Medical Assisting

Program Mission Statement

The mission of the Ogeechee Technical College Medical Assisting Program is to provide a quality hands-on education to its students and prepare its graduates to become entry level employees in a health care setting according to the minimum requirement of the 61 competencies outlined by the AAMA through CAAHEP. Graduates will be encouraged to validate their knowledge by sitting for the National Certified Medical Assistant exam.

Frequently Asked Questions for Medical Assisting

The Medical Assisting Program trains students for employment in physician offices, outpatient surgery centers, and some areas of hospitals.  Students learn both administrative and clinical skills.  The administrative skills allow you to work in the front office greeting patients, scheduling appointments, filing insurance, or records management.  Clinical skills include vital signs, venipuncture, medication administration and assisting the physician with procedures.  Skills vary depending on the type of practice you work for.

1. How long is the program? There are seven required core classes that must be taken prior to entering the MA program. Once those are completed, the program is four quarter in length. Most students can complete the entire program in 6 quarters.
2. Will my courses from other programs transfer? Most core classes will transfer into Medical Assisting. No program classes from other programs will transfer into Medical Assisting, even though the subject matter is similar. Likewise, Medical Assisting courses will not transfer to other programs. Transfer credits from other schools can be evaluated by the Registrar's office. The student must request the evaluation of credit once their transcripts are sent to OTC.
3. What is the liability insurance fee? This fee provides liability insurance for you while you are a student and in your externship through a school policy. The fee must be paid prior to registration. If you are out for a quarter, the policy for you will lapse and you will have to pay the $24 fee again. The school policy cannot cover you if you are not enrolled.
4. Where will I extern? OTC uses physician offices only in our service area of Bulloch, Evans, and Screven counties. A variety of offices are used for the 10-week externship. Students will be given a choice as to what type of practice they prefer, however, the final decision is up to the program instructors.
5. "I have heard about the drug calculations test. Do I really have to make 100%?" Because medication administration is such an important aspect of medical care, yes, you have to be proficient in drug calculation. One mistake can cause a patient severe complications or even death. Approximately 98,000 people die each year from medical mistakes, including medication errors. Having the right attitude about drug calculations will help you tremendously. My suggestion is not to worry about this skill until you learn the techniques!
6. What is a CMA? A CMA is a Certified Medical Assistant. Only graduates who have successfully passed the national exam may use these credentials. Certification is not mandatory for employment, however, it is preferred. Certification implies that you take pride in your profession and want to uphold higher standards. The certification examination is given in January, June, and October. Certification is good for a period of seven (7) years and may be renewed through continuing education or retaking the examination. In most situations, certification will mean an increase in salary.
7. Can I finish the program early? No, the program sequence is built around competencies. Each quarter builds on the previous quarter. Not all classes are offered every quarter and classes must be taken in sequence.
8. Can I take classes at night or online? Core classes are offered in the evening, as well as some of the program lecture classes. Some program classes are also offered online through the Georgia Virtual Technical College. The online classes require proctored exams on the campus of OTC or another college in the TCSG system.
9. What is the salary for a Medical Assistant? In our local area, salaries range from $17,500 - $21,800 per year. Salaries are higher in urban areas.
10. What is the job market for Medical Assistants? Currently we have a placement rate of 86%.