The Lamson Institute Medical Assistant Program provides a 36-week training path designed to prepare students for entry-level positions in the medical field. Offering a diploma program that totals 720 instructional clock hours, it combines classroom learning, hands-on laboratory practice, and a required externship. Graduates are trained in both clinical and administrative tasks, including patient care, medical record management, and billing procedures.
Students will gain the skills needed to perform tasks such as administering medications, collecting specimens for lab tests, and assisting physicians during exams. They’ll also be equipped to handle front-office responsibilities like appointment scheduling, insurance processing, and bookkeeping. Graduates may sit for industry-recognized certifications, including the Certified Clinical & Administrative Assistant (MA1) exam, which is highly valued by employers.
Curriculum Structure
The program is divided into seven instructional modules, each focusing on specific areas of medical assisting. These include pharmacology, medical office procedures, laboratory testing, and patient care techniques. Students also explore anatomy and physiology for various body systems, ensuring a well-rounded understanding of human biology.
An externship, consisting of 160 clock hours, follows the classroom modules, providing students with real-world experience in a healthcare setting. This hands-on opportunity allows participants to apply their skills under the supervision of professionals, bridging the gap between education and employment.
Learning Format
The program is available in traditional in-classroom and hybrid-online formats, offering flexibility for students with varying schedules. Classes are structured with 20 hours of lecture and lab each week. While the hybrid format includes some online components, Lamson is currently not enrolling new students in the hybrid option.
The externship, mandatory for graduation, requires students to commit to a full-time schedule, often 40 hours per week. Externship sites are assigned by the school, and students are expected to adhere strictly to attendance and professional standards during this phase.
Certification Opportunities
Graduates are prepared to pursue certifications that enhance their employability. These include:
- Certified Clinical & Administrative Assistant (MA1)
- Certified Phlebotomy Technician (PH1)
- Certified EKG Technician (EKG1)
While certification is not required to graduate, it significantly improves job prospects. Lamson covers the cost of the first attempt for the MA1 exam.
Prerequisites
- Students must complete all seven modules before starting the externship.
- Externship sites may require additional background checks, drug tests, immunizations, and physical exams.
Support Services
Lamson offers a variety of support services to ensure student success:
- Tutoring: Individualized assistance is available for challenging subjects.
- Career Services: Job placement assistance helps graduates secure employment after completing the program.
- Accommodations: Special support is available for students with disabilities.
Tuition and Financial Aid
The program follows a guaranteed tuition pricing model, ensuring students pay the same rate throughout their enrollment. Payment plans are available, and students may also qualify for federal financial aid, grants, or company-sponsored tuition reimbursement.
Who Should Consider This School?
Lamson Institute is ideal for individuals seeking a hands-on, practical education in medical assisting. It suits those ready to commit to a structured, accelerated program and willing to complete an externship to gain real-world experience. With a supportive learning environment and strong emphasis on certification preparation, Lamson is well-suited for students who value both academic guidance and career-focused training.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Cost | Not specified |
| Duration | 36 weeks |
| Class Schedules | 20 hours per week of lecture and lab |
| Online Classes? | Available as a hybrid-online option, but currently not enrolling new students for this format |
| Requirements | Completion of seven modules before starting the externship; additional externship site requirements may apply |
| Address | 5819 NW Loop 410, Suite 160, San Antonio, TX 78238 |
| Phone | 210-465-1794 |
| Website | https://lamson.edu/programs/medical-assistant/ |
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