Health science careers are not only in high demand, but they offer a diverse range of careers for all types of people interested in helping others. Acquire foundational knowledge required to pursue a career in the healthcare industry, and the education, training, and credentials needed to attain them. Learn basic medical terminology, principles of anatomy and physiology, and legal and ethical responsibilities. Explore communication, teamwork, and leadership techniques – providing a solid basis for those wanting to advance through the health sciences.

Unit 1: Considering a Career in Healthcare? Finding the Right Role

A rewarding career is something every young person would like to look forward to. And while health science careers are secure, as even during economic downturns everyone needs health care, an even more exciting aspect to careers in this field are the various types of work available for all different kinds of people—introverts and extroverts, the mechanically-minded, caregivers, visual thinkers, good organizers, and especially those who work well under high stress. Not only can people with different personality types find a good career in this area, but also many entry-level positions are in demand and that can lead to higher-paying jobs with more experience and further training. Health science is truly an exciting and versatile industry to explore—so let’s start the journey and discover the many career options in healthcare!

What will you learn in this unit?

• Explain the concepts of the five career pathways in health science and provide examples of jobs in each category

• Compare the roles and contributions of different members of a healthcare team

• Research and assess the level of education and training required for specific healthcare jobs

• Develop a logical potential career path in health sciences

Unit 2: Healthcare Today: The Business of Caring

Unique! Uneven! High-cost! Hybrid! Best in the world! These and many other phrases have been used to describe the healthcare system in the United States. There is some truth to all those statements, and with the complexity of our healthcare system, you can say lots more about it. Let’s learn how the many parts of the US system of healthcare fit together to deliver care to a diverse population. From the facilities to the levels of care, we will move on to consider how health insurance and government agencies fit into this complicated system. We’ll also take a dip into the history of medicine, explore the present, and even look at some of the changes that we expect to see in the future of healthcare.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Compare the services of different healthcare settings

• Explain the government’s role in the US healthcare system

• Distinguish between the delivery models of HMOs, PPOs, EPOs, and POSs

• Analyze the economic factors affecting healthcare

• Trace the origins of current health treatments to older practices from many cultures

Unit 3: Anatomy, Physiology, and Medical Terminology in a Nutshell

It’s all Greek to me! That’s a phrase you won’t need to say after you dip your toe into the world of anatomy, physiology, and medical terminology. Learning about the body is fun, but it is also exciting to be able to describe things using the precise terms that are used in the healthcare professions. We’ll learn the basic structure and function of the human body, giving you a foundation for all that you will learn in the future. Then we’ll journey into terminology, breaking words down into their parts to make them easy to understand. Mandibular fossa, anyone? Just a part of the jaw. How about cardiopulmonary resuscitation? You may already know that one is CPR, the lifesaving technique to restart the heart and breathing. Soon, you’ll know how to decipher any medical term you come across, no matter how complicated it looks!

What will you learn in this unit?

• Trace the hierarchy of the structure of the human body, from atoms up to the whole organism

• Distinguish between anatomy and physiology, and discuss the relationship of these two fields of study

• Explain homeostasis and give three examples of this process

• Describe the position and direction of movement in anatomical terminology

• Decipher complex medical terms and build medical terms from prefixes, roots, and suffixes

Unit 4: Growth and Development Throughout the Life Span

The cycle of life—from birth to death—is a process of change and growth. Each stage brings challenges but also accomplishments and joy. Each of us is on this journey of life, and here, we will trace the needs of the tiniest humans up to their great-grandparents, and everyone in between. We will look at what each stage of life needs, physically, psychologically, and socially. We will also learn two of the most prominent theories about growth and psychological motivation: Erikson’s Stages of Psychosocial Development and Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs. Hop on for the ride and get an overview of the development of a human being through the lifespan.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Explain the physical, emotional, and social needs of babies, toddlers, teenagers, and adults

• Predict healthcare needs throughout the lifespan

• Debate the value of Erikson’s Stages of Psychosocial Development in modern times

• Apply Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs to understand what motivates human behavior

Unit 5: Health and Wellness

Medical professionals only work with people who are injured and unwell, right? Wrong! Health follows a continuum from optimal wellness to severe illness and everything in between. Today’s health professionals also focus on helping people develop healthy habits to increase their wellness. From eating well and exercising to minimizing exposure, to substances and diseases, allied health workers can improve the health of a whole population with small interventions. Concentrating on physical, emotional, and social health can be an enjoyable part of any health profession as it focuses on planning for health rather than waiting for illness to set in.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Integrate healthy eating and regular exercise into daily habits

• Assess and avoid the risks associated with using substances like alcohol, tobacco, and drugs

• Reflect on the emotional reactions to illness and the stages of grief

• Apply wellness principles to improve health and plan for wellness

• Link the effects of chronic stress to physical health and strategize interventions for stress management

Unit 6: Effective Communication in Healthcare

“What’s up, doc?” We all communicate every day, through the words we speak and write and also through the gestures and expressions of our bodies. In healthcare, communication is key to serving patients—as errors are costly. Medical error is the third leading cause of death in the United States, and up to 30 percent of all malpractice cases report communication error as a factor. So it pays to have every healthcare worker learn the techniques needed to communicate effectively and clearly. In addition, learning to communicate no matter the barriers—whether cultural or physical or as a result of how one communicates—means that important objective and subjective information can be collected and used to treat patients. Once the information is gathered, it will be time to report the data, in both written and oral formats. With that, we will have a great start in learning how to communicate in healthcare settings.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Deconstruct communication using the sender-receiver model

• Experiment with active listening and using open-ended questions in personal and school life

• Articulate barriers to communication in healthcare settings, including cultural factors

• Adapt your body language to build trust in a professional setting

• Categorize objective and subjective data and report events in the order of occurrence

Unit 7: Health and the Law

What would you do if a patient refused treatment that would save their life? How would you handle it if your best friend asked you questions about a patient at your clinic? Just because someone is a patient does not mean they are passive—patients participate in their care and they have rights. Respecting patient rights and autonomy is an important part of the job. Get the inside scoop on informed consent and that weird beast of a law—HIPAA—that helps keep patient records confidential. Knowledge is power, so learn the laws that apply to the health professions and learn how to protect yourself from criminal or civil liability. Plus, find out what employment laws will keep you safe and happy on the job.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Advocate for your rights as a patient

• Explain the components of HIPAA to keep patient information safe

• Debate the legality of actions a healthcare worker might take

• Role-play situations with legal and ethical implications for health workers

• List workplace rights and responsibilities that apply to healthcare employees

Unit 8: Ethical Responsibilities

Do the right thing! That’s what we should all do all the time, but in healthcare, there are ethical guidelines that help us figure out what that ‘right thing’ is. Complex matters of life and death come up every day in healthcare settings, providing ethical dilemmas that require thought and consideration to sort out. Thankfully, each profession and each healthcare institution has a code of ethics to help workers find the most beneficial and least harmful course of action. Learning how to recognize and deal with ethical dilemmas, from the life-threatening to the daily small decisions, is something that all healthcare professionals can use. These ethical conundrums are some of what make the healthcare field so interesting and challenging, no matter what career you choose. Fasten your seatbelts and come along as we explore ethics in the practice of healthcare.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Apply ethical principles to healthcare decisions

• Compare and contrast the scope of practice and codes of ethics

• Debate the ethics of technological advances in healthcare

• Reflect on how empathy is related to ethical principles in healthcare

Making sure that you, your patients, and your colleagues stay safe, you’ll begin analyzing your responsibilities for ensuring patient and personal safety with special attention paid to emergency procedures. Examine infection control, first-aid, CPR, and measuring a patient’s vitals. Learn about numerical data, such as systems of measurement, medical math, and reading and interpreting charts. And examine effective teamwork and leadership characteristics while building your employment skills.

