Medical Assistant Program Handbook

This handbook contains the following sections. Use the quick links for easy navigation.

• Program Information
• Professional Organization
• Accreditation Information
• College Information & Resources
• Student Handbook
• Core Performance Standards and Criteria of Admission and Progression
• Student Rights & Responsibilities
• Classroom Etiquette
• CPR Requirement
• Health Status or Condition
• Program Standards
• The Practicum Experience
• Petition to Graduate
• Course Withdrawal and Changes
• Program Re-Admission
• Program Forms & Educational Competencies
• Health Careers Department Information and Forms
• Faculty and Staff Information

Welcome

On behalf of the program faculty, I would like to express my pleasure that you have chosen ICC to make your dream of becoming a professional a reality.

This handbook and the Catalog and Student Handbook are the policies and procedures you must follow and are accountable for adhering to. Sometimes, the Medical Coder Program requirements may exceed the College's requirements.

If you have any questions regarding the Medical Assistant Program's policies and procedures, please get in touch with the Program Director. You may schedule an appointment by calling (309) 690-7530.

We look forward to helping you achieve course objectives, student learning outcomes, and program and professional standards.

Wendee Guth, RN, MS, CNE, Dean of Health Careers

Dr. Courtney Gehrig, PhD, MBS, MPH, CMA (AAMA), Program Coordinator

Program Information

Find program information, course listing, recommended sequencing, and learning outcomes in the ICC Catalog and Student Handbook, Medical Assistant Program. 

Learn More About Medical Assistant Program

Mission Statement

The mission of the Medical Assistant Program is to prepare medical assistants who are competent in the cognitive (knowledge), psychomotor (skills), and affective (behavior) learning domains to enter the profession.

Program Philosophy

Faculty members believe that educational opportunities should be provided to prepare medical assistants. The course curriculum for the Medical Assistant Program is designed to meet the Standards and Guidelines for Medical Assisting Educational Programs established by the Medical Assisting Education Review Board. The curriculum also provides a foundation of general education courses for professional and personal growth. Additionally, the curriculum is designed to support and integrate the College’s learning philosophy.

Course-level outcomes are developed to combine theoretical knowledge and the technical aspects of medical assisting. Appropriate clinical experiences provide students with the opportunity to apply attained knowledge and skills. Achievement of program goals and learning outcomes is assessed using competencies and course exams to ensure effective student preparation for career success as a medical assistant and for passing the CMA (AAMA) exam.

Program graduates are expected to respond ethically to the needs of their patients with clinical competence and compassion. Graduates know the need to update their knowledge and skills through active participation in professional organizations, continuing educational activities, and lifelong learning.

Goals and Learning Outcomes

1. Students will exhibit clinical competency.
   • Students will demonstrate knowledge of basic math computations using applied mathematics.
   • Students will apply appropriate human anatomy and physiology principles by performing patient skills competencies.
   • Students will demonstrate knowledge of proper infection control techniques to ensure compliance with CDC regulations in healthcare settings.
   • Students will demonstrate knowledge of medication classifications.
2. Students will demonstrate concepts of effective communication​​​​​​. 
   • Students will demonstrate professional telephone techniques.
   • Students will demonstrate the ability to respond appropriately to nonverbal communication.
   • Students will demonstrate the ability to report relevant information to the physician.
   • Students will demonstrate the ability to instruct a patient according to the patient's special dietary needs.
3. Students will exhibit administrative skills. 
   • Students will demonstrate competence in obtaining accurate patient billing information.
   • Students will demonstrate competence in Basic Practice Finances & Third-Party Reimbursement.
   • Students will demonstrate competency in how to use the most current CPT & ICD coding systems.
   • Students will demonstrate competence in using the EMR.
4. Students will model professional behavior. 
   • Students will describe the state’s legal scope of practice for a medical assistant.
5. Students will exhibit appropriate critical thinking skills.
   • Students will evaluate an environment to identify unsafe conditions.

Professional Organization

The American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA) is the professional organization that represents medical assistants in their profession.  The AAMA keeps medical assistants abreast of changes in the health care delivery field and protects medical assistants’ rights to practice. It is highly recommended that students join the AAMA to take the CMA exam at a discounted price.

Accreditation Information

The Medical Assistant program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (www.caahep.org) upon the recommendation of Medical Assisting Education Review Board (MAERB).”

Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs
9355 113th Street N., #7709
Seminole, FL 33775-7709
Phone: 727-210-2350
Fax: 727-210-2354
http://www.caahep.org/

Graduates from ICC’s CAAHEP-Accredited Medical Assistant Program are eligible to take the CMA (AAMA) Certification Exam.

The 2022 ANNUAL REPORT FORM (ARF) results for the most recently evaluated year showed the following:

Graduate Satisfaction – 100%
Employer Satisfaction – 100%
Exam Passage – 91%

College Information & Resources

Learn about Illinois Central College. 

• Accreditation Information 
• Mission, Vision, Core Values and Philosophy 
• Institutional Learning Outcomes
• Tuition & Fees
• Financial Assistance

Student Hub

Visit the Student Hub, your one-stop portal for everything you need about campus information and services. You can find information about your User ID and password, technology support, Canvas, the Bookstore, Safety and Security, Student Life, the Library and Academic Support Center, well-being, and more!

Visit the Student Hub

My Alert

Current students are automatically enrolled in MyAlert to receive emergency notifications through text messages, calls, and emails. Please keep this information up-to-date in your ICC account. You can opt out of receiving text or voice calls by replying unsubscribe. Learn more about emergency notifications and closings.

Student Handbook

The Student Handbook is published annually as part of the ICC Catalog and Student Handbook.

Student, Rights, Responsibilities, and Procedures

• Code of Conduct
• Prohibited Conduct
• Student Conduct Proceedings
• Student Grievance Process
• Student Policies and Procedures
• Student Rights and Responsibilities
• Violations of Laws

Campus Police and Regulations

• Campus Police & Regulations
• In Case of Emergency
• Tobacco, Alcohol & Drugs Policy
• Violations of College Regulations

Academic Policies and Procedures

• Academic Standing
• Catalog of Record
• Grading Policies
• Academic Integrity
• Grade Appeal and Exclusion
• Graduation
• Student Records

Additional College Information

• Student Services
• Student Life
• Explanation of Terms

Core Performance Standards and Criteria of Admission and Progression

A medical assistant must possess capabilities and abilities, including communication, motor, sensory, problem-solving, behavioral skills, and professionalism, necessary to provide competent medical assisting care. Reasonable accommodation may be made for some disabilities in certain areas, but a medical assistant must be able to perform in all areas independently. Using a trained intermediary is unacceptable, as someone else’s observation and action cannot mediate a medical assistant’s judgment.

The following capabilities and abilities are necessary to meet curriculum requirements and to perform the responsibilities of a medical assistant:

Communication

• Adequate command of the English language and medical terminology to read and retrieve information from lectures, textbooks, and other teaching and learning resources.
• Communicate effectively in English with patients, families, and other healthcare providers verbally and in writing.
• Effectively adapt communication for the diverse needs of the intended audience.
• Interact to establish rapport with a diverse population.
• Perform verbal individualized instruction.
• Demonstrate computer literacy skills.

Motor

• Squat, bend/stoop, reach above shoulder level, use standing balance, and climb stairs.
• Lift and carry up to 50 lbs. and exert up to 100 lbs. of force or push/pull.
• Use hands repetitively; use manual dexterity; sufficient fine motor function.
• Must be able to walk and stand for extended periods.
• Move from room to room and maneuver in small spaces.
• Perform instruction by manual demonstration if applicable.
• Perform CPR.
• Travel to and from academic and clinical sites.

Sensory

• Auditory ability sufficient to hear verbal communication from patients and health team members; includes ability to respond to emergency signals.
• Discern soft sounds, such as those associated with taking blood pressure.
• Visual acuity to acquire information from electronic medical records or written documents.
• Elicit patient information by inspection, palpation, auscultation, and percussion.
• Comfortable working in close physical proximity to patients.

Critical Thinking

• 1. Address problems or questions to the appropriate persons at the appropriate times.
• Adhere to policies and procedures, including, but not limited to, safety and infection control.
• Use sound judgment in decision-making.
• Function effectively under stress.
• Adapt to changing environment and inherent uncertainties.
• Respond appropriately to emergencies.
• Demonstrate problem-solving skills in patient care. (Measure, calculate, reason, prioritize, analyze, and synthesize data.)
• Organize and prioritize patient care needs and job responsibilities.

