P and
Med Term. Admin Med. Office Proc., HSI)
All semesters
1
MA Clinical Procedures (MAP-312)
(Must have completed A&P, Med Term, Admin Office Proc, HS1, PIH)
All semesters
3
Medical Lab (MAP-210) (Must have completed Basic A&P,
Med Term, Admin Office Proc, HS1, PIH)
All semesters
3.5
CPR for the Health Care Provider
(required prior to
Practicum) Through the Continuing Education Dept.
All semesters
First Aid Concepts (required prior to Practicum)
All semesters
PROGRAM COURSES
Date
Taken
Date
Taken
Date
Taken
Date
Taken
FIRST SEMESTER COURSES
Medical Legalities and Insurance (MAP-142)
(Must
XXX
XXX
XXX
XXX
XXX
XXX
XXX
XXX
XXX
have completed Med Term, Basic A&P)
MA Pharmacology (MAP-513)
(Must have completed A&P and Med Term.)
Through the Continuing Education Dept.
THIRD SEMESTER COURSES
XXX
XXX
All semesters
3
Must be
All semesters
3
Externship (MAP-618) (Required: completion of all Medical
Assisting Program (MAP) courses), 1st Aid/ CPR (Must show proof)
All semesters
7.0
Fund Of Communication (SPC-101)
Must be taken prior
to or during externship
Intro to Psychology (PSY-111) or COM-222
taken prior to or during Externship
The courses listed in bold are typically considered first semester course (or may be taken prior to starting
the program, the courses listed in italics are typically considered to be the final courses needed for
MA 2013-2014
24
completion of the program.
externship/practicum.
MA 2013-2014
All diploma course work must by completed prior to or during
25
MEDICAL ASSISTING PROGRAM Planning Sheet for PART TIME
PROGRAM COURSES
Recommended Order of Progression
CREDI
T
HRS
Medical Terminology (HSC-115)
4
Professionals in Health (HSC-107)
2
Basic A & P (BIO-161)
3
Health Skills I (HSC-210)
1
Microcomputer Literacy (BCA-189)
1
Keyboarding I (ADM-105)
1
Fund Of Communication (SPC-101) or
COM-222
3
Intro to Psychology (PSY-111)
3
Administrative Medical Office Proc. (MAP123) (Must be accepted into the prog.)
3
Medical Legalities and Insurance (MAP142) (Must have completed Med Term, Basic
3
When Taken
When
Taken
When
Taken
When
Taken
When
Taken
When
Taken
A&P)
Must be taken before or along with Med Lab and
Clinical proc.
MA Pharmacology (MAP-513)
(Must
have completed A&P and Med Term.) Must be taken
before or along with Med Lab and clinical Proc.
3
Math for Medications (MAP-501)
1
Basic EKG (MAP-260) (Must have completed
1
Basic A&P and Med Term. Admin Med. Office Proc.,
HSI)
Medical Lab (MAP-210) (Must have completed
Basic A&P, Med Term, Admin Office Proc, HS1,
PIH)
3.5
MA Clinical Procedures (MAP-312) (Must
have completed A&P, Med Term, Admin Office
Proc, HS1, PIH)
3
CPR for the Health Care Provider & 1st Aid
Through Continuing Education.
FINAL SEMESTER
MA 2013-2014
26
Externship (MAP-618)
7.0
(Required: completion of all Medical Assisting
Program (MAP) courses), 1st Aid and CPR (Must
show proof of 1st Aid/CPR)
Lecture is 2 hours per week for the full 16 weeks.
Clinic is 3 days a week for 10 weeks;, Monday,
Tuesday & Wednesday (8 hours per day)
MEDICAL ASSISTING PROGRAM Planning Sheet for PART TIME (cont.)
Students are required to complete all Health Science courses (HSC), Biology (BIO) as well
as all Medical Assisting (MAP) courses with a grade of C- or better. Students may not take
any MAP course along with Externship.
In order to be successful in this part time program it is highly recommended that you take
the MAP courses after completing your General Education courses. Once you begin
taking MAP courses it is highly recommended that you continue to take at least one MAP
course every semester until you complete the program.
MEDICAL ASSISTANT ASSOCIATE OF APPLIED SCIENCE DEGREE (AAS)
Associate of Applied Science degree upon completion of additional required courses.
See the program coordinator to plan MA degree coursework.
REQUIRED COURSES
SOC
ENG105
HUM*
Social Science Elective
Composition I
Humanities Elective *
Electives
3 credits
3 credits
3 credits
9 credits
*HUMANITIES include: See list following this section.
ELECTIVES (student’s elect (chose) these classes)
MA 2013-2014
27
Associate of Applied Science Degree
Humanities Requirement
Students may select from the following courses to meet the 3-semester credit hour requirement.
Courses in italics are also Associate of Arts core courses.
Courses with a (D) are approved Diversity courses.