Unit 1: Health, Safety, Security

Every workplace has dangers, but the risks that occur in healthcare settings are part of the everyday jobs of every player on the healthcare team. From taking care of the safety of vulnerable patients to taking care of your health so you can continue to help people, there are many things to learn about applying safety measures while working to improve the health of those in your community. Implementing standard precautions and following all hazard warnings, including reading SDSs for the chemicals you use, will ensure safer conduct. When there is an emergency, you not only need to respond to protect yourself but to operate as part of the response to any threat. Finally, we look at how to reduce medical errors in healthcare settings, creating a culture of safety on the job.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Identify and manage safety hazards in a healthcare setting

• Implement proper body mechanics while moving patients

• Explain how different government agencies contribute to safety in healthcare

• Prepare for and respond to emergencies

• Analyze a problem using root cause analysis

Unit 2: Infection Control

How do we get sick? Tracing the chain of infection, we will learn how pathogens can invade and cause illness. We will learn how the body defends itself and the steps that each person can take to help stop the spread of infection. Something as simple as handwashing is the strongest weapon against pathogens, helping ordinary people and healthcare workers to keep germs at bay. But healthcare workers have a special duty to fight the spread of disease, being in the center of infection control—and with the power to fight the spread of disease, both to themselves and to the public at large.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Summarize the chain of infection

• Compare levels of cleaning in a healthcare setting

• Recommend when and how to cleanse hands in a healthcare setting

• Differentiate between standard precautions and transmission-based precautions

• Link infection control practices to the fight against drug-resistant infections

Unit 3: Bloodborne Pathogens

Jobs in healthcare are on the front lines of the fight against the spread of pathogens, and none more important than the serious bloodborne diseases caused by HIV, Hepatitis B, and Hepatitis C. We will learn the proper techniques for putting on and taking off PPE to stay safe from bloodborne and other pathogens. Each step done properly can stop a deadly pathogen in its tracks. In addition, we will dig into what community members can do to prevent exposure or access resources if they are exposed to a bloodborne disease.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Assess the risks posed by the most common bloodborne pathogens in the United States

• Describe how bloodborne pathogens can spread in healthcare settings

• Reconstruct the steps for properly putting on PPE

• Explain the reasons for safely disposing of biohazardous waste

• Summarize the most risky behaviors for transmission of bloodborne diseases, both in a healthcare setting and in the community

Unit 4: Signs of Life: Vital Signs and CPR

The signs of life, or what we call vital signs, are the ways we can sense the mysterious quality we call “life” in a body. The right temperature, the beating of the heart, the in and out of respiration, and the pressure with which blood pumps throughout our bodies are the ways we can tell that we are alive. Anytime any one of the vital signs deviates from the normal range, it can signal a serious health problem, so healthcare workers check on these signs of life very frequently, looking for any early sign of an ailment that they can help. Knowing how to properly check these measurements and record them is an integral part of most healthcare jobs. In an emergency, when these signs are not present or are wavering, learning CPR and first aid will mean that you can help keep these vital signs going, keeping a person alive until advanced medical care can take over.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Measure and assess body temperature readings, integrating knowledge about thermoregulation

• Trace the changes in breathing and pulse rates throughout the lifespan

• Appraise the relationship between the oxygen saturation of the blood and other vital signs

• Summarize the difference between systolic and diastolic blood pressure readings

• Describe the effects that CPR can have on a patient in cardiac arrest

Unit 5: Data, Measurement, and Math

It’s as easy as 1, 2, 3 to apply math skills to healthcare calculations that are used every day. Fractions, decimals, and converting measurements are numerical tools that healthcare workers use all the time. Measuring time, temperature, height, weight, distance, angle, and many other parameters provide valuable data for treating patients or analyzing public health problems. Once that important data is collected, turning it into a visually interesting graph, table, diagram, or chart can help healthcare professionals and their patients understand this information quickly and easily.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Distinguish between ratios and percentages

• Name the units of measurement in imperial and metric systems

• Convert between imperial and metric measurements

• Calculate body mass index

• Interpret charts, diagrams, graphs, and tables to use numeric information

Unit 6: Technology in Healthcare

Information technology as well as simple and advanced technologies used in diagnosing and treating patients plays a crucial role in medicine today. From stethoscopes to CT scanners, all this tech requires skilled, observant workers to correctly operate and maintain. But some of the biggest changes that tech brings to healthcare are in the electronic health records (EHRs) that store all types of patient information so medical professionals can help patients to optimize their health. Of course, along with the ease of using EHRs comes the danger of compromising patient privacy—either by posting about your work on social media (a big no-no!) or simply sending a record to the wrong person. Learning how to appropriately handle medical records is therefore of the utmost importance – let’s dive in!

What will you learn in this unit?

• Describe the different types of technology used to diagnose, treat, and track patient health

• Troubleshoot simple computer problems

• Summarize the different parts of an electronic health record (EHR)

• Evaluate the reliability of health resources on the web

• Explain steps to keep protected health information (PHI) safe as an allied health professional

Unit 7: Teamwork and Leadership

Healthcare is a team sport—each person on the team has a job, and if they all work together effectively, the goal of high-quality patient care can be met. Everyone wins when the team pulls together. But just what can each person do to be a great team member? Read on for some great teamwork tips, as well as guidance on how to become a leader. Leadership can be practiced whether you are a member of a team or leading a team. When the team comes into conflict, there are some basic strategies to manage and resolve issues so everyone can continue to work towards the goal of health for the community.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Analyze the roles of different healthcare team members

• List and explain the characteristics of good teams

• Lead or participate effectively in meetings

• Recognize resistance to change in patients and colleagues

• Apply conflict resolution techniques to disagreements

Unit 8: Employability in Healthcare

The healthcare industry has the most jobs of any sector of the US economy. Students who can demonstrate both competent skills and strong “soft” skills will likely become valuable team members. Enthusiasm, integrity, and a strong work ethic will impress potential employers, so improving these qualities in oneself is an important part of preparing for a career. Read on for some tips regarding how to find and successfully apply for job opportunities in the field.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Present a professional image through behavior, appearance, and demeanor

• Demonstrate work-ready characteristics and habits such as punctuality, dependability, discretion, and flexibility

• Analyze your career goals and assess their feasibility

• Evaluate and interpret employment opportunities in healthcare

• Create elements of a career portfolio

Whether you plan on pursuing a career in health sciences or simply looking to gain an understanding of how the human body works, you’ll first need to understand the relationship between anatomy and physiology. Learn how to read your body’s story by understanding cell structure and their processes, and discover the functions and purposes of the skeletal, muscular, nervous, and cardiovascular systems, as well as diseases that affect those systems.