Behavioral Skills and Professionalism

• Adhere to policies and procedures required by academic and clinical settings.
• Adhere to Illinois Central College Medical Assistant Program Policies found in the Medical Assistant Program Handbook.
• Maintain patient confidentiality and abide by the guidelines set forth in the Health Information Portability and Accountability Act.
• Assume the role of a health care team member.
• Function effectively under supervision.
• Accept criticism and reflect upon provided feedback to improve performance and practice.
• Display caring and compassion for others.
• Commit to lifelong learning.

Student Rights and Responsibilities

The rights and responsibilities of all Illinois Central College students are described in detail in the College Catalog and Student Rights & Responsibilities Handbook.

Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA) establishes safety standards that protect the safety of healthcare workers and patients, and healthcare employers have protocols and practices to ensure the safety of patients and healthcare providers. Medical Assistants, while working under the supervision of healthcare providers, assume the responsibility to ensure patient safety and deliver quality patient care. When providing direct patient care, there are occupational risks and potential hazards, including, but not limited to:

• Chemical and drug exposure
• Ergonomic hazards from lifting, sitting, and repetitive tasks
• Exposure to bloodborne pathogens and biological hazards
• Exposure to infectious diseases
• Latex allergies
• Sharps injuries
• Stress

The responsibilities of Medical Assistant students include:

• Attend classes and practicums regularly.
• Operate motor vehicles safely and legally.
• Safe care and use of equipment in classroom and practicum settings.
• Actions characterized by honesty. Contrary actions, such as plagiarism or giving unauthorized help on examinations, may result in disciplinary action per college policy.

Refrain from:

• giving false or misleading information to any College official or tampering with any College record;
• possessing or taking any narcotic, stimulant, or drug except as prescribed by a physician;
•  giving, exchanging, or selling any drug to another person;
• possessing or consuming any alcoholic beverage on campus or practicum facility; · giving, exchanging, or selling such beverages to another;
• using the College name or emblem in an unauthorized or unseemly manner.

Students are responsible for knowing and abiding by all College regulations, together with federal, state, and local laws. These are enforced by appropriate civil, state, or College authorities.

If students are in doubt about any particular matter, they should consult the Student Success Center at 309-694-5281 or email studentsuccess@icc.edu. The SSC is located in CC200 on the East Peoria Campus and Arbor Hall 02C on the Peoria Campus.

Medical Assistant students have additional responsibilities because of the sensitive and confidential role they will be assuming during their education. These additional responsibilities include:

Personal Honesty, Integrity, and Professional Ethical Behavior

• Be accountable for your own actions.
• The student is to inform the program faculty and practicum instructor of any error or accident that occurred in the practicum course. Any student caught cheating is subject to disciplinary action per college policy.

Maintaining Confidentiality

• Discuss information related to patients/classmates as appropriate in the classroom and clinical settings.
• Read medical records of only assigned patients. Students must obtain practicum instructor permission to read medical records other than those of their assigned patients.
• Destroy program written assignments containing patient information at the end of practicum experiences.
• Understand and abide by patient confidentiality and HIPAA rules.
• Failure to maintain confidentiality will result in disciplinary action.
•  Maintain confidentiality of private information of classmates acquired during classroom/lab activities.

Participation

Participate in classroom and lab activities in order to:

• Apply and understand medical assistant procedures and role-play,
• Understand and practice the role of the medical assistant and patient.

This may include activities such as:

• Taking vitals and height/weight
• Performing ECG’s
• Performing venipuncture and capillary puncture
• Performing ear lavage
• Performing injections
• Respectful exposure of appropriate body parts
• Field trips
• Simulated patient/medical assistant scenarios: each student is expected to serve as a practice subject (patient simulator) for other students while in the program. During practice activities students may use expired supplies clearly marked for practice purposes, not for human use but for education only. During role play activities when a student serves as a practice subject, only current supplies will be used. Students objecting or unable to fulfill this requirement should have a legitimate reason and submit a written request for reasonable accommodation to faculty.
• Participate in practicum with interventions on real patients/clients under the supervision and direction of a practicum instructor.

