Weeks 1–4
Foundations of Healthcare & Patient Interaction
Build a strong understanding of core healthcare principles, from medical terminology (prefixes, suffixes, root words), Anatomy & physiology (body systems and functions), and to hands-on skills like vital signs (blood pressure, temperature, pulse, respiration). Develop patient communication skills, empathy, and the ability to create a welcoming clinical environment.
Weeks 5–8
Clinical Skills & Diagnostic Procedures
Gain hands-on training in specimen collection (blood draws, finger-stick glucose, urine, stool), injection & vaccine administration, EKGs, pulmonary function tests, nebulizer use, diagnostic prep (X-rays, vision & hearing tests, eye/ear irrigation), minor procedures (laceration care, suturing), and basic pharmacology. You'll learn chart documentation and begin mastering real-world clinical workflows.
Weeks 9–11
Administrative & Technical Readiness
Develop front-office tasks like appointment scheduling, reception, patient intake, EMR usage, insurance processes, and medical coding (ICD, CPT, HCPCS). Understand HIPAA, medical ethics, workplace safety (OSHA, universal precautions), emergency protocols, along with how to support providers in a fast-paced environment.
Weeks 12–13
Externship & Career Preparation
Prepare for your in-person externship by refining your resume, practicing mock interviews, and reviewing key skills. You'll then complete your externship at a local healthcare facility — applying everything you've learned in a real clinical setting.