Unit 1: Human Body Organization

While Anatomy and Physiology courses are required for students beginning their journeys to a career in health science, they can also be of great value to others who simply want to improve their health and well-being. Just as it’s easier to navigate a foreign country if you understand the language spoken, it’s easier to navigate the human body if you understand the terminology related to the forms and functions of this fascinating area of study. If you’re lost in Italy, hopefully, you have a translation app. If you’re lost and trying to figure out how one symptom might be a clue to a larger problem in a patient, this material will help you navigate your way through body systems.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Define and discuss the terms anatomy and physiology and their relationship to one another

• Describe the levels of organization of the human body from simple to complex

• Define and describe the anatomical positions and directional terms used in human anatomy

• Locate and describe the main regions, sections, and cavities of the body

Unit 2: Chemistry of the Body

Remember how we talked about one cell being smaller than a period? It’s mind-blowing to think that something so small has so much control over all of our body systems. There are over 200 different types of cells in the body that make up a total of 100 TRILLION cells in one person. Think about it for a minute: that number is the number 1 followed by 14 zeroes!

Let’s take a look at how cells are designed to make sure the human body stays healthy and balanced. Understanding cell design and reproduction is key to understanding how each body system works and how they interact to sustain life.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Summarize the relationships among homeostasis, control systems, and feedback loops

• Explain the structure and function of typical cells

• Explain mitosis and meiosis: their similarities and differences

• Describe and discuss how damage to one type of cell and/or tissue may impact the function of other cells and tissues

Unit 3: The Skeletal System

Can you imagine what it would be like if you didn’t have any bones and were only made up of muscle and skin? You wouldn’t be able to walk very well, type on the keyboard, or, certainly, be able to dance! There are 206 bones in the adult human skeleton. When we are born, we have more than 250 bones in our bodies, and as we grow and develop, some of the smaller bones fuse to form stronger, longer, and less pliable bones. The skeleton is not only what determines the shape and size of an individual, but it allows us to walk upright and perform the activities of daily life.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Describe the structure and function of bones

• Identify the different types of bones

• Differentiate between the axial and appendicular skeleton

• Classify joints and their specific functions

• Summarize common diseases and disorders of the skeletal system

Unit 4: The Muscular System

Sit perfectly still while you look at your computer screen. You might think that none of your muscles are moving, but they are. The diaphragm, the sheet of muscle that rests under your lungs, is contracting and relaxing to facilitate your breathing when you’re at rest or in motion. Muscles also perform other functions that you may not have considered; not only does the muscular system move your limbs, it also interacts with other body systems to support vital movements around your body. Let’s see what muscles do for you.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Explain the structure and function of muscles and muscle tissue

• Describe the sliding filament theory

• Interpret the names of various muscles based on Latin terms

• Distinguish between a muscle strain and other muscle injuries

Unit 5: The Nervous System

Snap your fingers. Can you imagine that in the time it took you to snap, a nerve impulse could travel the length of a football field? Now, think about an amazingly fast relay race. Your nervous system is like a relay: the baton gets passed from one group of cells to the next to deliver a message with lightning speed. It’s not one individual who carries the baton the length of the football field; it’s multiple people passing the baton across the length of the impulse to make the movement or sensation happen. Once you examine all the individual parts of the nervous system and how they work together, you’ll appreciate how fascinating it is.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Outline the organization and functions of the central and peripheral nervous systems

• Locate and identify the major regions of the brain and describe their functions

• Analyze the basic structure and functions of the cranial nerves, spinal cord, and special sense organs

• Discuss common diseases and disorders of the neurological system

Unit 6: The Integumentary System

The integumentary system is one of the most unappreciated in the body. Most people might guess that the brain, heart, or lungs are the most important organs in the body, but the integumentary system plays a vital role in maintaining homeostasis and protecting all of these other important organs. Let’s learn what makes the integumentary system so important.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Analyze the structure and function of the integumentary systems

• Discuss potential alterations in skin integrity

• Demonstrate the knowledge and skill related to performing effective hand hygiene

• Identify and analyze common diseases and disorders of the integumentary system

Unit 7: Essential Knowledge About Blood

Have you ever accidentally cut yourself so badly that your blood started to pool? As horrifying as that experience can be, it’s also fascinating to consider exactly what that deep red liquid is. Blood is a tissue that is made up of millions and millions of cells and chemicals that are dissolved within it. Like other body systems, it has multiple intricate parts that work together to perform functions within its assigned body system and coordinate activities with other body systems. It’s the levels of the various components of blood, the path they take to circulate in the body, and their relationship with our heart and lungs that contribute to maintaining homeostasis.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Distinguish between the various types of blood vessels

• Demonstrate knowledge of the composition of blood

• Identify the different ABO compatibilities

• Describe various disorders and diseases of the blood and its components

Unit 8: The Cardiovascular System and The Heart

We’ve all seen images on television of someone dramatically grabbing their chest and dropping to the ground, presumably having a heart attack. These significant injuries are a result of problems within the heart that are similar to the flickering of electricity in a room or clogged pipes in a sink. As you move through this unit, you will learn about the power grid and the plumbing in the heart, what happens when they are in top condition, and what happens when there is a service disruption.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Describe the structure and function of the heart and circulatory pathways

• Compare and contrast systemic and pulmonary circulation

• Summarize the path for electrical conduction in the heart

• Discuss common diseases and disorders that affect the cardiovascular system

Learning the language is essential for careers in health science. Join word parts to form medical terms, associations within body systems, and better communicate with colleagues and patients. Build your proficiency and confidence with this course and prepare yourself for a career in health sciences.

Unit 1: Word Elements: Where It All Begins

Medical terminology is a language unique to a specialized field. To better understand medical terms, you need to first get to know the origin of words, how to dissect them, and how to build them. Part of this dissection and building process involves learning word parts and how to put those pieces together. In this unit, we will learn prefixes, suffixes, and combining forms. We will also learn about the origins of words that cannot be broken down using traditional methods. Additionally, we’ll explore how some of these terms are abbreviated and cases in which these abbreviations are not acceptable practice. So, let’s start putting the pieces of the puzzle together and learn more about this special language!

What will you learn in this unit?

• Describe the components making up a medical term and the process for defining a word using those components

• Explain uses for prefixes, suffixes, and combining forms

• Recognize commonly used prefixes, suffixes, and combining forms

• Identify common medical abbreviations as well as those on the Do Not Use List

• Describe the origin of an eponym and give examples of common eponyms

Unit 2: The Building Blocks of the Body

The body is an amazing structure made up of many cells, tissues, organs, and systems. We can break down the way the body is built from the tiniest structure up to entire body systems. Taken as a whole, we then learn about body movement and the organization of body structures. By studying the cavities, regions, and quadrants of body organization, we can locate organs and other body structures and, by using this organizational system, healthcare providers are better able to pinpoint conditions and accurately communicate with patients. Ready to become an expert in navigating and identifying these structures? Let’s get started!

