Health offices are increasingly complex, driven by technology and requiring strong administrators at the helm. As a student in this program, you will learn medical terminology and have a general understanding of anatomy and physiology. You will understand procedures required to operate a healthcare office and will be able to transcribe a wide range of health-related data. You will understand the latest hospital information systems and know how to use them. You will learn from professionals who are current in their field and will have the opportunity to enhance your resumé with real-life work experience.

This compressed program is delivered in four consecutive semesters, which means you are ready to graduate in only 16 months. Classes in this program are offered on three consecutive days each week.

The Office Administration – Health Services program is available in both a two-year format and a compressed (four consecutive semesters) option.

Please note: Students who choose the compressed, fast-track option will not have a semester off/summer break.

This program is designed to develop the skills required to perform administrative support in a wide variety of health care environments. You will gain a practical understanding and knowledge on topics including:

• Basic anatomy and physiology
• Confidentiality and privacy
• Medical billing
• Health care ethics
• Health care office and hospital procedures
• Medical terminology and transcription
• Electronic medical record software
• Patient management

With the health care field constantly changing and computers bringing new concepts and approaches to office procedures, you will receive training in computerized medical records systems, computerized Ontario Health Insurance Plan billing systems, and other office equipment technology applications. This program will help you become a skilled and specialized professional that is comfortable with the latest technology and able to compete effectively in the workplace.

Please note: You will be required to achieve a keyboarding speed of 45 net words per minute to graduate.

Upon successful completion of the first two semesters for the compressed, fast-track option you may elect to finish your studies and graduate with a one year Ontario college certificate in Office Administration. Please make arrangements through Strategic Enrolment Services. Graduates with an average of 75 per cent or higher may use that qualification toward their Canadian Medical Secretary designation with the Ontario Medical Secretaries Association.

Career Options

WHAT YOU COULD BE:

• Health/Medical Assistant
• Health Care Administrator
• Health Care Stenographer
• Health Care Transcriptionist
• Health Records Clerk
• Patient Coordinator
• Unit Clerk

WHERE YOU COULD WORK:

• Community clinics
• Educational or government institutions
• General, health and wellness, alternative medicine or radiology clinics
• Health care clinics
• Health care laboratories
• Health care offices
• Hospitals
• Insurance companies
• Offices of physicians, surgeons, optometrists, chiropractors or other health practitioners
• Pharmaceutical manufacturers and research facilities
• Residential care facilities