The following unprofessional behaviors will lead to disciplinary actions per college policy:

1. Explicit use of profanity.
2. Falsifying or altering records – cheating on exams.
3. Abusing, stealing, or destroying any property on the premises of the College or practicum education center.
4. Violating confidentiality policy.
5. Possession of guns or weapons on campus or at the practicum education center premises.
6. Violating or falsifying health/incident forms (including not reporting correctly).
7. Willfully disregarding College or practicum education center policies.
8. Blatant disrespect for instructor or classmates.
9. Failure to maintain satisfactory academic grades and/or practicum performance.
10. Failure to follow and maintain attendance policies.
11. Failure to follow and maintain classroom safety policies.
12. Unsatisfactory rating on the Professionalism Competency.
13. Smoking on campus or in prohibited areas of the practicum education center.
14. Unprofessional or unsafe patient care, upon recommendation of practicum personnel or instructor.
15. Sexual harassment (see College policy).
16. As part of the process of chemical impairment policy implementation.
17. Representing self as an ICC student to patients during nonscheduled practicum times.
18. Theft of any kind.
19. Violating hospital or practicum education center policies.

Classroom Etiquette

Food is not permitted in the classroom during didactic or laboratory activities, but drinks are permitted. Food is allowed in the student lounge and locker region. Cell phones must be turned off and put away during class time, but students may check for messages during breaks.

CPR Requirement

Upon program acceptance, students must submit proof of CPR certification at the American Heart Association (AHA) Healthcare Provider level or American Red Cross (ARC) Professional Rescuer and Health Care Providers level. Proof must be an original or photocopy of the course completion card issued by either the AHA or ARC. Students are required to maintain current CPR certification throughout the program. Students will not receive a practicum placement unless proof of current CPR certification is on file with the Program Director.

Health Status or Condition

A student that experiences a medical condition (including pregnancy), physical/mental illness, surgery, or injury; or is taking a prescription/nonprescription medication that limits or interferes with their ability to meet classroom, laboratory or clinical objectives, must have a signed release from their physician indicating that they may return to classroom, laboratory, and/or clinical without restrictions.

A student absent for two or more consecutive days due to a medical condition, physical/mental illness, surgery, or injury must have a signed clinical release from their physician indicating that they may return to the classroom, laboratory, and/or clinical without restrictions.

Students who fail to provide a signed release where required will be unable to attend classroom, laboratory, and/or clinical.

At any time throughout the program, a faculty member may request the student leave the clinical area because of an altered state of health that, in the faculty member's professional judgment, renders the student unable to perform assigned duties safely and effectively. The missed time will be counted as an absence, and the student will be counseled regarding the situation and the necessary steps to return to clinical for clinical reinstatement.

Clinical agencies reserve the right to determine if a student may attend a practicum in their facility while under a physician's care.

A student experiencing a medical condition, illness/mental illness, surgery, injury, or under the influence of a prescription/nonprescription medication that prevents timely attainment of required course objectives may encounter a delay in graduation date until those objectives can be satisfied. Student options include:

1. Continuation in program sequence with possible extension of educational period, or
2. Program withdrawal with request for readmission (see program readmission policy) into program sequence, or
3. Withdrawal from the course/program

Accommodation for Lactation or Breastfeeding

Illinois Central College will provide a readily available, private space suitable for lactating or breastfeeding students. It is the student's responsibility to discuss this need with the Program Director so that such space may be provided.

Program Standards

Dress Policy

Students are expected to adhere to the same dress policy requirements listed under the PRACTICUM EXPERIENCE heading without exception while on campus for classroom/laboratory sessions.

Class Attendance

Regular attendance at all class meetings and laboratory sessions is essential to the learning process and expected of all students. Excessive absence is the most common cause of failing grades and may hinder students from completing course objectives. A student who does not satisfactorily complete the objectives for a Medical Assistant course will not progress within the program.

All personal or individual appointments (e.g., physician, dentist, etc.) should be scheduled at times other than during assigned Medical Assistant experiences, including class, laboratory, and practicum. In the event of illness or unforeseen emergency, the student or other designated person must contact the faculty and Program Director as soon as possible.

Absences

When absences exceed two, the student may no longer be allowed to progress in the program. The student must meet with the Program Director to determine a course of action. The student must call the instructor before class and explain the reason for the absence. The student is responsible for obtaining materials from the missed class session. A student's absence is assessed on the Professionalism Evaluation by point deduction, and this evaluation may be failed due to absenteeism. An “unsatisfactory” rating on the Professionalism Evaluation of 20 or less after attempted remediation or at week 16 (week 8 for 8-week courses) results in the student no longer being allowed to progress in the Medical Assistant Program.