What will you learn in this unit?

• Describe the building blocks of the body and how they are organized, from cell to system

• Define anatomic position and terms related to a change in that position

• Explain terms related to body movement and communicate body planes as related to anatomic position

• Explain the division of the body into cavities

• Describe the regions and quadrants of the abdomen and identify organs found in the different cavities, regions, and quadrants

Unit 3: Move It: Understanding Body Movement

With so many body parts, we need to be able to describe exactly how each part moves. Medical terms relating to movement allow us to do just that! By exploring the world of body movement, we find different types of movement and different types of joints that make this happen. As part of this world, we’ll learn abbreviations used commonly in medical documentation relating to these body parts and their movements. In addition, we’ll discover the many career possibilities related to the movement of body parts. Ready? Let’s get moving!

What will you learn in this unit?

• Define medical terms related to body movement

• Explain movements using medical terminology

• Describe types of joints found in the body

• Identify commonly used abbreviations related to movement

• Understand occupations related to body movements

Unit 4: Breathing Easy: The Respiratory System

Breathing is an essential part of health and body function. The organs of the respiratory system make up a complex tree-like structure that helps us breathe without even thinking about it. To be an effective healthcare provider we must be familiar with the medical terminology that refers to the diseases, conditions, treatments, and tests of this system. We also need to be able to write and translate abbreviations and terms when documenting about this system. Let’s take a deep breath and explore this airy world!

What will you learn in this unit?

• Identify and describe the functions of the organs in the respiratory system

• Recognize prefixes, suffixes, and combining forms related to the respiratory system

• Describe diseases and conditions of the respiratory system

• Explain common treatments and tests used when evaluating conditions of the respiratory system

• Write and translate abbreviations used in medical documentation for respiratory conditions

Unit 5: Going with the Flow: The Cardiovascular System

We feel our heartbeat all the time, but what’s the reason and what’s it really doing? We’ll now explore the cardiovascular system with its organs and find our answers! As we investigate the workings of this system, we’ll learn the medical terms and word parts that describe different areas. As with any part of the body, things can go wrong. Our journey will take us through some of the conditions and diseases of this system, along with tools, tests, and treatments used in this world. Let’s get our blood pumping!

What will you learn in this unit?

• Describe the organs of the cardiovascular system and their functions

• Recognize and use the prefixes, suffixes, and combining forms related to the cardiovascular system

• Identify common diseases and conditions of the cardiovascular system

• Explain tools, procedures, and tests used in diagnosing and treating the cardiovascular system

• Use and decode abbreviations commonly used when referring to the cardiovascular system

Unit 6: Keep Calm and Explore the Nervous System

With so many organs, tissues, and cells in the body, something must be in control! That’s where the nervous system comes into play. To be an effective healthcare team member, we need to learn the functions of the nervous system, the disorders associated with it, and ways to fix it. We also need to study the language, its word parts, and ways to abbreviate it. So, who’s in control here? Let’s find out on our journey through the nervous system!

What will you learn in this unit?

• Identify the organs of the nervous system and describe their functions

• Recognize and use prefixes, suffixes, and combining forms related to the nervous system

• Describe conditions, disorders, and diseases of the nervous system

• Explain tests, procedures, and treatments used for nervous system conditions

• Translate and use abbreviations in medical documentation related to the nervous system

Unit 7: Skin, It’s Got You Covered!

When you look at someone, what is the main thing you see? Skin is probably not your first answer, but if you think about it, that’s probably the best answer. That’s because skin is the body’s largest organ. There’s more to this world than meets the eye though. Let’s explore this complex world of tiny accessory organs and see just how much work this underrated system does.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Identify organs in the integumentary system and their functions

• Translate medical terms associated with the integumentary system using prefixes, suffixes, and combining forms

• Describe common diseases and conditions associated with the integumentary system

• Explain tests, procedures, and treatments used for conditions of the integumentary system

• Use abbreviations associated with the integumentary system

Unit 8: Hold Me Up: Musculoskeletal System

What allows us to stand? What protects our vital organs? How do we move? As we journey through the musculoskeletal system, we’ll find the answers to these questions and so much more. Our exploration will help us identify terms, conditions, tests, and treatments for this system. We’ll also work on our skills in decoding abbreviations for this system. Get ready to play detective and find out what’s holding us up!

What will you learn in this unit?

• Describe the organs of the musculoskeletal system and explain their functions

• Recognize prefixes, suffixes, and combining forms used in the musculoskeletal system

• Explain common conditions and diseases of the musculoskeletal system

• Identify common tests and treatments for conditions and diseases involving the musculoskeletal system

• Translate abbreviations and other medical documentation using terms related to the musculoskeletal system

From doctors and nurses to x-ray technicians and medical aides, the field of healthcare offers numerous roles that will allow you to make a difference in the lives of patients. In this course, you’ll learn all about the foundations of healthcare from how the industry works around the world, to the different professions that fall within the field. You’ll also learn medical terminology and calculations, the difference between diagnostic and therapeutic careers, and the legal and ethical considerations. Let’s start building the foundation of a healthcare career today!

Unit 1: A Trip through the Exciting World of Health Care

Global pandemics, variations in access to health care, political health issues, economic forces, noncommunicable diseases, and environmental changes all influence the world of health care as we know it today. To understand our present, we need to look at the history of this exciting world and the factors that influenced its development. As we’ll see, not all health care is created equal, and health care differs drastically from one area of the world to the next. As we explore the past, present, and future of health care, we’ll see why choosing a career in health science makes perfect sense!

What will you learn in this unit?

• Define healthcare and the components that influence healthcare systems

• Describe types of healthcare systems throughout the world

• Analyze the United States healthcare system and the agencies that oversee it

• Evaluate the global impact of disease and the effects of access to quality healthcare

• Identify the factors that make health care a good career choice

Unit 2: Adventures in Healthcare Careers

Do you like technology and working with equipment or do you prefer communicating and working hands-on with patients? Whatever your skills and preferences, the healthcare world has a career for you! As we take an adventure through healthcare careers, we’ll see some skills each one requires and take a glimpse at the types of functions performed daily. We’ll also explore the personal qualities required for these types of careers and workplace expectations for someone in these roles.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Describe diagnostic health science careers, including duties, skills, and qualifications

• Identify therapeutic health science careers, including duties, skills, and qualifications.

