Career Options
- Audiology Assistant
- Dental Aide
- Departmental Supervisor
- EEG Technician
- EMG Technician
- Histology Assistant
- Home Care Aide
- In-Serv. Educator-Medical
- Medical Admin. Assistant
- Medical Lab Technician
- Medical Records Clerk
- Medical Transcriptionist
- Office Manager
- Optometric Assistant
- Phlebotomist
- Receptionist
Potential advancement generally requires further education
Contact Information:
Pam Christianson
Medical Assistant Program Director
406-771-4411
pamela.christianson@msugf.edu
Megann McDonald
Administrative Associate
406-771-4350
megann.mcdonald@msugf.edu
Medical Assistant
Associate of Applied Science Degree
Medical Assistants are specially trained to work in ambulatory medical settings such as physicians’ offices, clinics, and surgical centers. These multiskilled allied health personnel can function in both administrative and clinical areas. The Medical Assistant Program offered at Montana State University-COT Great Falls, MT is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (www.caahep.org) on the recommendation of the Medical Assisting Education Review Board (MAERB). The Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs, 1361 Park Street, Clearwater, Florida 33756, phone (727)210-2350, fax (727) 210-2354. Upon graduation from an accredited program, students are eligible to sit for the certifying examination through the AAMA.
Outcomes: Graduates are prepared to:
- Perform many “front office” tasks including insurance billing, bookkeeping, and scheduling appointments and procedures;
- Collect and prepare laboratory specimens and perform basic laboratory tests;
- Perform diagnostic tests, such as suture removal, electrocardiography, and “back office” duties;
- Assist in patient care: screen patients, take vital signs, assist with office procedures, and patient exams;
- Administer medications applying pharmacology principles; maintain medical and immunization records under medical provider’s supervision;
- Respond to and initiate written communications in a professional manner to patients and medical facilities;
- Follow legal guidelines in maintaining documentation and patient records and nderstand and apply HIPPA guidelines in the office setting; and
- Utilize computer software competently for various medical office functions.