ART
ART-101 Art Appreciation
ART-203 Art History I
ART-204 Art History II
ART-173 Ceramics
ART-133 Drawing
ART-143 Painting
ART-157 Printmaking
ART-163 Sculpture
ART-184 Photography
ART-186 Digital Photography
ART-301 Design Fundamentals
COMMUNICATION
ENG-221 Creative Writing
DRAMA
DRA-101 Introduction to Theatre
DRA-130 Acting I
DRA-163 Technical Theatre
FOREIGN LANGUAGES
FLS-118 Spanish for Professionals: Hospitality
FLS-128 Conversational Spanish
FLF-141 or FLF-142 Elementary French I or II (all 4 credits)
FLS-141 or FLS-142 Elementary Spanish I or II (D)
FLG-141 or FLG-142 Elementary German I or II (D)
ASL-141 or ASL-171 American Sign Lanaguage I or II (D)
HUMANITIES
HUM-116 Encounters in Humanities
CLS-180 American Pluralism
ANT-105 Introduction to Cultural Anthropology (D)
HUM-105 Working in America
CLS-190 Culture and Technology
CLS-192 Communication & Culture
DRA-116 Film Analysis
DRA-117 Film Topics
DRA-125 Introduction to Play Analysis
HUM-123 U.S. Film History
HUM-124 World Film History
HUM-142 Popular Culture
MA 2013-2014
28
INTERDISCIPLINARY STUDIES
BUS-223 Perspectives in International Studies
GLS120 Education Experience Abroad
MKT-187 Perspectives in International Marketing
CLS-140 Understanding Cultures: The Mideast (D)
CLS-151 Understanding Cultures: Latin America (D)
CLS-159 Understanding Cultures: Indigenous Central America (D)
CLS-162 Understanding Cultures: Pacific Societies (D)
CLS-167 Understanding Cultures: Modern China (D)
CLS-165 Understanding Cultures: Modern Japan (D)
CLS-171 Understanding Cultures: Sub-Saharan Africa (D)
CLS-211 Cultures in Transition: Central Europe
LITERATURE
LIT-203 Forms of Literature: The Story Cycle
LIT-204 Forms of Literature: Nonfiction
LIT-205 Forms of Literature: Drama
LIT-206 Forms of Literature: Fiction
LIT-207 Forms of Literature: Poetry
LIT-208 Forms of Literature: New Media
LIT-209 Forms of Literature: Film Adaptation
LIT-222 Literature & Culture: American Dreams (D)
LIT-226 Literary Themes: Search for Identity
LIT-224 Literature and Culture: Women and Work (D)
LIT-225 Literary Themes: Beyond Bartelby
LIT-227 World Poetry
LIT-105 Children's Literature
LIT-158 Literature of the African Peoples (D)
LIT-945 Selected Topics
MUSIC
MUS-100 Music Appreciation
MUA-300 – MUA-319 Applied Music (Private Music Lessons*)
MUS-140 Concert Choir
MUS-157 Vocal Jazz Ensemble
MUS-145 Concert Band
MUS-150 Chamber Ensemble - 1 credit/semester*
MUS-163 Instrumental Jazz Ensemble
MUS-165 Jazz Combo - 1 credit/semester*
MUS-209 Topics in Western Music History
*(A total of 3 credit hours are required)
PHILOSOPHY AND RELIGION
PHI-101 Introduction to Philosophy
PHI-111 Basic Reasoning
PHI-105 Introduction to Ethics
PHI-125 Native American Philosophies (D)
PHI-126 Chinese Philosophies (D)
PHI-130 Philosophy of Human Nature
MA 2013-2014
29
PHI-150 Social and Political Philosophy
PHILOSOPHY AND RELIGION (Continued)
REL-101 Survey of World Religions
REL-120 Judaism, Christianity, and Islam (D)
REL-125 Introduction to Islam (D)
REL-130 Introduction to Religions of the East (D)
REL-140 Religions in the United States
HISTORY
HIS-121 Ancient Mediterranean World
HIS-122 Europe in the Age of Monarchy
HIS-123 Europe in the Age of Revolution
HIS-124 Europe in the Age of Nationalism
HIS-135 Modern World Military History
HIS-151 U.S. History to 1877
HIS-152 U.S. History since 1877
HIS-221 Holocaust and Genocide in Memory and Literature (D)
HIS-254 American Indian History (D)
HIS-291 History of Science
Rev. 4/12/13
MA 2013-2014
30
MEDICAL ASSISTING Diploma 13-14
Term
New
Course #
Course Name
Lecture
Hours
Lab
Hours
Clinic
Hours
Total
Credit Hours
1st Sem.l
ADM-105
BCA-189
BIO-161
HSC-107
HSC-115
HSC-210
MAP-123
Introduction to Keyboarding*
Microcomputer Literacy*
Basic Anatomy and Physiology*
Professionals in Health*
Medical Terminology*
Health Skills I*
Admin Medical Office Procedure
Term totals
0
8
32
32
64
8
16
160
32
16
32
0
0
16
64
160
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
1.0
1.0
3.0
2.0
4.0
1.0
3.0
15.0
2nd Sem.
MAP-142
MAP-501
MAP-513
MAP-210
MAP-260
MAP-312
Medical Insurance & Legalities
Math For Medications
Medical Assisting Pharmacology
Medical Lab
Basic Electrocardiolography
MA Clinical Procedures
Term totals
48
16
48
24
8
24
168
0
0
0
64
16
48
128
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
3.0
1.0
3.0
3.5
1.0
3.0
14.5
3rd Sem.
MAP-618
PSY-111
SPC-101
Medical Assisting Externship
Intro to Psychology*
Fundamentals of Oral Comm*
Term totals
32
48
48
128
0
0
0
0
240
0
0
240
7.0
3.0
3.0
13.0
PROGRAM TOTALS
CREDIT AVERAGE PER TERM
456
288
240
42.5
14.3
*Courses may be taken before beginning program.