• Explain workplace expectations in a healthcare setting

• Differentiate between job settings in healthcare

• Analyze key components of different healthcare careers

Unit 3: Using a New Language

Have you ever heard someone explain something using technical terms and had no idea what they meant? Industries use everyday language to relay information, and unless you know how the terms apply in that setting, it’s impossible to understand their meaning. The healthcare world is no exception when it comes to language! Communication in health sciences requires understanding and properly using medical terminology and calculations that are part of everyday interactions. Using the new language effectively helps you function in this highly specific world as a valuable team member.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Examine how to decode medical terminology using prefixes, root words, and suffixes

• Differentiate between commonly used medical abbreviations and abbreviations that should not be used

• Describe body parts and movements using common medical terms

• Review common calculations used by healthcare professionals

Unit 4: Communicate Like a Pro

No matter what type of health science profession interests you, good communication skills are essential for success. From verbal to nonverbal techniques and personal to professional exchanges, the way we interact with the people around us forms the foundation for whatever we’re trying to accomplish. As we explore the various types of communication, we’ll investigate barriers to communication, cultural awareness, and ways to communicate with special populations. Before you know it, you’ll be ready to communicate like a pro!

What will you learn in this unit?

• Contrast various types of communication and the importance of active listening

• Describe the components of the communication process

• Analyze features of effective communication

• Identify potential barriers to communication and ways to overcome them

• Explain ways to effectively use technology as a communication tool in healthcare

Unit 5: Get Well, Stay Well

Healthcare professionals work to take care of health issues in patients, but they also provide patient education about preventive measures patients can use to avoid health issues. As we explore the concepts of health and well-being, we’ll look at methods people can use to identify aspects of wellness and improve their health and well-being. We’ll also discuss how healthcare workers need to remember and apply the concepts they’re teaching to patients in their own lives. As we’ll see, everyone needs to know how to get well and stay well!

What will you learn in this unit?

• Explain the differences in health and wellness and the importance of development milestones

• Describe the hierarchy of needs and its role in health and wellness

• Analyze dimensions of wellness and strategies used to fulfill them

• Identify complementary and alternative health practices and therapies

Unit 6: Encountering Substance Abuse

Substance abuse is a topic we frequently hear about in the news. Other than treating patients affected by substance abuse, this isn’t something we need to worry about, is it? Unfortunately, this question relays a common misconception about substance abuse. As healthcare professionals, although we do need to know how to provide care to patients affected by substance abuse, we also need to be aware of the risks of addiction ourselves. As we explore this topic, we’ll investigate how drug schedules help identify how addictive a particular drug is. We’ll also examine the anatomy and physiology of addiction, the effects of substance abuse, and treatment options. Let’s raise our awareness so we are better prepared to face this difficult topic.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Define substance abuse and describe how substances are classifiedAnalyze the physiology and cycle of substance use disorder

• Identify risk factors, warning signs, and the potential effects of substance abuse

• Explain treatment options for substance use disorder

Unit 7: Meet the Patient

Although each healthcare professional specializes in job-specific skills required to perform their role on the team, some skills are universal and must be mastered before interacting with patients. Think about a time you had an appointment at a clinic or with a nurse practitioner or doctor. What did the medical assistant, nursing assistant, or dental assistant do before, during, and after interacting with you? Even though these skills often go unseen or are so much a part of the process we take them for granted, they help providers assess the patient and promote a safe environment. Let’s get ready to meet the patient!

What will you learn in this unit?

• Describe the causes of infection and the role of hand hygiene in its prevention

• Identify standard and transmission-based precautions

• Analyze key factors that impact patient interactions

• Explain how to measure vital signs and the normal ranges for each measurement

Unit 8: Legal and Ethical Considerations

Healthcare professionals learn skills specific to their profession, but did you know they are legally obligated to stay within certain guidelines? What tells them what they can or can’t do? As we explore these questions, we’ll investigate guiding principles and learn about legal and ethical considerations faced by healthcare providers. In addition, we’ll look at the consequences of unacceptable behavior.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Explain ethics and ethical behavioral standards for healthcare professionals

• Describe legal aspects related to the duties of healthcare professionals

• Identify healthcare regulatory agencies

• Analyze the role of professional associations

You’ve built a solid foundation of knowledge of the healthcare field, and now it’s time to probe deeper into the healthcare profession. In this course, you’ll review key aspects of the broad category of safety as well as learn how to assess and treat patients for an array of injuries. You’ll learn how to identify emergencies, trauma, and complex care, and the basics of CPR and life support. Lastly, you’ll explore the importance of collaborating with other team members to manage and resolve conflicts. Let’s suit up to learn how you can positively impact patients in the field of healthcare.

Unit 1: Safety in the Workplace

We know healthcare professionals perform job-specific skills, communicate with patients, and exhibit compassion each day, but who is responsible for keeping patients safe? The answer may surprise you! Anyone working in a healthcare facility plays a role in keeping the environment safe for everyone: patients, workers, and visitors. As we explore what it takes to maintain a safe workplace, we’ll investigate the types of hazards in these environments and the actions we need to take to protect everyone.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Describe organizations that provide safety guidelines for healthcare institutions, along with examples of patient safety goals

• Identify ways to comply with environmental safety guidelines

• Explain types of hazardous materials and waste found within a healthcare facility

• Analyze ways to reduce the healthcare worker’s risk of injury in the workplace

Unit 2: Documentation

Healthcare providers perform many job-specific tasks as they care for patients. One often overlooked but very important task is documentation. In the healthcare world, it’s often said that if something isn’t documented, it didn’t happen. When dealing with patient welfare, it’s critical to track every move taken throughout the care process to know what was done along the way. As we explore this topic, we’ll look at various types of documentation and methods to ensure accuracy no matter what profession you’re in.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Differentiate between paper and electronic record systems and identify the importance of health information technology

• Describe security measures used to protect health information and how HIPAA influences this protection

• Identify the parts of a medical record

• Analyze other systems used when documenting health information

Unit 3: On the Job

Think about some of the job responsibilities of the allied health professionals we’ve learned about so far. Each profession has some skills unique to that field, while other skills overlap from one profession to another. As we begin to look at skills used in direct patient interaction, we’ll investigate those needed by all professionals, like patient admitting and discharge requirements, communicating effectively in various situations, and patient movement and positioning. After examining these types of skills, we’ll narrow our focus to more specific ones, like assisting patients with daily living tasks and assessing patients’ range of motion. Ready to get on the job? Let’s learn more about the skills you’ll need!

What will you learn in this unit?