Tardiness

Students are expected to be present at the beginning of class and remain until class is dismissed. Two tardies are equivalent to one absence. If tardiness remains problematic, the student must meet with the Program Director to determine the course of action.

Program Progression and Grading

A student must attain a grade of a “C” (70%) or higher in each program course to remain in and progress through the program. In addition, the student must maintain a 70%/passing status on competencies in program courses with a skills component to stay in and progress through the program.

To pass the practicum course and graduate from the program, the student must attain a passing grade of 70% or better.

The percentage weighting of the above may vary by course on each specific course syllabus. The following grading scale is used for all program courses:

Midterm and semester grades in each course are derived from cumulative points. Students must attain at least 70% of the total points in each course to earn a C in that course.

When a student has repeated incidents of failing grades; unsatisfactory, unacceptable, or unsafe practice; or unprofessional or inappropriate conduct in the classroom, the following procedure will be used:

1. The program faculty will document the incidents.
2. The student will meet with the involved faculty member. A counseling form will be completed and placed in the student’s file, and the student will be given a copy.

If the student does not show improvement following the established plan of action on the counseling form, the problem will be reviewed again with the student and involved faculty, with the Program Director present. The Dean may also be involved, as necessary. Continued failure to comply with the conditions outlined in these discussions and documentation will result in an unsatisfactory grade and unsatisfactory rating on the Professionalism Evaluation, and the student will not be allowed to progress in the program.

Examinations

Dates for quizzes, examinations, and competencies are outlined in each specific course outline.

Exams will occur throughout each course on material covered in class(es) and determined by the faculty. Students who arrive late may be allowed to take the exam but will not be given additional time to complete it.

Late or failed submission of an online exam or homework/assignments will result in a grade of (0) zero, which is assessed on the Professionalism Evaluation by point deduction.

If a student is absent on the day of the exam, the student must contact the faculty member prior to the scheduled exam. The exam/competency make-up must be student-initiated and scheduled prior to the next class, or the grade entered will be a zero (0). 

Written Examination Remediation

Failure to demonstrate the minimal level of knowledge on an exam (<70%) will result in a remediation plan for the student to demonstrate a minimal level of understanding of the exam content.  The student will be required to meet with faculty to discuss the issue with an outlined remediation plan that includes completing the “Written Exam Remediation Form.”  The student's remediation plan will outline the expectations, requirements, and deadlines for this form.  Upon completion of the exam remediation form, the course faculty will review it and determine if the student has met the minimal level of knowledge covered on the exam.  This form, along with the student’s remediation plan, will be maintained by the course faculty.

The original exam score will remain the record grade with no additional points for completion of the remediation plan.  Since the remediation activity involves the student reviewing the original exam, the student must remain on campus to complete the form.  The student will, however, be able to use any course materials and resources to complete the form.

If the student does not complete this form or fulfill the remediation plan, the student will not be allowed to progress in the program.

Program Competencies

Courses with a skills component will have competencies in which students demonstrate selected skills. Competencies are “pass/fail.” To “pass” the competency, the student must score at least 70%.  If a student scores less than 70%, this is considered “failing” and the competency must be repeated.  To pass the repeat competency evaluation, the student must score at least 70%.  If a student scores less than 70%, this is considered “failing” and the student may be given a third option to demonstrate proficiency of the failed skill. A student forfeits one of the three attempts for each missed competency due to student absence. 

The maximum number of allowed repeat competency evaluations is eight for MEDO 110, eight for MEDO 111, two for MEDO 112, and two for MEDO 114.

To pass courses and graduate from the program, 100% of the psychomotor and affective competencies must be successfully completed.  

If the student cannot demonstrate proficiency with the third attempt or has reached the maximum number of allowed repeat competency evaluations, the student will not be allowed to progress in the program.

Professionalism Evaluation

The student is continually evaluated for professionalism but rated at 8 and 16 weeks in all MEDO courses. The grade received at 16 weeks (or 8 weeks for 8-week courses) is figured as a percentage of the course grade (see each course syllabus for percentage values). Students will not be allowed to progress in the program with an unsatisfactory rating of 20 or less after attempted remediation or at week 16 (or week 8 for 8-week courses).

