The Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) program at LaGuardia Community College prepares students for careers in healthcare as medical assistants. Students gain hands-on experience in vital tasks such as phlebotomy, electrocardiography (EKG), and patient preparation. The program offers flexibility, with courses taken individually or as part of a series. Graduates are eligible to sit for national certifications, including the CCMA, EKG Technician, and Phlebotomy Technician exams, with a strong 98% pass rate in recent years.
Curriculum and Courses
Core Courses
- American Heart Association (AHA) CPR for Healthcare Providers: Covers CPR techniques, defibrillator use, and first aid for medical emergencies. Certification is required unless exempt.
- EKG Technician: Students learn to perform and interpret EKGs, prep patients, and understand heart anatomy and medications.
- Phlebotomy: Focuses on venous system anatomy and safe blood collection techniques. A minimum of 35 live blood draws is required.
- CCMA Procedures: Covers clinical skills such as triage, billing, coding, and patient history. Completion of either the EKG Technician or Phlebotomy course is required as a prerequisite.
- Medical Terminology: Teaches the language of healthcare for effective communication and documentation.
Flexible Options
- Courses can be taken individually or in any order, except CCMA Procedures, which requires prior coursework.
- Both day and evening schedules are available to accommodate various needs.
Prerequisites
Students must meet the following prerequisites:
- High school diploma or equivalent.
- Passing of an online reading exam.
- Exemptions for some courses are available with proof of prior coursework and competency exams.
Additional requirements include a current AHA BLS certification for exemption from the CPR course and a $99 fee for each competency exam.
Scholarships and Financial Aid
Partial scholarships are available for eligible students. Applicants must meet specific income and residency requirements and complete a separate application process for financial aid. Veterans may qualify for additional tuition assistance through LaGuardia’s Veterans Resource Center.
Bilingual Medical Assistant Training Program
LaGuardia also offers a specialized Bilingual Medical Assistant Training Program designed for English language learners. This yearlong program includes evening and weekend classes, a 100-hour internship, and certification preparation. Applicants must have intermediate English proficiency, standard computer skills, and meet specific income and residency criteria.
Certification Success
Graduates are eligible for national certification exams, such as the NHA Certified Clinical Medical Assistant, EKG Technician, and Phlebotomy Technician exams. The program boasts a 98% certification pass rate, reflecting its rigorous training and student success.
Why Apply?
This program is ideal for individuals seeking a well-rounded education in medical assisting with flexible scheduling and opportunities for national certification. With a 98% pass rate, access to scholarships, and options tailored for bilingual students, the CCMA program provides a strong foundation for a career in healthcare.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Program Type | Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA), Bilingual Medical Assistant Training Program |
| Cost | Varies by course; Scholarships available |
| Duration | 6 months; 1 year for the Bilingual Medical Assistant Program |
| Class Schedules | Day, Evening, Weekend |
| Requirements | High school diploma or equivalent, online reading exam |
| Online Classes? | No |
| Address | 31-10 Thomson Ave, Long Island City, NY 11101 |
| Phone | (718) 482-5768 |
| [email protected] | |
| Website | https://www.laguardia.edu/ce/career-skills-training/certified-clinical-medical-assistant-ccma/ |