• Define functions related to patient admission, transfer, and discharge

• Identify methods for moving patients for treatment or examination

• Analyze patient positions and proper use of support devices

• Describe skills related to assisting patients with activities of daily living

Unit 4: Collaboration in Health Care

Although most of the time we think about each healthcare professional as an individual performing functions independently, everyone in the medical world is part of a team. Think about how complex the human body is, with all of the systems working together to maintain everyday functions. Just like the various systems work together for a common goal, so do healthcare workers! No matter which healthcare profession you choose, being a valuable team member and knowing how to collaborate with other professionals puts you on the path to a successful career.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Describe the members that make up a team and the principles of collaboration

• Assess team dynamics, including team roles and the stages of team development

• Analyze effective conflict resolution techniques in healthcare settings

• Identify leadership skills of healthcare professionals

Unit 5: Responding First

From a scraped knee and a bee sting to foreign bodies and open wounds, healthcare workers need to learn all types of skills to care for patients outside and inside medical facilities. The steps they take to care for patients when injuries happen are all first aid. Although most of us know how to deal with minor issues like a scraped knee or bug bite, we may not know how to deal with other types of wounds. Healthcare professionals need to be prepared to not only respond to all types of injuries but also react when things don’t go as planned. As we explore what it takes to respond first, we’ll analyze the steps and the skills needed to care for patients in a variety of non-trauma situations.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Define the role of healthcare professionals in providing first aid

• Identify first aid skills used in treating bites, blisters, and bruises

• Explain first aid skills used in treating cuts, foreign bodies, and puncture wounds

• Describe the steps used when performing venipuncture

Unit 6: Recognizing and Reacting to Emergencies

Healthcare professionals of all specialties must be prepared to handle any type of emergency that arises inside and outside of a medical facility. To be ready to react, they need to understand and differentiate between what’s normal and what needs immediate attention. As we explore how to recognize an emergency, we’ll investigate how the body maintains its constant balance of biological and chemical processes. We’ll also examine the signs and symptoms to look for when that balance is disrupted. By recognizing these signs and symptoms, we’ll be ready to react with emergency treatments such as performing CPR, using an AED, and clearing airway obstructions.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Explain how the body works to maintain homeostasis

• Identify normal and abnormal signs and symptoms as they relate to an emergency

• Describe how to perform CPR and use an AED

• Define the AHA chain of survival and how to dislodge a foreign body obstruction

Unit 7: Trauma and Complex Care

Do you have what it takes to think quickly and make complex decisions related to emergency situations? How well do you adapt when a situation changes or when something doesn’t go as planned? During our exploration into trauma and complex care, we’ll see how the body changes with various conditions and investigate ways to care for patients in different situations. Additionally, we’ll discover the importance of assessing each emergent situation and adjusting decisions to reach the best possible outcome for the patient. As we’re about to learn, treating trauma isn’t just about the condition, it’s about problem-solving and adapting to the situation.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Define trauma and complex care along with the importance of critical thinking in these situations

• Explain how blood flow conditions cause changes in the body that result in the need for emergent care

• Describe the impact of exposure to heat or cold on the body

• Identify types of bone and joint injuries as well as the first steps in treating them

Unit 8: What’s Next?

The world of health sciences includes a wide variety of occupations, making it possible for people to choose a career path best suited to their interests. The skills and educational training required for each career provide a foundation for pursuing that dream job. As we explore what’s next, we’ll review written and oral communication skills as they apply to the job search, including preparing application documents and interviewing. We’ll also focus on how to find job opportunities and narrow down that search. To complete the process, we’ll investigate training opportunities and the importance of staying active in the profession. With so much knowledge about health sciences, we’re ready to explore what’s next!

What will you learn in this unit?

• Research educational requirements and certification and licensure by profession and location

• Create a resume and cover letter to prepare for employment opportunities

• Complete steps in obtaining employment including conducting a job search, preparing for an interview, and completing employment procedures

• Analyze the importance of professional organizations and potential areas of career advancement in the health sciences

Caring for a patient takes more than a medical degree: it takes a team! In this course, you will build your knowledge of medical terminology, medical office processes, the technology that keeps an office humming, and the laws that keep it operating ethically. You’ll also explore different office roles all while building the beginnings of a portfolio. Let’s march through the waiting room and throw open the doors to a career as a Medical Office Admin today.

Unit 1: Working in the Medical Office

You’ve likely been to a medical office to see your physician and you may even have spoken with the receptionist. But do you know how a medical office operates? What are its functions? Who are the people who work there? What are their roles and responsibilities in helping to run the office efficiently for patients, physicians, and other healthcare providers? You’re about to find out! Let’s step inside a medical office and get to know some of its employees and what they do. Who knows, after you get to know them, you might just be intrigued enough to look for a career path in the medical office!

What will you learn in this unit?

• Articulate the functions of the medical office

• Describe the positions and responsibilities of medical office employees

• Identify and describe the career paths available in the medical office setting

• Explain how the medical office fits into the big picture of health care in the United States

Unit 2: Communication and Professionalism

In any job, communication is extremely important. In healthcare facilities, communication is critical because it affects patients’ health, safety, and, at times, their very survival. Imagine what can happen if a medical assistant does not listen closely to crucial medical information provided by a patient or does not communicate the information to the physician. Medical office staff must not only communicate with patients but with each other and other healthcare workers, and they must do so effectively, for the care and safety of every patient.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Define communication and explain its importance in healthcare

• Describe what it means to communicate with professionalism

• Identify communication skills required for employees in the medical office

• Outline office procedures for verbal communication with patients

Unit 3: Medical Terminology: The Language of Health Care

Parlez vous français? Imagine going on a school trip to France. In addition to getting a passport and packing your bags, you might think about learning the basics of the French language so you can communicate with people while in France. Working in health care is similar to visiting a foreign country. Before working in the medical field, you must understand the language to communicate effectively with the patients, staff, and providers. We call this language medical terminology, and it’s easier to learn than most people think. Healthcare workers must have a working knowledge of medical terminology and be able to use the language in both verbal and written forms.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Describe the history of medical terminology

• Define the four parts of a medical term

• Demonstrate knowledge of common medical terms and abbreviations

• Summarize guidelines for spelling and pronunciation of medical terms

• Explain how medical terminology is used in written and verbal communications

Unit 4: Procedures in the Medical Office

Most jobs require employees to follow certain procedures. Why? Policies and procedures act as a roadmap for the organization. Patients have high expectations of their physician and the medical office. They expect the staff to be knowledgeable in their jobs and that they follow office policies and procedures consistently. Procedures outline expectations of employees when conducting daily tasks. Following procedures helps internal processes run more efficiently and procedures safeguard the office against legal action, ensuring compliance with law and regulations. Most importantly, the primary reason to know and understand policies and procedures is so that we provide quality patient care in a safe environment.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Provide examples of the importance of policies and procedures

• Summarize the procedures for opening and closing the medical office

• Describe procedures for managing incoming and outgoing communications

• Outline basic procedures for scheduling, preauthorization, and referrals

• Give examples of other required policies

Unit 5: Procedures and Patient Care

Clerical procedures in healthcare facilities are associated with either administrative tasks or clinical/patient care. Clerical procedures associated with clinical services affect patient care and are carried out by employees who possess a basic set of clinical skills, such as medical assistants, nursing assistants, nurses, etc. The focus of this unit is on the clerical procedures associated with direct patient care.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Identify the type of employee positions that assist providers with patient care