Written Assignments/Oral Reports

Due dates for written assignments are indicated on each course outline.  Points will be reduced by 10% for each day the written assignment is past due.  Assignments turned in one week (or 2 class sessions) after the due date will not be accepted, with a grade of zero entered. Failure to present oral reports on the assigned date will result in a grade of 0 for the oral report.

Electronic Devices Usage

Personal electronic devices, such as cell phones, smart gadgets, and pagers, shall be silenced during class.

If allowed by the instructor, personal electronic devices, such as cell phones, tablets, and laptop computers, may be utilized during designated class time for learning purposes, including taking notes, reviewing reference materials, charting data, etc.

If a faculty member questions a student's use of an electronic device, the faculty member reserves the right to remove it from student use. The device will be returned to the student after the session.

Children

Due to safety concerns, children are not allowed in the classroom during scheduled class times (exception: when studying pediatrics in MEDO 111).  Under no circumstances are children allowed on facility sites during the practicum experience.  

The Practicum Experience

Practicum placements are determined by the student information from the Program Director to the site placement coordinators. The practicum experience occurs in ambulatory settings such as medical offices or clinics.

General Information

Practicum Experiences:  A supervised practicum of 180 contact hours in a healthcare setting, demonstrating the knowledge, skills, and behaviors of the MAERB Core Curriculum in performing clinical and administrative duties, must be completed before graduation. 

Transportation and Parking 

Transportation to the practicum facility and related parking fees, as appropriate, are the student's responsibility.  The student should have a contingency plan for transportation in case of car problems or inclement weather.  Appropriate parking areas at each facility will be identified, and students are expected to follow parking rules and procedures for the assigned practicum facility.  Students are expected to travel at least 60 minutes, or greater, to assigned practicum education sites.

Attendance Policy

Students are expected to report to the practicum facility on time, appropriately dressed, and prepared to complete practicum assignments.  In last-minute emergencies, the student must immediately notify the practicum supervisor and Program Director.  Missed practicum days must be made up and scheduled at mutually agreed-upon times with the practicum supervisor.  The Program Director must be notified and agree to establish a make-up plan for final approval.  Make-up days must occur during the experience time frames.  More than two missed practicum days may be grounds for dismissal from the facility and the program.

Inclement Weather

If the College is going to be closed due to inclement weather conditions, the administration will notify faculty, staff, and students of the closing of the College as soon as possible through the MyAlert system and the following radio and television stations:  WMBD-TV Channel 31; WHOI-TV Channel 19; WEEK-TV Channel 25; WMBD 1470 AM; The Drive 93.3 FM; WSWT Mix 106.9 FM; WXCL The Wolf 104.9 FM; as well as the College website, www.icc.edu; www.facebook.com/ IllinoisCentralCollege; and www.twitter.com/IllinoisCentralCollege.  Information may also be obtained by telephoning (309) 694-5-ICC.  When classes are canceled, practicum sessions are also canceled.  If no announcement is made, classes and clinicals will be held as usual.

Other Practicum Information

When a student has repeated incidents of unsatisfactory, unacceptable, or unsafe practice or unprofessional or inappropriate conduct in the clinical setting, the following procedure will be used:

1. The office manager or preceptor will document the incidents.
2. The student will meet with the office manager to discuss the issue; a counseling form will be completed and placed in the student’s file, and the student will also be provided with a copy.
3. If the student does not meet the established plan of action criteria, the problem will be reviewed again with the student and the Program Director also present.  As needed, the Dean of Health Careers may also be involved.

Continued failure to comply with the conditions outlined in these discussions and documentation may result in an unsatisfactory grade of below 70%, and the student will not progress in the program. The students are responsible for providing practicum information to family and/or spouse/significant other so they can be reached in case of emergency.

• Personal calls are not allowed except for emergencies.
• Students are not allowed in the practicum facility in a student capacity except during practicum hours.  
• Smoking, cell phone use, food, and drinks are not permitted in patient treatment areas during practicum sessions. Students must follow all other facility policies.  
• Students are expected to act professionally and ethically in the practicum setting.  The student must contact the Program Director if ethical questions occur in the practicum setting.

