A discussion of the structure and function of the body, including cells and tissues, organs, systems, and the body as a whole, including a study of body cells and the types of tissues. Students will be introduced to anatomical position and direction, as well as body function balance, which includes homeostasis, feedback loop, negative and positive feedback. Students will also learn the root words, prefixes and suffixes related to tissues, organs, systems body cavities, and the body as a whole.

A discussion of the structure and function of the Integumentary, Skeletal, and Urinary Systems of the body, including words, prefixes, and suffixes related to the:

• Integumentary System ‐ appendages, integument, and membranes, synovia and synovial fluid, skin damage by burns and the classes of burns, and skin disorders, functions, and infections.
• Skeletal System ‐ the names, functions, and types of bones, microscopic structures of bone and cartilage, formation and growth of bones, normal and abnormal spinal curves, differences of male and female skeleton, joints and movement of joints, range of motion, and skeletal disorders.
• Urinary System ‐ the location, microscopic and internal structure and function of the kidneys, urinalysis, urine formation, ureters, bladder and urethra, micturition, renal and urinary disorders such as obstructive disorders, UTI's, acute and chronic glomerulonephritis, and renal failure.

A discussion of the structure and function of the Muscular and Digestive Systems of the Body, including the root words, prefixes, and suffixes as follows:

• Muscular System ‐ includes an introduction to and discussion of disorders and types of muscle movement as well as the distinction between skeletal, cardiac, and smooth muscle.
• Digestive System ‐ an introduction to the alimentary canal, gastrointestinal tract, digestion, absorption and metabolism. Introduces the mouth, palates, uvula, teeth, and salivary glands, liver, gallbladder, pancreas, and intestines. A discussion of nutrition and nutritive deficiency diseases are also covered.

A discussion of the structure and function of the heart, blood and blood vessels and the respiratory systems of the body, including the roots words, prefixes, and suffixes related to the heart, blood and blood vessels and the respiratory system. Specific areas of study will include the chambers of the heart, layers of the heart, heart action, heart valves, heart sounds, blood flow, coronary circulation, pulmonary and systematic circulation, the lungs, trachea, larynx, pharynx, and nasal cavity, and the two basic functions of air distribution and gas exchange, as well as cardiopulmonary procedures, and disorders.

An introduction to the structure and function of the Endocrine and Reproductive Systems of the Body, including the regulation of hormone secretion, hormone glands (pituitary, thyroid, parathyroid, adrenal glands, pancreas, and the male and female hormones and sex glands) and their functions, as well as male and female reproductive organs, their structural plan, function, disorders, and diseases. Also includes the root words, prefixes, and suffixes related to the endocrine and reproductive systems of the body.

A discussion of the structure and function of the Special Senses and Nervous System of the Body, including classification of sense organs and receptors, structure of the eye and structure of the ear. The senses of taste and smell are examined. Also includes an introduction to the root words, prefixes, and suffixes related to the nervous system and special senses of the body.

Introduction to the basic routine of the medical office. Emphasis on skills relative to patient physical examination, including charting, measuring vital signs, obtaining a medical history and assisting the physician with examinations. Instruction in radiology: its uses, clinical indications, and patient preparation. Students will also study cultural and ethnic sensitivity as it applies to patient interaction.

An introduction to the electrical conduction system of the heart, a review of the cardiac cycle (waves, baseline, segments, and intervals) as it relates to ECGs, including the use of the ECG machine as a diagnostic tool. Cardiac arrhythmias and the clinical indication of each type will be covered. The student will perform PFTs using the spirometer as a diagnostic tool and will use the nebulizer as a therapeutic tool.

An introduction to the structure and function of the kidney, ureters and bladder as it relates to urine production. Types of urine collection, proper care and handling of urine specimens utilizing universal precautions, chemical and physical analysis along with patient teaching are elements of this course.

Fundamental principles of microbial control with emphasis on the mechanisms of disease. Familiarization with various techniques and procedures used to prohibit and maintain medical and surgical asepsis. Medical office surgical procedures, wound care and bandaging are included.