• Describe the procedure for a patient exam conducted by the assistant

• Outline the components of a pre-op and post-op order

• Explain the admission process followed by the health unit coordinator

• Compare and contrast the use of electronic medical records and paper records

Unit 6: Information Technology in the Medical Office

The medical office relies on a variety of technology and computer systems to accomplish daily tasks and meet patient expectations. Years ago, a patient would call the office to get an appointment and/or request copies of their medical record. Now, patients can make appointments, request medication refills, and obtain copies of their records through the office’s patient portal. Technology that was once a luxury for large offices and organizations is now a necessity, and even the smallest offices can afford to use it. Examples of advances in technology include electronic medical records, electronic prescribing, patient portals, email and voicemail reminders, automated patient appointments, and telemedicine. It’s amazing how the practice of medicine has been transformed by a computer.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Describe how technology has affected health care in the past 50 years

• List the basic technology skills needed in the medical office

• Identify the functions of a medical office computer system

• Summarize the responsibilities of information technology (IT) support personnel

Unit 7: Medical Records Management

Medical records are used to gather and document patients’ health and administrative information. Electronic medical records organize information in a manner that is easy to read, easy to search, and easy to use. Most medical offices use electronic medical records, but there are still some that prefer paper records. The offices that use electronic records still may use paper forms for certain services, but later transfer that information to the electronic record. Medical records assist physicians in providing the best care possible to their patients. They are also used to track information for reporting and data collection purposes. Everyone in the medical office should understand how a record is created, the content, organization of content, filing methods, and the legal requirements for working with medical records.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Explain why medical facilities have converted from paper to electronic medical records

• Provide examples of how different office staff use electronic medical records

• Identify processes for using paper medical records

• List the primary responsibilities of the medical records staff

Unit 8: Medical Law and Ethics

What if you were asked by a friend to find out why their daughter came to your medical office last week? Would you do it? Can you do it? No, you cannot—because this is against the law. Anyone working in a healthcare setting must have a working knowledge of medical law and ethics. Whether you are working in the office setting or providing direct patient care, you must understand and abide by the laws and ethics set forth by state and federal governments and organizations such as the American Medical Association. We study law and ethics so that we know these laws and can therefore protect our providers and their employees from unwanted legal situations.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Identify the primary reason to study law and ethics in health care

• Give an example of each of the four HIPAA standards

• Explain workplace laws and how they affect the medical office

• Examine the role of ethics in the medical office

• Describe the advanced directive process

You have learned some of the basics of what it takes to become a successful medical office administrator, and now, it’s time to grow your understanding even further! In this course, you will complete a deeper dive into the variety of roles available in the medical office along with the skills needed to not only run the front of the office but to excel in the position as well. Finally, you’ll focus on yourself and how to apply all that you’ve learned to get your foot in the door to begin a career in medical office administration. Let’s get started.

Unit 1: Managing the Medical Office

Managing the medical office is no easy feat. A medical office manager must be familiar with each employee’s role and responsibilities, from entering new patient information to processing insurance claims. Management includes functions such as planning, organizing, directing, staffing, and controlling people and things. Office managers usually have college degrees, and they demonstrate a wide variety of skills to be able to effectively manage the office. They have many responsibilities and must be able to prioritize tasks and direct people. Good office managers can manage the office effectively and motivate their people in a way that encourages them to want to be better employees and improve their work as they learn and gain more experience. Managing a medical office can be a most rewarding experience.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Define management

• List the characteristics and skills of the medical office manager

• Explain the benefits of certification

• Describe the responsibilities of the medical office manager

• Compare and contrast management and leadership

Unit 2: Medical Insurance, Coding, and Billing

Medical offices provide many types of medical services to patients, from routine physical exams to minor procedures. Someone must pay for these services and most often, payment is the patient’s responsibility. Most people don’t know if and when they may need medical services; therefore, to make sure they can pay for these services, they purchase medical insurance. Providers in medical offices agree to see and treat patients in exchange for payment. This payment is usually received from health insurance companies and/or the patient. If a patient does not have health insurance, they must cover the cost of any services themselves unless someone else is responsible for their payment. Medical offices must employ qualified personnel to manage their insurance, billing, and coding functions to ensure revenue is received and in a timely manner. These occupations offer individuals job security and a good income and can lead to other, higher-paying billing and management positions.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Identify why people purchase insurance

• Describe the difference between private and government insurance programs

• List the steps in the medical billing process

• Explain fraud and abuse in medical billing

Unit 3: Medical Coding

Medical coding is the use of standardized codes that represent diagnoses, procedures, and other services in health care. All healthcare facilities must use these diagnosis and procedures (services) codes, and they are primarily used to bill insurance companies for reimbursement for medical services. The standardized code sets include the International Classification of Diseases (ICD), the Current Procedural Terminology (CPT), and the Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System (HCPCS). The purposes of medical codes are to show medical necessity, provide statistical analyses, receive reimbursement, and determine where to allocate resources. Medical offices employ at least one medical coder or designate someone who will be responsible for coding, and it’s that person’s responsibility to analyze medical records for documentation compliance, review codes for accuracy, and educate providers and staff on code changes. The financial success of the practice is impacted by the efficiency of its medical coding process and personnel.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Describe the code sets used in medical coding

• Identify the six steps in the medical coding process

• Explain the diagnosis and procedure coding processes

• Compare and contrast the CPC and CCS certifications

Unit 4: Healthcare Quality

Anyone considering a career in health care must understand the importance of providing quality health care to patients. Providing quality care includes many things, such as employing caring, professional, and knowledgeable people; developing and monitoring office processes and procedures; and asking patients about their care. These are only a few elements that promote the delivery of quality care. Quality care primarily depends on the providers. Providers such as physicians, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants have obtained the required education and training for their jobs, but they must also continue to maintain current knowledge in their field. From the receptionist to the provider, everyone in the office is responsible for providing quality care to their patients.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Define quality in healthcare

• Identify quality programs in the medical office

• Describe the types of data medical offices are required to collect and report

• List and explain methods for preventing a lawsuit

Unit 5: Patient Safety

Did you know millions of patients suffer from injuries or die because of unsafe or bad health care? The World Health Organization reported that globally, medication errors were a leading cause of injury in healthcare systems. Patients expect their providers and the medical office to deliver safe health care in a safe environment, and all employees in the medical office are responsible for patient safety. The office should have procedures in place—procedures that all employees know and follow to protect their patients. It is the responsibility of all healthcare providers to do what is necessary to promote and prevent patient safety. Failure to do so not only results in poor patient outcomes but also increased costs and potential legal issues. Offices should promote a culture of patient safety so that employees are constantly aware of their role in providing safe health care.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Define patient safety in healthcare

• Identify organizations, laws, and standards that endorse patient safety

• Describe a culture of patient safety in the medical office

• Recognize examples of patient safety procedures in the medical office

Unit 6: Accounting Day to Day

Medical office staff perform a variety of accounting functions in the medical office. From the time the patient arrives for their appointment to the point where final payments are made, there are accounting procedures that must be followed to ensure an accurate accounting of money received and spent. The focus is on daily accounting procedures such as posting transactions, processing and submitting insurance claims, posting reimbursement from insurance companies, managing and collecting delinquent accounts, and creating reports. Most medical offices use computerized patient accounting systems as well as written policies and procedures to complete these daily accounting functions. Employees responsible for accounting tasks possess specific accounting skills and must be trained on the office’s accounting procedures. The profit and integrity of the practice depend on all employees understanding and adhering to respectable accounting practices.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Explain how services for insured patients are paid