Students are responsible for carrying out procedures that they have learned and practiced in the classroom.  Such interventions are to be carried out under the direction and supervision of the practicum preceptor. If a student is asked to carry out an intervention for which they have not had instruction or practice, the student must notify the practicum supervisor.

Dress Policy

Dress, grooming, and personal cleanliness standards contribute to the professional image of the individual, program, and healthcare discipline. Without exception, students are expected to adhere to the dress policy during assigned clinical activities. 

1. Clinical uniform is burgundy scrub pants with burgundy scrub shirt; must be clean, neat, wrinkle-free, and of proper fit and length, and be worn during assigned clinical activities. Pants are to be high enough (normal rise) and tops long enough, so no skin is exposed during treatment procedures in classroom/lab and practicum experience. 
2. Undergarments must be of a color and design that will not show through the uniform. 
3. Photo ID Must be worn with the uniform (arrangements for securing photo ID will be announced)
4. College Patch must be sewn on the upper left sleeve of scrub shirt, and jacket (patch is purchased in College bookstore).
5. Shoes must be low-topped, white walking shoes, tennis shoes, or uniform shoes (closed-toe and heel; no canvas or mesh, no colored ties, stripes, or insignias). 
6. Neutral nylons or white above-the-ankle socks are permitted.
7. Cell phone use is not permitted during clinical or classroom experience; it is recommended that devices be left in a secure place and not be carried on person. 
8. Jewelry is limited to a wedding band, watch, and no more than two small post earrings per ear. Visible body piercing jewelry (rings or studs in nose, tongue, lips, eyebrows, etc.) is not allowed. 
9. Tattoos, if visible, must be covered.
10. Hair must be clean, neat, and worn away from the face to maintain sepsis. Long hair must always be tied back for the safety of the student and patient. Male students must keep beards and mustaches trimmed, neat, and clean. Hair color must be of a natural color such as brown, black, or blonde.  Hair color such as pink, blue, orange, etc., is not acceptable and must be covered up during the practicum experience.
11. Makeup should be used in moderation. Perfume, cologne, and aftershave should be used sparingly or not at all. Deodorant is recommended to control body odor. 
12. Artificial nails and artificial eyelashes are not allowed; long nails must be trimmed and unpolished. 
13. Mouthwash and breath-freshener mints are recommended to control body odor, cigarette breath, or halitosis. Gum chewing is not permitted.
14. Smoking is prohibited, and students must ensure that clothing and hair do not smell of tobacco.
15. Gloves should be worn when working with blood and body fluids; standard precautions should be always adhered to.

There may be other requirements specific to each clinical site. 

Accident Reports

If there is an accident or injury to a student during the practicum session, the student must immediately notify the Program Director and the practicum supervisor. The practicum supervisor of the facility and Program Director will make written reports. A copy of these reports will be placed in the student’s practicum file. Any further actions will depend on the nature of the incident. Specific procedures and forms for exposure to blood or body fluids are included in the handbook addendum and provided to practicum instructors.

Supervision

Medical Assistant students may be supervised by any licensed or certified CMA personnel. Students are not allowed to provide patient procedures if there is no supervision. If the student arrives at the clinical facility and there is not a practicum supervisor onsite, the Program Director is to be notified immediately to discuss the situation.

Grading

Using the Practicum Education Evaluation Tools, the practicum evaluator/preceptor completes an assessment of the student’s performance at 90 hours (midterm) and one final evaluation at the conclusion of the 180-hour experience for a total of two separate evaluations. The evaluations have 106 possible skills with “not available” selections taken into consideration. Skills in red print must be completed unless “unavailable” at the site.

The Midterm Evaluation score is determined by the rating assigned by the evaluator for the student’s overall performance at midterm. Very good=90%; Good=80%; Average=70%; Needs Improvement=60%; Unsatisfactory=50. 

The Final Evaluation practicum score will be the student’s score divided by the total possible points. Figured from the skills in red, 105 points out of 148 possible is the minimum to pass with a 70% for the final evaluation, though all skills are encouraged to be evaluated if possible.

Assignments

See the specific course syllabus.  Failure to turn in practicum assignments will result in an unsatisfactory grade, and the student will not progress in the program.

Patient Rights

Patients have the right to know that they are being treated by a student and may refuse treatment by the student.  The practicum instructor has the responsibility to obtain patient consent for treatment to be provided by a student and to introduce the student as such.

