Goodwill San Antonio’s Medical Assistant Program is a grant-funded 31-week training course to help individuals gain the skills needed for entry-level positions in the healthcare field. With flexible schedules and job placement assistance, the program is designed to support students balancing education with personal commitments.
Program Overview
The Medical Assistant Program consists of 740 total hours, including 160 hours of externship at healthcare facilities. Classes run Monday through Thursday from 8:30 AM to 2:30 PM, providing a manageable schedule for students. The program covers a broad range of skills, from administrative tasks to clinical procedures, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for various healthcare settings.
Key topics include anatomy and physiology, medical law and ethics, pharmacology, injections, EKG, urinalysis, and microbiology. Upon completion, students earn certifications in CPR and First Aid and a Certificate of Completion. Graduates are also eligible to take the Registered Medical Assistant national certification exam, enhancing their employability in the medical field.
Job Placement Assistance
Goodwill San Antonio provides extensive job placement assistance to help graduates secure positions in healthcare. The program focuses on equipping students with the skills and credentials needed to support medical staff and provide patient care, aligning with the increasing demand for medical assistants. Graduates can pursue roles in clinics, hospitals, and other healthcare facilities.
Cost and Accessibility
One of the program’s standout features is that it’s offered completely free of charge. Goodwill San Antonio actively works to eliminate financial barriers by securing grants and funding to underwrite tuition costs for all students. Additionally, the academy provides support for challenges like transportation, childcare, and other life circumstances, ensuring students can focus on their education.
Prerequisites
- Be 18 years or older
- Provide a valid Texas ID or driver’s license
- Submit a Social Security Card
- Show proof of high school diploma or GED
- Pass a TB test and provide proof of a meningitis vaccination
Additional requirements may include criminal background checks or drug screenings, depending on the externship site.
Flexible Training and Externships
The program includes hands-on clinical training at local healthcare facilities. Students complete externships during daytime, evening, or weekend hours, depending on their availability and the operational hours of their assigned sites. This flexibility allows students to gain practical experience without disrupting other commitments.
Career Pathways and Potential Earnings
Graduates of the program can pursue careers as medical assistants, with an average entry-level salary of $31,000 annually in Texas. With additional training, medical assistants can advance to roles such as Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) or Registered Nurse (RN), significantly increasing their earning potential to approximately $72,000 annually.
Support and Community Impact
Goodwill San Antonio is committed to removing barriers to education and employment. The organization offers resources to assist with tuition, transportation, and other challenges students may face. The rolling enrollment schedule ensures that students can join the program at any time, making education accessible to underserved communities.
Who Should Consider This School?
This program is ideal for individuals looking to enter the healthcare field without the financial burden of tuition. It’s particularly suited for those who need flexible scheduling and additional support to balance education with personal responsibilities. With free tuition, job placement assistance, and a practical curriculum, Goodwill’s Medical Assistant Program is an excellent choice for anyone seeking a fresh start in a growing industry.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Cost | Free |
| Duration | 31 weeks |
| Class Schedules | Monday – Thursday, 8:30 AM – 2:30 PM |
| Online Classes? | No |
| Requirements | – Be 18 years or older – Valid Texas ID or driver’s license – Social Security card – High school diploma or GED – TB test – Meningitis vaccination |
| Address | 406 W. Commerce, San Antonio, TX 78207 |
| Phone | 210-924-8581 |
| [email protected] | |
| Website | https://www.goodwillsa.org/education-training/good-careers-academy |
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