• Define accounting and the four elements of accounting

• Illustrate the types of reports used in medical office accounting and how they are used

• Describe the career opportunities in insurance, billing, and coding

Unit 7: Accounting: The Bigger Picture

Healthcare facilities must focus on their finances to continue providing healthcare services, improve services, buy new equipment, train personnel, and make countless other improvements. Whether facilities are not-for-profit or for-profit, there must be someone—or even several people—in charge of the bigger picture. These are not the people entering daily charges and transactions. These are the office managers, providers, and other involved personnel who have a stake in the business. They are creating, reviewing, and analyzing financial reports regularly to make informed decisions that will impact the financial success of the office. Individuals working in this field of health care must possess excellent organizational, problem-solving, mathematical, and critical thinking skills.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Explain the difference between day-to-day accounting and managerial accounting

• List four common accounting policies

• Describe the elements included in a simple budget

• Identify four types of medical office expenses

• Name the skills necessary for finance managers

Unit 8: Careers

Choosing a career might be a daunting task, but it is an exciting one as well. You are at a time in your life when so many things are possible. With so many career options, how do you decide? There are many ways to explore careers to determine the best one for you. Many students start working toward their career goals while in high school, which is why you are taking this course. Self-assessment questionnaires can help determine what you like to do and what you inherently do well. Interviewing and job shadowing professionals working in your potential field can also provide you with valuable information that only those working in the field can provide. Choosing a career takes time and effort, but the results are worth it.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Define career exploration

• Give examples of student clubs and the opportunities they provide

• Identify potential medical office careers

• Describe how to prepare for a mock job interview

Watching a keyboard wizard work their magic over the keys is mesmerizing, and now, you can learn the magic of their movements! In this course, you’ll build a solid foundation of typing skills, develop good habits and techniques, and build confidence as you become a typing wiz. You’ll also learn proper finger placement, and correct posture to improve speed and accuracy and explore future careers where typists thrive. Get ready to become a typing magician today.

Unit 1: Why Type?

There is no crystal ball to predict the future. Yet, the advances in technology continue to indicate the importance of being computer and technology-savvy. To efficiently and accurately interact with technology, it’s critical to develop typing skills. This unit will show you why strong typing skills are necessary for your day-to-day living, and how this skill can increase your productivity and save you time. And who doesn’t want to save time? We’ll also explore the different jobs that require the daily use of typing so you can consider these options as you map out your future career. Let’s dive in!

What will you learn in this unit?

• Describe how communication has changed in recent years

• Discuss personal reasons for type

• Explain the basic requirements of different typing jobs

• Identify a variety of non-typing jobs

• Use student leadership opportunities to help plan your career

Unit 2: Keyboards Through the Years

The keyboard is an extraordinary invention that has been used for typing for hundreds of years. This unit will take you on a journey of discovery as you learn how keyboards have changed and evolved. Your journey will begin by learning about early typewriters, the keyboard layout, the progress toward the electric typewriter, and the keyboards used today. Finally, you will discover the importance of caring for typewriters and keyboards. Here we go!

What will you learn in this unit?

• Explain the history of early typewriters

• Distinguish between the different keyboard layouts used for typing

• Discuss the evolution of electric typewriters

• Identify modern-day keyboards used today for typing

• Demonstrate caring for keyboard equipment

Unit 3: Typing Techniques

Wouldn’t you love to be able to fly over the keys of your keyboard, typing like a pro? Developing good typing habits and techniques is the key to doing just that! Building a good foundation of typing skills will assist you in becoming a quick and accurate typist so you can work with ease and confidence. This unit will introduce you to the proper sitting posture and finger placement to help you maximize your performance as a typist, save time, and prevent injury. You will also learn the alphabetic, numeric, and symbol keys commonly found on a computer keyboard. Get ready to build those skills!

What will you learn in this unit?

• Demonstrate the proper typing posture

• Locate the home row on the keyboard

• Explain the uses of the different numeric keys on the keyboard

• Discuss the functions of the symbol keys

Unit 4: The Document Production Process

Being able to communicate effectively in writing is a crucial life skill. A big part of making your writing clear and effective is planning! This unit will guide you through the document production process, which involves outlining, drafting, editing, and proofreading text within a document. Learning to plan what you want to say and how you say it can make all the difference in helping your writing achieve its goal and avoiding misunderstandings. Are you ready for this writing adventure? Let’s get typing!

What will you learn in this unit?

• Use a variety of written resources in your writing process

• Identify a clear purpose, type of document, and audience for your writing

• Create an outline and a rough draft

• Edit and proofread your work

Unit 5: Personal Communications

Learning to communicate with others in a meaningful way will benefit you for the rest of your life. And writing is an important part of communication! Your writing makes a lasting impression and you want that impression to be positive. This unit will introduce you to some of the different types of personal communication you can use daily to create new relationships and strengthen existing ones. Let’s explore how you can be better equipped to prepare personal letters, compose an email, and produce written messages for online publication so you can stay in touch with others.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Prepare and format personal letters

• Compose an email

• Produce written messages for online publication

• Discuss the evolution of written communication through time

Unit 6: Business Communications

There are many forms of written communication used in today’s workplace. What you communicate and how you communicate it is extremely important. Words can determine success or failure. Through words, businesses and organizations can earn or lose trust, gain or miss out on revenue, and add or drop clients/customers. In this unit, we’ll cover some of the basic forms of business communication, such as business letters, memos, press releases, and business reports, and how to make them the best that they can be!

What will you learn in this unit?

• Compose and format business letters

• Create memos for business correspondence

• Write press releases to share information with the media

• Produce and format a business report

Unit 7: Speed, Accuracy, and Improvement

Typing is a skill that will benefit you now and in the future. To become a consistently accurate and quick typist, it takes practice. The time and effort you put forth to practice your typing skills will automate your thinking and move your fingers quickly into the correct position. Imagine the time you can save by producing accurate and quality work! Are you ready to explore some techniques and resources you can begin using today to increase your typing speed and accuracy? Let’s get started!

What will you learn in this unit?

• Identify the importance of accuracy when typing

• Discuss the value of increasing typing speed

• Apply different techniques to improve typing skills

• Use online resources to practice typing

Unit 8: Using Your Skills in the Workplace

As you look for a job, employers will expect you to have a variety of skills, some technical (like typing) and some more nuanced (like communication skills). The work you are doing now to develop and improve the many skills you will need will serve you for a lifetime. The key to a satisfying career is finding something that you enjoy doing and developing the skills necessary to excel at it. Besides the skills we’ve already covered in this course, in this unit you will gain insights into understanding legal issues within the workplace, how to demonstrate professionalism in the workplace, and how to collaborate with others—all very helpful when it comes time to launch your career!

What will you learn in this unit?

• Describe legal issues that employees face in the workplace

• Demonstrate professionalism at work

• Communicate effectively with others on work assignments

• Plan for a typing career