MA 2013-2014
31
MEDICAL ASSISTING Degree 13-14
Term
New
Course #
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
ADM-105
BCA-189
BIO-161
HSC-107
HSC-115
HSC-210
MAP-123
2
2
2
2
2
2
Course Name
Lecture
Hours
Lab
Hours
Clinic
Hours
Total
Credit Hours
Intro to Keyboarding*
Microcomputer Literacy*
Basic Anatomy and Physiology*
Professionals in Health*
Medical Terminology*
Health Skills I*
Admin Medical Office Procedure
Term totals
0
8
32
32
64
8
16
160
32
16
32
0
0
16
64
160
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
1.0
1.0
3.0
2.0
4.0
1.0
3.0
15.0
MAP-142
MAP-210
MAP-260
MAP-312
MAP-501
MAP-513
Medical Insurance & Legalities
Medical Lab
Basic Electrocardiolography
MA Clinical Procedures
Math For Medications
Medical Assisting Pharmacology
Term totals
48
24
8
24
16
48
168
0
64
16
48
0
0
128
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
3.0
3.5
1.0
3.0
1.0
3.0
14.5
3
3
3
SPC-101
MAP-618
PSY-111
Fundamentals of Oral Comm*
Medical Assisting Externship
Intro to Psychology*
Term totals
48
32
48
128
0
0
0
0
0
240
0
240
3.0
7.0
3.0
13.0
4
4
4
4
ELECT
ELECT
ELECT
ENG-105
Additional Courses for Applied Science Degree
Electives*
Social Science Elective*
Humanities Elective*
Composition I*
Term totals
9.0
3.0
3.0
3.0
18.0
PROGRAM TOTALS
CREDIT AVERAGE PER TERM
60.5
15.1
*Courses may be taken before beginning program.
The following are course descriptions for the Medical Assisting technical courses.
For descriptions of other courses, please access www.kirkwood.edu/catalog
A grade of C- or better is required for all MAP courses.
MAP-123
3cr
Admin Medical Office Procedure
Presents the principles of administration for the medical office including facility and supply management,
telephone and appointment techniques, managing records, and medical bookkeeping. Credits: 3, Hours:
(1/2/0/0), Prereq: none; Coreq: none; Arts & Sciences Elective Code: B; Comments: Lecture (16.00), Lab
(64.00).
MAP-142
3cr
Medical Insurance & Legalities
Provides a working knowledge of basic medical insurance programs, forms utilized and the record keeping
of insurance claims. Also includes medical ethics and legalities related to medicine. Credits: 3, Hours:
(3/0/0/0), Prereq: BIO-161, HSC-115; Coreq: none; Arts & Sciences Elective Code: B; Comments:
Lecture (48.00).
MAP-210
3.5cr
Medical Lab
Provides basic principles and skills in hematology, urinalysis, venipuncture, blood chemical exams, and
quality control as applied to the medical office. Credits: 3.5, Hours: (1.5/4/0/0), Prereq: BIO-161, HSC-107,
HSC-115, HSC-210, MAP-123; Coreq: none; Arts & Sciences Elective Code: B; Comments: Lecture
(24.00), Lab (64.00).
MAP-260
1cr
Basic Electrocardiography
Provides instruction in electrocardiography including psychological and physical preparation of a patient
for an ECG: paper set-up and operation of equipment, mounting of tracings and troubleshooting to obtain
acceptable tracings. This course does not include complex interpretation and diagnosis of cardiac
rhythms. Credits: 1, Hours: (0.5/1/0/0), Prereq: BIO-161, HSC-107, HSC-115, HSC-210, MAP-123;
Coreq: none; Arts & Sciences Elective Code: B; Comments: Lecture (8.00), Lab
(16.00).
MAP-312
3cr
MA Clinical Procedures
Includes basic clinical skills used in a medical office: preparing for the patient's visit; assisting the
physician and patient during examination and treatment, including minor surgery; positioning, microbiology
and sterilization; X-rays; physical therapy; nutrition; and administration of injected medications as
applied to the medical office. Credits: 3, Hours: (1.5/3/0/0), Prereq: BIO-161, HSC-107, HSC-115, HSC210, MAP-123; Coreq: none; Arts & Sciences Elective Code: B; Comments: Lecture (24.00), Lab (48.00).
MAP-501
1cr
Math for Medications
Provides a basic mathematical background for an understanding of measurement systems and the
calculation of dosages of oral and parenteral medications for medical assisting. Credits: 1, Hours:
(1/0/0/0), Prereq: none; Coreq: none; Arts & Sciences Elective Code: B; Comments: Lecture (16.00).
MAP-513
3cr
Medical Assisting Pharmacology
Provides a basic background in the classification of drugs, their sources, uses and legal implications.
Discusses characteristics of typical drugs, side effects, precautions, interactions and patient education.
Credits: 3, Hours: (3/0/0/0), Prereq: BIO-161, HSC-115; Coreq: none; Arts & Sciences Elective Code: B;
Comments: Lecture (48.00).
MAP-616
7cr
Medical Assisting Externship
Offers supervised practical experience in medical offices, clinics and other medical care settings. Credits:
7, Hours: (2/0/15/0), Prereq: MAP-123, MAP-210, MAP-312; MAP-142, MAP-260, MAP-501, MAP-512;
Arts & Sciences Elective Code: B; Comments: All Medical Assisting technical courses must be completed.
Lecture (32.00), Clinical (240.00).
All diploma requirements must be completed prior to or during the semester a student is
registered for Externship.
MAP-924
1cr
Honors Project
Allows a qualified honors student to pursue a special concentration of study under the guidance of a
faculty member. Requires completion of an honors project contract. May be taken more than once.
