Loyola Marymount University

Medical Assistant Program

Program Format and Structure

The LMU Certified Clinical Medical Assistant program is designed entirely online, offering students a flexible, self-paced learning environment. This structure is ideal for working professionals or those with busy schedules, as it allows participants to manage their study hours without adhering to a rigid class schedule. The program covers approximately 160 course hours, making it possible to complete within a few months or extended up to a year, depending on the student’s availability and pace.

Curriculum and Course Content

The CCMA program’s curriculum provides a comprehensive foundation in both administrative and clinical responsibilities required of medical assistants. Students gain proficiency in:

• Medical Terminology and Body Systems: Key medical terms and anatomy are covered, helping students understand the language used in clinical settings.
• Patient Care and Office Procedures: From patient scheduling to maintaining medical records, students learn essential office procedures that ensure smooth operations within a healthcare facility.
• Clinical Skills: Topics include infection control, administering injections, taking vital signs, EKGs, and preparing for examinations. The curriculum ensures students are capable of performing essential clinical duties in a variety of healthcare settings.
• Workplace Readiness: Ethical behavior, HIPAA regulations, therapeutic communication, and professionalism are emphasized, preparing students for real-world interactions with patients and colleagues.

Certification and Exam Preparation

A standout feature of the program is its preparation for the NHA’s Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) exam. The course includes a voucher for the CCMA exam, allowing students to take the certification exam without additional cost. Certification can be highly beneficial, as employers often prefer certified medical assistants who have demonstrated proficiency in standardized skills. The certification exam is available online, further supporting the program’s flexible and accessible nature.

Admissions Requirements and Cost

The CCMA program at LMU is accessible to a broad range of students, as it requires no prior experience or prerequisites. This makes it an attractive choice for recent high school graduates, career changers, or those with an interest in healthcare. The program cost is $2,295, which is competitive compared to similar medical assistant programs. Flexible payment plans are available, making it financially accessible to more students.

Instructors and Educational Experience

LMU’s CCMA program features a team of highly qualified instructors, each bringing years of experience in the healthcare industry. Instructors include:

• Nancy Smith: With over 30 years in medical assistance and coding, she has a deep understanding of clinical practice and administrative roles.
• Carline Dalgleish: A seasoned health information manager, Carline’s background in medical office administration ensures students receive up-to-date and relevant training.
• Sharon L. Blackford: A Registered Medical Assistant and former Clinical Specialist in the U.S. Army, Sharon brings practical and leadership insights into the curriculum.
• Stacey O’Brien: A risk adjustment coder and auditor, Stacey’s expertise in medical coding is invaluable for students learning about healthcare billing and reimbursement processes.

Financial Aid and Payment Options

LMU provides flexible payment options to accommodate varying financial situations. While the program does not offer traditional scholarships, the available installment plans make it easier for students to manage tuition payments over time. This flexibility is especially useful for students balancing other financial responsibilities.

Clinical Experience and Job Placement

While the program is conducted entirely online, students are offered an optional clinical experience to gain hands-on practice in a healthcare setting. This experience can be beneficial for those seeking to reinforce their online learning with real-world skills. Although job placement services are not included, the practical skills and certification provided through LMU’s CCMA program make graduates competitive candidates in the healthcare job market.

Program Information	Details
Cost	$2,295
Program Duration	Self-paced, estimated at 160 course hours
Class Schedules	Fully online, self-paced
Prerequisites	None
Address	1 LMU Drive, Los Angeles, California 90045
Phone	(310) 338-2700
Email	[email protected]
Website	LMU Medical Assistant Program
Job Placement	No
Social Media	Facebook, Twitter, Instagram