Out of the 25 endorsement programs offered, in the Health Care Therapeutic program, students can become a Certified Clinical Medical Assistant. Seniors Elyse Martin and Sethnika Hancock have both achieved their certification after committing to the program for four years.
Within the program’s four years, students must take course-specific classes within their chosen endorsement to become a CCMA.
“Students must take the prerequisite classes Principles of Health Science and Principles of Therapeutic Healthcare,” health science teacher Tara Parsons said. “During their senior year, they get to learn CCMA skills such as taking vital signs, performing EKGs, medication administration, injections, and phlebotomy. Once they have shown competency in all areas, they can take the national certification test.”
Students have different experiences along the way to becoming a CCMA as there is plenty of work to commit to. Martin said the process required learning different skills to fulfill any duty or obstacle you may face in the medical field.
“The process was overall not very challenging,” Hancock said. “We met during our pathophysiology class and checked off all the skills in preparation for the test. We had a really great role model to learn after Mrs. Parsons really pushed us to do our best.”
Students go into the medical field for varied reasons. According to Hancock she always wanted to work in the medical field and when she found out there was a program, the situation was perfect.
“I challenged myself to become a CCMA so I would be able to experience more of the medical field while helping people,” Martin said. “I’m taking these first few steps that way I can eventually get into the career I desire. I have been wanting to be a doctor for as long as I can remember. Now, I am fulfilling that dream.”
As students come out of high school, there are many job opportunities. According to Parsons, students can go to work in the healthcare field. Medical assistants are needed in many different areas including doctor’s offices, hospitals, and urgent care. Some students will use this certification as a steppingstone to nursing school.
“With this certification I plan to work in an emergency room or hospital,” Martin said. “In the future, it is my plan to be an Obstetrician. I want to help all the women and families I can as they get ready to have their babies. Life is a miracle. I am happy that I will be able to take part in it. This is what God has called me to do.”
Motivation, studying habits, and confidence can help students be successful in becoming CCMAs. Martin said if you have a passion, never give up on it.
“The advice I would give to the future CMMA’s is to stay committed,” Hancock said. “Work hard and don’t stress yourself out.”