Credits: 1, Hours: (1/0/0/0), Prereq: none; Coreq: none; Arts & Sciences Elective Code: A; Comments:
Requires approval of supervising professor and dean Lecture (16.00).
MAP-928
1-3cr
Independent Study (Studies in Health Science)
Provides readings, papers and basic research or other projects under the individual guidance of a staff
member. Credits: 1, Hours: (1/0/0/0), Prereq: none; Coreq: none; Arts & Sciences Elective Code: A;
Comments: Permission of instructor, dean Lecture (16.00).
MA 2013-2014
34
Applied Science and Technology Program Cost Estimate
School Year 2013-14
Medical Assisting – Diploma
Entry: Fall, Spring or Summer
SEMESTER
Credit hours per semester
First
Semester
Second
Semester
Third
Semester
TOTAL
15
14.5
13
42.5
$2,100.00
$2,030.00
$1,820.00
$5,950.00
College Fees:
Tuition
Health exams/X-ray HepB Vac.
Program Fees:
$350.00
$350.00
Textbooks
$550.00
$350.00
$150.00
$1,050.00
Class related supplies
$80.00
$35.00
$35.00
$150.00
Uniform/Name badge/Stethoscope/Watch
$250.00
National Certification Exam
Clinic background check (if repeated)
TOTALS:
•
•
•
•
•
•
$250.00
$125.00
$60.00
$2,790.00
$125.00
$60.00
$3,015.00
$2,130.00
$7,935.00
Health insurance is required for any University of Iowa externships. It is estimated to cost approximately $800 for the
last semester.
Tuition is based on Fall 2013 at $140*/credit hour
Textbook prices are subject to change
Health exams are estimated costs
Tuition based on Fall 2013 for non-resident students is $170*/credit hour
Tuition based on Fall 2013 for international students is $280*/credit hour
Applied Science and Technology Program Cost Estimate
School Year 2013-14
Medical Assisting – AAS Degree
Entry: Fall, Spring or Summer
ADDTL
COURSES
SEMESTER
Credit hours per semester
FALL
SPRING
SUMMER
AAS DEGREE
TOTAL
15
14.5
13
18
60.5
$2,100.00
$2,030.00
$1,820.00
$2,553.60
$8,470.00
College Fees:
Tuition
Health exams/X-ray HepB Vac.
$350.00
$350.00
Program Fees:
Textbooks
$550.00
$350.00
$150.00
Class related supplies
$80.00
$35.00
$35.00
Uniform/Name badge
TOTALS:
•
•
•
•
•
•
$250
$125.00
$125.00
$60.00
$2,790.00
$1,400.00
$150.00
$250
National Certification Exam
Clinic background check (if repeated)
$350.00
$60.00
$3,015.00
$2,130.00
$2,903.60
$10,805.00
Health insurance is required for any University of Iowa externships. It is estimated to cost approximately $800 for the
last semester.
Tuition is based on Fall 2013 at $140*/credit hour
Textbook prices are subject to change
Health exams are estimated costs
Tuition based on Fall 2013 for non-resident students is $170*/credit hour
Tuition based on Fall 2013 for international students is $280*/credit hour
MA 2013-2014
36
SECTION IIIB
CLASSROOM/LAB/CLINIC
CLASSROOM/LABORATORY/CLINIC POLICIES
Children are not allowed in the classroom, lab or Externship sites at any time. Cell phones and pagers
must be turned off during class time and are not allowed in the clinic settings. Students should provide
caregivers etc. with the main Allied Health phone number (319-398-5566) for cases of emergency. Office
staff will locate students as necessary. Students may not operate laboratory equipment or participate in
any activity that has a potential for injury without an instructor present. Materials utilized in the classroom,
lab or clinic are to be returned to their proper location and may not be removed.
Peer grading and assessments are done in most MAP classes. Students bear the responsibility to grade
and mark appropriately. Instructors will review student-graded papers. If the correct score is not properly
documented both the student whose work it is and the student who graded the work will have points
deducted from their scores. It is essential that students are able to pay attention to detail and grade
properly.
CLASS ATTENDANCE
Regular class attendance is expected of each student enrolled in the Medical Assistant program. If it
becomes necessary to miss a class you should notify your instructor(s). You can leave a message on
voice mail or you may email from your Kirkwood e-mail address. In most cases the instructor will work
with you to make up the work. It is the student’s responsibility to get notes, handouts and assignments
from a classmate if absent.
Lecture attendance requirements for MAP courses
Any student who misses more than a quarter of the total number of lecture classes (hours) will be
required to drop the class due to having missed considerable course content.
16 week semester
must attend at least 12 sessions
12 week session
must attend at least 9 sessions (if meeting once a week)
must attend at least 20 sessions if meeting twice a week
8 week session
must attend at least 6 sessions
Lab attendance requirements for MAP courses
Any student who is late for or misses more than three (3) lab sessions will be required to drop
the class as their ability to perform class activities knowledgably and/or safely is
compromised.
PROGRAM PROGRESSION
All students must obtain a grade of C- or higher for all Medical Assisting (MAP) courses, Basic Anatomy &
Physiology, Medical Terminology, Health Skills I and Professionals in Health.
MA 2013-2014
37
A student who fails an MAP course (less than C-) will be required to meet with the course instructor and
complete an academic plan for success.
A student who fails to pass an MAP class (C- or better) after two attempts will be required to
withdraw from the program and may not reapply for admission to the Medical Assisting program.
Medical Assisting students must be enrolled in at least one MAP course each semester in order to remain
active in the program.