Agency Rights

Any practicum agency has the right to refuse a practicum agency schedule to students and faculty.

Petition to Graduate

Students must complete an Application for Certificate before the deadline for the summer semester in which they are to complete their program of study.  This application determines your status as a potential graduate.  Eligible students will be invited to participate in the commencement ceremony held in May of the following year.

Medical Assistant program students need to submit applications by the deadline date of June 1.

Applications for Certificates are accepted up to one month after the deadline, but students will be assessed a late fee of $25.00. 

If you have additional questions concerning graduation, please contact the Graduation Office at (309) 694-5612.

Course Withdrawal and Changes

Elective Course Withdrawal

When necessary to withdraw from a class or classes, the student may do so at any time until 75% of the class has elapsed. Withdrawals are accepted online, by mail, fax, or in person at ICC East Peoria, Peoria, or Pekin campuses.

All students are financially responsible for tuition and fees for classes that they enroll into during a semester. However, if the withdrawal occurs before the refund date listed on the class schedule, the student may be entitled to a refund of tuition. Students who are given a failing grade on an assignment for Academic Misconduct will not be allowed to withdraw from that course without instructor permission. Students who are given a failing grade in the course for Academic Misconduct will not be allowed to withdraw from the course. Illinois Central College reserves the right to reinstate any individuals who are withdrawn in these situations. 

Late withdrawal may be permitted in extenuating circumstances, prior to final exam, upon recommendation of the course instructor and with the approval of the Program Director and Dean/Associate Dean.

Program Withdrawal

Course Withdrawal for Non-attendance

Course Withdrawal for Nonattendance

Program Re-Admission

A written request for readmission is to be initiated through the Dean of Health Careers. A student who has failed the first semester Medical Assistant course must complete the entire application process.  A student who has failed a Medical Assistant course beyond the first semester may be readmitted only once and within one year during the entire Medical Assistant program.  In either case, readmission is based on space available provided that the student has an overall GPA of 2.00 or higher in the general education requirements and is not guaranteed in any semester.

Repeating the practicum course requires the completion of an Independent Study course covering previously learned Medical Assistant content outlined by the Program Director and signed and agreed upon by the student.

The student who withdraws from the program and seeks readmission within one year will be evaluated on an individual basis and will be required to demonstrate retention of previously learned skills and knowledge by completion of an Independent Study course or completion of the entire program sequence. The student must follow the readmission policy of the College and the Medical Assistant program.

A readmitted student must have a completed physical examination form including verification of immunization on file with IWIRC before attending lab activities and practicum experience. It is the student’s responsibility to assure that all health requirements are met; in addition, a criminal background check will be required.

Program Forms and Educational Competencies 

Find the Student Withdrawal Follow-Up form (page 20), Student Counseling Session form (page 21), and the Educational Competencies for Medical Assistants (page 22).

Medical Assistant Handbook (PDF)

Health Careers Mission

The mission of the Health Careers Department is to:

1. Enable students to attain knowledge, professional skills, and general education for successful entry-level employment in a health career;
2. Serve as a resource for the educational and employment needs of the health care community.

To fulfill our mission, the Department: 

1. Promotes student access through equal opportunity admission policies;
2. Offers educational opportunities for all students by providing associate degree programs;
3. Provides career advisement and supports career recruitment in the community;
4. Assures quality teaching and learning by meeting professional accreditation standards, promoting faculty continuing education, providing access to current technologies, and participating in continuous outcomes assessment;
5. Provides general education and career education courses in preparation for successful employment and life-long learning;
6. Cooperates with community agencies to offer appropriate practicum and field experiences and to promote safe practices;
7. Offers continuing education opportunities to meet personal and professional goals of updating employment skills and additional specialization.

Health Careers Policies and Protocols

As a HIT student, you are required to complete the following forms in the Health Careers Policies and Protocols document.

• Drug Screening
• Background Check/Fingerprinting 
• Physical Examination And Immunizations
• Health Insurance/Financial Responsibility Waiver
• Student Chemical Impairment Policy And Procedures 
• Communicable Disease Procedure 
• Clinical Blood And Body Fluid Exposure
• Accident/Incident/Injury Reporting Procedure
• Professional Conduct Policy
• Social Networking Policy
• Understanding Of Program Policies

Go to Health Careers Policies and Procedures

Faculty and Staff Information