Pima Medical Institute’s Medical Assistant Certificate Program in San Antonio is a 9-month hybrid program designed to provide students with the skills and training needed to succeed in healthcare settings. Combining hands-on training, flexible online options, and clinical externships, this program equips students for entry-level roles in medical offices and clinics.
Program Overview
This program focuses on building the skills needed to work effectively as a medical assistant. Students learn a combination of administrative and clinical tasks, such as managing medical records, performing injections, drawing blood, taking vital signs, and preparing patients for exams. The curriculum is designed to address both the technical and interpersonal aspects of patient care, making it a well-rounded choice for those entering the field.
Courses include topics like anatomy and physiology, medical office management, medical law and ethics, pharmacology, and surgical procedures. Students also gain proficiency in phlebotomy, EKGs, and laboratory testing. The program’s hybrid format allows students to complete part of their coursework online while still receiving hands-on training in modern labs.
Clinical Externships
A major highlight of the program is the 200-hour externship, where students work in real healthcare environments under the supervision of experienced professionals. This provides invaluable practical experience, mentorship, and networking opportunities. Many externships lead to job placement offers, helping students transition directly into the workforce upon graduation.
Program Format and Schedule
This program is offered in a hybrid format, which combines online learning with in-person labs and clinical training. Morning and evening classes are available, giving students the flexibility to balance their studies with other responsibilities. The inclusion of online coursework allows students to progress at their own pace while still gaining hands-on experience in person.
Cost and Financial Aid
The total estimated cost of the program is $17,774, which includes $16,480 in tuition and $1,294 for fees and miscellaneous costs. Financial aid is available for those who qualify, including loans, grants, and scholarships. Pima’s admissions and financial aid teams are available to assist students in navigating their funding options.
Facilities and Location
Located at 6550 First Park Ten Blvd, San Antonio, TX, the campus is strategically situated in the Northwest Medical Center District. This area is home to prominent facilities like the South Texas Medical Center and the San Antonio Military Medical Center, providing students with access to top-tier healthcare institutions for externships and networking.
The San Antonio campus spans 66,000 square feet and includes state-of-the-art labs, classrooms, and computer facilities. These resources are dedicated to creating a supportive and engaging learning environment.
Prerequisites
To enroll in the Medical Assistant Certificate Program, students must meet the following requirements:
- Government-issued photo ID
- Proof of high school completion or GED
- Be at least 18 years old
- Meet the program’s admissions standards
Pima also recommends that applicants have strong interpersonal skills and a commitment to patient care, as these are vital for success in the field.
Career Services and Advancement Opportunities
Pima Medical Institute provides ongoing support through its Career Services team, which assists students with job placement, resume building, and interview preparation. Graduates of the program also have the option to continue their education through Pima’s online associate and bachelor’s degree programs in Health Care Administration. These programs are designed for working professionals looking to advance their careers.
Accreditation and Recognition
The program is accredited by the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES), ensuring that it meets high standards of quality in medical education. This accreditation assures prospective students and employers of the program’s credibility and the value of its training.
Who Should Consider This School?
This program is ideal for individuals seeking a flexible, hybrid learning option in medical assisting. It’s particularly well-suited for students who want to gain practical, hands-on training while maintaining the ability to balance other commitments. With its externship opportunities and location near major medical facilities, Pima is a strong choice.
This program offers more advanced training than many other options in the San Antonio area, but it does come with a higher total cost. It’s a strong choice for individuals targeting a specific role that requires this level of preparation. However, for those primarily seeking entry-level clinical medical assistant positions without immediate plans for career advancement, more affordable programs may be a better fit.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Cost | $17,774 |
| Duration | 9 months |
| Class Schedules | Morning and evening options; hybrid format |
| Online Classes? | Yes |
| Requirements | – Government-issued photo ID – Proof of high school completion or GED – Be at least 18 years old |
| Address | 6550 First Park Ten Blvd, San Antonio, TX 78213 |
| Phone | 1-800-477-7462 |
| Website | https://pmi.edu |
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