The student must make every effort to take Medical Lab and Clinical Procedures as close to Externship as
possible. If a student decides to drop a class due to their class load being too great they must drop Med
Lab or Clinical Procedures rather than Pharmacology or Medical Insurance and Legalities. This will mean
that the technical classes will be completed immediately prior to Externship. In other words,
Pharmacology and Medical Insurance and Legalities are pre-reqs or co-reqs for the Lab classes.
If a student stops out of the program for more than one semester, they will be required to sign up for the
course “Studies in Health Science” in order to review past material and to prepare for upcoming courses.
These students must meet with the program director and be approved access to Studies in Health
Science. Additionally students who stop out for one year will be required to repeat their criminal
background check and physical and update their compliance record.
Any student who stops out for more than one semester must meet with a program faculty prior to
registering for any MAP course.
Any student re-entering the program with program courses that were taken more than two years ago will
be required to retake the courses as the content will have changed and/or been updated. Medical
Terminology, Basic Anatomy and Physiology, Health skills I and Professionals in Health are foundations to
the program courses and a good understanding of them is essential for the subsequent program courses.
It is highly advisable to have taken these courses within 3 years of starting this program. Students bear
the responsibility of retaining information relevant to be successful in the program.
COMPLETION
Once enrolled in the Medical Assisting Program students are encouraged to follow the recommended plan
for completion to earn a diploma/degree within a two-year period. To receive a diploma or degree a
student must have at least a 2.0 grade point average and successfully complete all required courses.
Students using the recommended part time plan must complete general education courses prior to starting
any MAP courses. Once beginning MAP courses students must take at least one MAP course each
semester until completion of the program.
SOCIAL MEDIA POLICY
The Medical Assisting Program at Kirkwood Community College supports the use of technology inside
and outside the classroom. This support comes with the expectation that students in the Medical
Assisting Program will uphold the ethical standards of their profession as well as those of the College.
The federal regulations regarding privacy (ie: HIPAA and FERPA) apply to all personal and academic
communication.
No information identifying a patient, patient situation or clinical facility may be posted on any social media
website. Social media outlets include but are not limited to: Facebook, Linkedln, MySpace, YouTube,
MA 2013-2014
38
Twitter, etc. Healthcare workers have been terminated for discussing patient cases on Facebook even
though no names were included. Students have been terminated from clinical sites for similar reasons.
Student use of photography and/or recording devices is prohibited in all classroom and laboratory settings,
unless formal permission of the instructor is granted before the fact. Photography and recording devices
as well as cell phones are absolutely prohibited in the clinical setting.
Do not give healthcare advice on social media sites. Do not ‘friend’ any patients on a social media site.
Any violation of this policy must be reported to the program faculty/clinical facility as a possible HIPAA
violation. Disciplinary actions will be taken accordingly. The Dean of Students will be involved.
Violation of this policy may result in the student being banned from the clinical facility and/or
immediately expelled from the Medical Assisting Program. Additionally he/she may be subjected
to an investigation by the Federal Office of Civil Rights.
Signature__________________________ Date_________________
Witness___________________________ Date_________________
EXTERNSHIP POLICIES AND RULES
Externship Assignments - All clinical assignments will be arranged at the discretion of the faculty based
on clinic site availability and student learning experiences. Students are responsible for transportation to
the clinic site and parking. Clinical assignments will not be arranged or re-arranged for students based on
student employment or other personal circumstances. Kirkwood Community College serves a 7-county
area and externship sites are expected to be within this area.
Attendance in externship is vital. The attendance policy for program courses is enforced during
externship.
Externship is the student’s opportunity to practice what they have learned in class and laboratory.
Students will not be allowed to attend externship where they are employed, with their personal or family
physician, or with a physician who employs other members of their family. Students are expected to
follow the same rules and guidelines as the employees in their clinical assignment. This clinical
assignment is an educational experience, not a job, however professional behavior is stressed.
Students may not register for the externship section until all MAP courses are successfully completed.
All diploma courses must be completed prior to or be taken with externship. (Microcomputer Literacy,
Keyboarding, Intro to Psychology, Fundamentals of Communication.) Students must show proof of the
correct level of CPR and their First Aid prior to being able to register for Externship (Practicum). (Give a
copy to Carol in 2164 Linn Hall)
The externship site has the right to terminate any student at their facility. If a student is asked to leave
because of failure to perform adequately, not following clinic rules, jeopardizing patient care, or behavioral
problems, the student must drop the course (or take an F grade) and wait until the next semester to repeat
the course. *The student must have approval of the Medical Assisting faculty and evidence of remediation
before repeating Externship.
Externship includes a practicum of 240 hours (30 days) of supervised, unpaid experience in an
ambulatory care center (three eight-hour days per week for 10 weeks) and a weekly seminar held
on campus.
STUDENT UNIFORMS
MA 2013-2014
39
Students are representing all medical assistants as well as the Kirkwood Community College Medical
Assisting Program while in uniform, which calls for mature, responsible behavior. This uniform is only to be
worn for the Medical Lab & Clinical Procedures and during their practicum.
The uniform will consist of
 white leather shoes with toes and heels
 ceil blue scrubs as required by the MA program. It is recommended that students have two sets of
scrubs.
 Optional white lab coat
 a Kirkwood nametag that identifies you as a KCC student by first name and last initial. These are
ordered through the technical course instructor(s).
 a white long sleeved turtleneck or white tee shirt is acceptable under the uniform.
