Degree Overview: Associate of Arts (A.A.) Degree in Health Unit Coordinating
Majors Overview February 18, 2014Receive information about Associate of Arts (A.A.) degree program in health unit coordinating and its coursework, career choices, and continuing education choices.
A.A. Programs in Health Unit Coordinating
Schools typically offer health unit coordinating associate degrees in an Associate of Applied Science format, but some will offer an Associate of Arts. Students enrolled in the program are taught about coordinating a medical staff to ensure that all involved parties, including patients, understand doctors’ orders. Students examine rules and policies, read medical charts, secure signatures from doctors whenever required, manage telephone calls, and effectively communicate with the whole medical staff team. Students enrolled in health unit coordinating programs are trained in managing the flow of information within the medical team thereby ensuring that the best possible care is given to patients.
Admission criteria typically require applicants to hold a GED certificate or high school diploma. Students enrolled in some schools may, however, be required to pass a physical examination and satisfy minimum keyboarding requirements before being admitted to the program.
Coursework
The focus of coursework in a health unit coordinating programs is typically on imparting knowledge about healthcare information systems to students. Coursework places emphasis on training students to work in a professional setting, in addition to helping students with comprehending the legal regulations and requirements related to the healthcare industry. In the majority of programs, coursework may include a practicum devised to give students real-world training in the field. Coursework may include topic areas such as:
•Pharmacology
•Healthcare computer systems
•Anatomy
•Medical terminology
•Customer service
Career Choices
Those who successfully complete the program may seek employment in various healthcare settings such as clinics, insurance companies, nursing care facilities, and hospitals among others. They may choose from various job titles such as:
•Healthcare business operations specialist
•Health unit clerk
•Healthcare office manager
Continuing Education Choices
Students enrolled in many programs can use the coursework to prepare for certification by the National Association of Health Unit Coordinators (NAHUC). Passage of a certification test will suffice students interested in seeking certification from the NAHUC. Students who wish to pursue continued education in the administration of healthcare systems can earn a Bachelor’s degree in Healthcare Administration.
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