An introduction to administering, prescribing, and dispensing medication, along with the common routes of administration. A basic introduction to pharmacology is part of this course which covers drug nomenclature, classification, and measurement as well as drug actions and interactions. Use of the PDR is covered. An overview of the guidelines for preparation and administrating oral and topical medication is included. Parenteral drug administration introduces the student to the parts of a needle and syringe and needle safety while practicing intradermal, subcutaneous, and intramuscular injections. Accurate calculation of drug dosages is included.

The proper application of dressings and bandages are basics of this course. Appropriate handling of medical emergencies is emphasized. In addition, students will learn adult/child and infant cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR)/automatic external defibrillator (AED).

Includes the three methods of venipuncture, the general guidelines of patient preparation and positioning, application of tourniquets, site selection, and alternative sites. This course requires student participation in invasive procedures using strict adherence to Standard Precautions. The student will be able to demonstrate a variety of invasive blood‐drawing procedures and hematology tests using equipment such as centrifuges, needles, hematocrit tubes, glucose & hemoglobin meters, various sizes and types of vacuum tubes, multi‐sample needles, needle holders, safety needles and holders, and sharps containers. The student will perform finger punctures for glucose and hemoglobin tests. The student will perform blood tests and understand their diagnostic value, including red and white blood count tests and significance of, learn that types of white blood cells, and normal adult test results. The student will learn patient teaching regarding anemia.

Presentation of the keyboard and touch typing techniques. Practice for speed and accuracy.

This course provides fundamental principles of the stages of infection, microorganisms and disease, and the proper and safe handling of microbial specimens. Familiarization with various laboratory departments laboratory safety and working as a liaison with the medical lab. OSHA and CLIA regulations and guidelines are emphasized.

Hands‐on experience to learn basic operations and functions of word processing systems.

Practical application of fundamental mathematical concepts are applied to the medical office, including preparation of payroll, check writing, inventory, and reading number lines and scales.

Fundamental math concepts are applied to accounts receivable, including determining fees and charges. Principles and procedures of electronic billing are introduced to include electronic account posting of charges and payments and creation of balance reports. Collection procedures are introduced. Students will also gain an understanding of financial literacy.

An introduction to insurance coding procedures as well as practical application of the various coding manuals for extracting information to determine appropriate diagnostic and procedural codes for filing insurance claims.

A practical application of insurance billing procedures, including completion of insurance claim forms, tracking claims, and extracting information from medical records are included. Basic insurance terminology to include the total patient encounter and revenue cycle and various insurance plans including Medicare, Medicaid, Blue Cross/Blue Shield, HMOs and private insurance claims submissions are discussed.

Practical application of electronic medical records for insurance billing and medical office management techniques are included in this course. Students will gain an understanding of the clinical application of the electronic health record to include the total patient encounter and revenue cycle. Students will also study cultural and ethnic sensitivity as it applies to patient interaction.

This course introduces students to the administrative routines of a medical office. Records management systems, appointment scheduling, receptionist duties, telephone techniques, managed practice routines and procedures along with an introduction to the electronic medical record and electronic charting are all part of this course. Students will also study cultural and ethnic sensitivity as it applies to patient interaction.

A comprehensive course to help students develop confidence and independent job‐seeking skills. Includes preparation of resume and cover letter, interviewing techniques, job search and follow‐up, and discussion of employer‐employee relations. Covers the responsibilities of health care providers and the need for effective communication in a medical office. Cultural and ethnic sensitivity issues are also addressed.

A discussion of procedures involving the eye and ear, physical agents that promote tissue healing, obstetrics, and pediatrics. Topics covered include the structure of the eye and ear, irrigations and instillations, visual and hearing acuity, in addition to application of heat and cold, therapeutic ultrasound, measurement of infant head/chest circumference, pediatric vital signs and infant urine specimen collection.

The externship is an extension of classroom training. As with other program coursework, students do not receive compensation by Ross or the site during Externship. During the Externship, students will spend 168 hours off‐site at a clinical facility where they will receive hands‐on experience in a doctor's office, clinic or other medical setting.