Maintain a neat and well groomed appearance:
 hair neatly combed. Loose tendrils or hair hanging over the face must be secured.
 earring - One pair of small spot or button type are acceptable. No more than 1 set may be worn in
clinic. They should be no larger than a pea and can be white, pearl, gold or silver
 hair bows and ribbons are unacceptable in health setting and while in uniform
 all other visible areas which are pierced must be jewelry free.
 all tattoos must be covered.
 no ‘extreme’ hair colors, shadings or styles are permitted during the practicum. (If students
have questions regarding this requirement please meet with the Medical Assisting faculty/program
director.)
 wedding and engagement rings are allowed. Remove all other jewelry and rings while in a clinical
setting.
 nails must be kept short and clean. You may wear clear nail polish. No artificial nails!
 wear make-up in moderation.
 avoid using perfume.
 practice good hygiene.
TESTING
Testing may be delivered in any of the following formats;
Written pencil and paper
Computer based (Perception or Angel)
Performance exams
Make-up and late arrival policies
See class syllabi
Cheating
If during the examination an instructor observes a student communicating with another student, looking at
another test paper or having material other than the exams in sight, the instructor will take the test, a zero
will be given and you will be reported to the Dean of Student Development. See the KCC student
handbook for policy. When it comes to one student’s word against another student the instructor has the
right to request an alternative test be administered.
CONFIDENTIALITY
Students in the program will maintain strict confidentiality of protected health information. This includes
oral, written and electronic information. This is an important attribute of professionalism. A student
violating this policy may be asked to leave the Externship site, jeopardizing continuation in the program.
Students in health care facilities may be asked to sign a confidentiality statement.
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Students have had HIPAA Training and must adhere to its guidelines whenever appropriate. Students
must understand that all electronic medical records have tracking and auditing functions that monitor who
has accessed records. Students should be aware that their access to records will be audited.
In accordance with provisions of public law 93-380 as amended (P.L. 935668), the Family Educational
Rights and Privacy Act 1974, commonly known as FERPA, all faculty and staff have the responsibility to
maintain confidentiality pertaining to student records.
1. No information will be released about student grades to a third party unless the student has given
written consent. “Third party” includes parents, family members, and potential employers.
2. It is the policy of this program and the Allied Health Department not to release directory information
(phone numbers & addresses) without prior consent.
PROFESSIONALISM
Students are representatives of their programs and future professions, and as such, are expected to be
professional in the classroom and at the Externship sites. The conditions of patients should be discussed
only with the professional personnel directly connected with the care of the patient. A discussion of
personal information of patients in public places is a violation of the code of ethics and HIPAA.
Professional relations must be observed during clinical experiences. Students are not to leave their
assigned Externship area without permission from their supervisor and instructor.
All accidents or errors that occur during Externship must be reported to the instructor.
Students are NOT to sign or witness the signature of patients at any time.
Misconduct or negligence in complying with the rules and regulations of the program will be considered
unethical practice.
Students must be willing accept constructive criticism in the classroom and during their externship. This is
done in the spirit of guiding the student to a successful career as a medical assistant.
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CLINICAL COMPLIANCE
Complete up-to-date information on all requirements for clinic compliance is on the program website at
www.kirkwood.edu/alliedhealth. It is the student’s responsibility to read, follow and meet all requirements
and deadlines listed.
LIABILITY COVERAGE
All currently registered students are covered by Kirkwood’s Professional Liability Insurance during
assigned externship hours. You are not covered if you are asked to work extra for pay. The provider’s
liability insurance must cover you during those hours. See the Student Statement for further explanation.
WEATHER
The college may cancel or postpone classes due to weather conditions. This will be announced on local
Cedar Rapids, Iowa City, and Waterloo radio and TV stations. (Listen for Kirkwood Community College
NOT College Community Schools.) Classes will not normally be made-up. Any test or activities
scheduled that day will be held on the next regular class day. If the college delays the start time, classes
will begin at that time, [even if it is in the middle of the normal class time]. Faculty will provide instructions
in the course syllabi for clinical courses and unusual circumstances. If students decide they cannot come
to class or externship due to weather conditions in their area, the appropriate faculty must be notified.
Students are expected to make appropriate judgments based on their situation. Each student situation will
be evaluated individually by faculty.
It is highly recommended that students sign up for the Kirkwood Alert system at the website
www.kirkwood.edu/alert
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SECTION III C
REGISTRATION/GRADES
REGISTRATION
The sequence of courses in the program has been carefully planned to ensure the most effective and
efficient presentation of curriculum. Program advisors will assist students in following the curriculum and
registering for the proper course sections. Students who plan to transfer to a 4-year college should meet
with their advisor regarding transfer courses where appropriate. Students will be notified of pre-registration
times. Students are responsible for successful completion of all course prerequisites prior to
registering.
1. The student must have no registration holds. Holds may be due to parking fines, library fines,
incomplete health physical or immunizations or outstanding financial obligations to the college.
2. Students on academic probation or with an academic warning must meet with a counselor in Student
Development (115 Iowa Hall) before their registration can be processed.
Registration Priority: Students who are registered currently will be notified through the mail and e-mail
of their registration priority. Registration priority determines the earliest time that you will be allowed to
register for classes. As a Kirkwood Community College student, it is your responsibility to follow
procedures that assure valid registration for courses.
