Healthcare Administrative Specialist Certificate

Program Description

This 16-credit certificate is specifically designed to help students obtain an entry-level, rewarding position in a healthcare facility assisting patients in scheduling and preregistration. Students may be asked to research medical records and contact patients for follow-up appointments to ensure quality patient care and continuity in their healthcare maintenance plans. The certificate allows for students to complete an onsite practicum with a local healthcare facility.

Program Outcomes

By completing this program, students will achieve the following learning outcomes:

• Demonstrate understanding of how their role fits into and affects their department, other departments, and the organization;
• Demonstrate professional behavior and communication with patients and their families using compassion and empathy;
• Effectively work with a medical office team in relation to business functions;
• Demonstrate knowledge of electronic health records diagnosis searches;
• Demonstrate initiative by asking for or suggesting work to improve departmental goals, with minimal supervision;
• Maintain patient privacy by implementing HIPAA and HITECH rules and regulations; and
• Maintain privacy with healthcare facilities business information and represent the organization positively and professionally.

Career Opportunities

The medical community depends on educated staff to collect, interpret, analyze, protect and organize medical information so that it may be used for continuity of care, reimbursement, and quality improvement. Health administrative professionals work closely with providers, nurses, and other healthcare staff to contribute to quality patient care behind the scenes. Students who obtain this certificate will be qualified to work as a patient scheduler, pre-registration clerk or work in a patient care call center.