**Easy to follow registration instructions are available on Eagle Net at the Kirkwood website.
CHANGE OF REGISTRATION
If it becomes necessary to drop or add a course after registration, the student must see their program
director, complete a change of registration form and personally take it to the Enrollment Services office
(216 Kirkwood Hall). If circumstances prevent a student from continued attendance in a course, a change
of registration form must be completed. If a student does not continue to attend a course, but fails to
withdraw from the course, the instructor will assign an "FW" or "failure to withdraw" grade. Each semester
has a last day to drop classes indicated on the academic calendar. The last day to drop is 75% through a
course. See the academic calendar or course syllabus for specific information. Refer to the student
handbook for information regarding tuition reimbursement.
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GRADES
Kirkwood uses a 4.0 grading system. Kirkwood grades and their meanings are given below:
A
AB+
B
BC+
C
CD+
D
DF
4.0
3.67
3.33
3.00
2.67
2.33
2.00
1.67
1.33
1.00
0.67
0
P
Q
I
E
T
N
W
X
O
Passing-credit
No credit
Incomplete
Excused Without Credit
Credit by Examination
Audit
Withdrew from Course
Course repeated
Original grade removed
All students in the Medical Assisting program must obtain at least a C- in health Skills I, Professionals in
Health, Basic Anatomy & Physiology (or both A&P I and II), Medical Terminology (4 credits) and all
Medical Assisting (MAP) courses.
The grades A, B, C, D, and F are included in the computation of grade point average - [see college
handbook for computing grade point average]
All Allied Health Core Courses (Medical Terminology, Basic Anatomy & Physiology, Health Skills I, and
Professionals in Health must be passed with a C- or better.
Grading scales for individual courses are found in each course syllabus.
PHI THETA KAPPA HONOR SOCIETY
What is Phi Theta Kappa?
Phi Theta Kappa is an international honor society for students in two-year colleges. Kirkwood Community
College has an active chapter, named Alpha Eta Rho, headquartered in the Arts and Humanities
Department, 337 Cedar Hall.
What are the benefits?
• Members are eligible for more than $30 million in scholarships at four-year institutions nationwide
when they transfer from Kirkwood. A complete list of scholarships can be found on the PTK web site:
www.ptk.org.
• Members wear a gold honors stole and tassel at Commencement.
• Members receive a gold PTK key lapel pin, membership certificate, and ID card.
• Members are automatically recommended for the National Dean’s List.
• Members may compete for other honors.
• Phi Theta Kappa membership is noted on the Kirkwood transcript and the Phi Theta Kappa seal
appears on members’ Kirkwood diploma.
• Best of all, members may join with other Alpha Eta Rho members in the activities of a thriving local
chapter, and may qualify to attend regional or national meetings.
What are the eligibility requirements?
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A 3.5 grade point average and at least 12 credits earned toward an AA, AS, AS/CO, or AAS degree are
required to become a member. A 3.4 GPA must be maintained to sustain membership.
How much does membership cost?
As of fall semester 2000, membership in the local, regional, and national association will total $50.00. A
typical transfer scholarship to a Phi Theta Kappa member from a four-year college or university will be
from $500 - $5000—a good return on a $50 investment!
Is this only for arts and sciences students?
Definitely not. Members include students from all programs, all Kirkwood locations, daytime and evening,
full-time and part-time students. A non-active (registered) membership, also $50, is available for students
who cannot participate in chapter meetings or activities.
FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT THE ARTS & HUMANITIES DEPARTMENT, 398-4913
SATISFACTORY PROGRESS
College regulations require a minimum cumulative grade point average of 2.0 to graduate with an AAS.
Program graduation also requires a GPA of 2.0. Academic probation may be given for either a grade point
average of less than 2.0 in any given term, or for failure to maintain satisfactory progress. In light of
requirements for completion, failure to maintain satisfactory progress will be considered as a GPA below
2.00 in any given semester, and/or a grade of "F" in any prerequisite course work. A student on academic
probation must maintain a GPA of 2.00 or greater the next semester. Continuation in the program is
contingent upon maintaining satisfactory progress during "probationary status".
STUDENT SUCCESS
We as instructors in the Medical Assistant program want you to succeed and achieve the following goals:

Develop the skills and knowledge necessary to enter the field of health care as an entry level
medical assistant able to perform administrative, clinical and laboratory work.

Develop a respect for yourself and others and learn to work cooperatively with peers, patients and
other members of the health care team.

Identify and incorporate the ethical values and principles expected of a health care professional.
In the Spring and Fall semesters, mid-semester grades will be posted on Eaglenet. If course grades are
below average at mid term, you should make an appointment with that instructor to try to determine what
you can do to succeed. If you still fail, you should make an appointment with the instructor to discuss
what you can do to succeed if you retake the course. You will also be required to meet with an advisor in
Student Development (115 Iowa Hall) to make a plan for success before you retake the class. The
college does not require mid-term notification during the summer. All Medical Assisting students are
encouraged to speak to their instructors regarding the progress they are making in each class.
WITHDRAWAL FROM THE PROGRAM
A student who finds it necessary to withdraw from the program may do so either through the program
director or Student Development (115 Iowa Hall). Please inform the program director of your intent.
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The program reserves the right to request the withdrawal of any student
whose health, work, or conduct is determined to be detrimental to the health
and safety of themselves, other students or patients.
READMISSION TO THE PROGRAM
If readmission is sought after exiting the program, the student will be required to fulfill the current
curriculum and program requirements for graduation. Readmission is contingent upon available space in
the class and completion of admission requirements. Students may be required to take an additional
course to evaluate where they actually are in the program. Stopping out and readmitting ultimately
impacts the externship site and patients. Students must be able to perform correctly both in class as well
as in externship. If seeking readmission the student bears responsibility to have retained the information
from Basic A&P, HSI, Professionals in Health and Medical Terminology. The two year rule applies to
program courses. Stopping out of the program may result in having to repeat a criminal background
check and physical. Should a student not complete a program course (two unsuccessful attempts) the
student is out of the program. Should the student want to pursue the program again, they start over with
the admission criteria as well as repeating all course work.
See Kirkwood Student Handbook for other withdrawal and readmission policies, such as readmission
following academic suspension.
PART- TIME STATUS
Students who are unable to complete the program in the normal sequence of courses must meet with their
advisor and plan the sequence of courses. Registration in classes on a part-time basis is not
guaranteed. Registration is on a space available basis.
COMMUNICATIONS
Email communication with program faculty must be through the Kirkwood email system. Students should
activate their email account as soon as possible and monitor it regularly. Instructors are not obligated to
respond to non-Kirkwood e-mail addresses.
Open, honest communication between students and faculty is extremely important. If students encounter
difficulty with the content and/or methods used in a particular course, it is the student’s responsibility to
make an appointment with the instructor during regular office hours. If a conflict arises between the
student and instructor and they are unable to resolve an issue, the student should request a meeting with
the program director.
Students are encouraged to carefully read their course syllabi for specific requirements and policies
applicable to specific courses.
GRIEVANCE & ACADEMIC APPEAL POLICY
For concerns or appeals, students should first meet with the course instructor and then, if necessary, the
program director, then the department dean. These concerns should be addressed as soon as possible.
Grade appeals must be presented within 60 days from the date of which the grade was assigned. Refer to
the Kirkwood Student Handbook for additional information.
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SECTION IV
PROGRAM COMPLETION
ACADEMIC and GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS
All students graduating from this program must successfully complete all required program courses and
achieve a 2.0 cumulative grade point average in these courses. .
No “D” developmental level courses are accepted as course substitutions in this program. These courses
have a "D" in the course catalog number. For example: PT080, Pre-algebra.
All students must complete an “Application to Graduate” by the following application deadlines:
Graduation
Deadline
Spring
February 1
Summer
February 1
Fall
September 1
Courses in the curriculum are sequential. For this reason, students who do not pass a prerequisite course
must successfully complete that course before continuing in the curriculum. Refer to the course
descriptions in the college catalog for prerequisites.
Students may not graduate:
• with an incomplete, “F” or no pass grade in any program course.
• if they have any registration holds such as outstanding fines.
Students are awarded a Medical Assistant Diploma after completing the one year program and an
Associate of Applied Science degree after completion of second year.
STUDENT/GRADUATE INPUT
Students will be asked for input and suggestions in most courses. Given the diverse learning styles and
backgrounds of a class, it is always challenging for faculty to find methods to satisfy the learning needs of
each student. Students are encouraged to be open and honest in providing feedback to faculty. Students
are entitled to anonymity when providing feedback. Any intimidation or retribution resulting from feedback
should be reported to the Dean of the Allied Health Department.
Near the end of the program, students will be asked to complete a survey assessing program strengths
and areas for improvement. A follow up survey will that be sent to all graduates for us to obtain feedback
related to the program curriculum. Graduate feedback is viewed as an extremely valuable resource for
curriculum review and revision. Additional informal suggestions are encouraged. Graduates are asked to
inform the program director of all professional accomplishments including awards, promotions and
publications.
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CERTIFICATION
Students who successfully complete this program with a diploma or AAS are eligible to sit for the Certified
Medical Assistant Examination. Those passing this examination are awarded the credential of Certified
Medical Assistant, CMA(AAMA) This certification is not required to work in the state of Iowa but is
strongly encouraged as recognition of your professional competence. This certification is recognized in all
50 states. Many Cedar Rapids area employers do require employees be certified. Only graduates of
schools accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Program (CAAHEP) are eligible to
take this exam. The Kirkwood Medical Assistant program is accredited by this organization.
ARTICULATIONS
After earning an AAS MA degree a student may opt to continue their education. At the time of this printing
there is no 4-year degree in Medical Assisting. A student may pursue any of the following:
APPLIED BUSINESS - Bachelor's degree
Mount Mercy College will accept 63 credit hours toward a Bachelor of Applied Science degree.
HEALTH SERVICES ADMINISTRATION - Bachelor's degree
Mount Mercy College will accept 63 credit hours toward a Bachelor of Applied Science degree.
BACHELOR OF ARTS IN SPECIAL STUDIES – St. Ambrose University, Davenport, Iowa for registered
nurses and allied health graduates.
BACHELOR OF APPLIED STDIES-University of Iowa
LIBERAL STUDIES OR APPLIED STUDIES Bachelors degree
University of Iowa
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Section V
GENERAL INFORMATION
For Further Information, Contact us at:
Kirkwood Community College
Allied Health Department, 2164 Linn Hall
6301 Kirkwood Blvd. SW
Cedar Rapids, IA 52406
Allied Health Phone: 319-398-5566
Allied Health FAX: 319-398-1293
Kirkwood's toll-free number: 1-800-332-2055
College web site: www.kirkwood.edu/alliedhealth
Program Director and Advisor:
Dawn Eitel, BAS, CMA (AAMA)
319-398-5564
dawn.eitel@kirkwood.edu
Faculty and Advisors:
Peg Donohoe, LPN, CMA (AAMA)
319-398-5899 ext 5337
peg.donohoe@kirkwood.edu
Tanya Scott, MS, CMA(AAMA)
319-398-5899 ext 5328
tanya.scott@kirkwood.edu
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