Allied Health

Assistant Professor of Dental, Deborah Kietzman briefs her class of dental students in the 4th floor Allied Health Dental Lab at the CTC in downtown Fairbanks, Thursday, February 29th, 2024

Community and Technical College
Allied Health
907-455-2800 

Department Overview

The allied health program at the UAF Community & Technical College offers a wide variety of education and training for careers in the fast-growing healthcare industry. Some programs can be completed in one semester, allowing students to obtain entry-level positions. Other programs will take more time and provide the student with the credentials to move into higher-paying careers in health care. All programs include classroom learning and hands-on experience to ensure students receive a well-rounded education. Many programs have a practicum experience in a medical office, dental office, laboratory, or hospital. Allied health faculty work closely with students to match their career goals to education pathways.

Learn more about the Allied Health program, including an overview of the program, career opportunities, and more.


A.A.S., Dental Assistant

The dental assistant certificate and A.A.S. degree programs prepare students to become skilled members of the dental health care team. The duties of the dental assistant are among the most comprehensive and varied in the dental office. Upon completion of the course work, students graduate with either an A.A.S. or certificate in dental assisting and are eligible to take the National Entry Level Dental Assistant (NELDA) Dental Assisting National Board (DANB) examination. Prerequisites are graduation from high school or equivalent (GED) and completion of a dental assisting application form.

Minimum Requirements for Dental Assistant Associate Degree: 60 credits

Each state has its own unique requirements for licensure or certification. If seeking a professional license or certificate in a state other than Alaska, please see the state listings on this page.

A.A.S., Medical Assistant

The Associate of Applied Science degree in medical assisting is a degree completion program designed to provide students the opportunity to build upon the foundation of skills and knowledge developed at the certificate level through the completion of additional allied health and general education coursework. Students can complete the medical assistant A.A.S. in four semesters.

Minimum Requirements for Medical Assistant Associate Degree: 63 credits

Each state has its own unique requirements for licensure or certification. If seeking a professional license or certificate in a state other than Alaska, please see the state listings on this page.

O.E.C., Dental Assistant

The dental assistant occupational endorsement program prepares students for employment as entry-level dental assistants in a general practice dental office. The program covers the dental assisting skills, administrative procedures, professional practices, communication and human relations skills required to assist dental healthcare providers and be a valued dental team member. Students will learn to perform clinical chairside skills, utilize dental materials in chairside and laboratory settings and capture dental radiographs. The program emphasizes infection control procedures, protocols and safety of hazardous materials throughout the program.

Minimum Requirements for Dental Assistant Occupational Endorsement: 16 credits

O.E.C., Medical Assisting

The occupational endorsement program in medical assisting prepares students for employment as entry-level medical assistants in a general medical clinic. The program covers the medical assisting skills, administrative procedures, professional practices, communication and human relations skills required to assist healthcare providers and be a valued healthcare team member. Students will learn to perform administrative and clinical competencies required in a medical office setting. 

Minimum Requirements for Medical Assisting Occupational Endorsement: 13 credits

O.E.C., Medical Billing; O.E.C., Medical Coding

The occupational endorsements in medical billing and medical coding prepare students for employment in medical offices, clinics, hospitals and other medical facilities. Students in the program learn the analysis of medical records and the assigning of codes for indexing diagnoses and procedures to provide information for reimbursement purposes.

Minimum Requirements for Occupational Endorsements: Medical Billing: 12 credits; Medical Coding: 15 credits

O.E.C., Medical Office Reception

Students in the medical office reception program receive education in the theory and skills for both office work and clinical care. Prerequisites for the program include a high school diploma or GED.

Minimum Requirements for Medical Office Reception Occupational Endorsement: 13 credits

O.E.C., Medical Scribe

The Medical Scribe occupational endorsement will prepare students to perform data input related to patient healthcare records for licensed healthcare providers in a wide variety of medical settings (e.g., hospitals, emergency medicine, primary care and urgent care, among many others). Students will be equipped with skills that maximize the efficiency and productivity of clinical care, enabling real-time clinical documentation and workflow efficiencies for their employers. Students will learn skills to maintain comprehensive and accurate electronic health records. They will be prepared to take the necessary certification exam for the Medical Scribe Certification and Aptitude Test (MSCAT) to acquire the Certified Medical Scribe Specialist (CMSS), a certification recognized by the American College of Medical Scribe Specialists.

Minimum Requirements for Medical Scribe Occupational Endorsement: 17 credits

O.E.C., Nurse Aide

The nurse aide occupational endorsement provides education and training to students in theory and basic nursing skills necessary to become efficient and productive health care team members. Students who successfully complete the program will be prepared to sit for the national nurse aide examination for certification. This program is open to those who can document a high school diploma or GED and 10th-grade reading level by exam, or who have the instructor’s permission. Students must also be in good physical condition (capable of repeatedly lifting 50 pounds) and have the following immunizations: hepatitis B full series, two MMRs, chickenpox vaccine (or titer to prove immunity to MMR/chickenpox) and have a negative PPD for tuberculosis within the past year.

Minimum Requirements for Nurse Aide Occupational Endorsement: 9 credits

Certificate, Dental Assistant

The Dental Assistant Certificate program prepares students to become skilled members of the dental health care team. The duties of the dental assistant are among the most comprehensive and varied in the dental office. Upon completion of the coursework, students graduate with a certificate in dental assisting and are eligible to take the National Entry Level Dental Assistant (NELDA) Dental Assisting National Board (DANB) examination. 

Minimum Requirements for Dental Assistant Certificate: 30 credits

Each state has its own unique requirements for licensure or certification. If seeking a professional license or certificate in a state other than Alaska, please see the state listings on this page.

Certificate, Health Care Reimbursement

The health care reimbursement certificate program prepares students for employment as medical billers and coders in medical offices, clinics, hospitals and other medical facilities. Students in the program learn analysis of medical records and the assigning of codes for indexing diagnoses and procedures to provide information for reimbursement purposes. The occupational endorsements in medical billing and medical coding are part of the Health Care Reimbursement Certificate.

Minimum Requirements for Health Care Reimbursement Certificate: 33 credits

Certificate, Licensed Practical Nurse

The Licensed Practical Nurse program will prepare students to work in healthcare facilities under the supervision of a registered nurse or physician. The curriculum consists of three categories: lecture, skills and clinical hours (hours in a healthcare facility). The combination of the three will provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the role and scope of practice of a professional LPN. This includes the knowledge, skills and hands-on practice in a healthcare facility necessary for a student to not only gain the knowledge and skills needed but the practice required to become an effective member of the healthcare team. Upon successful completion of the program, the LPN graduates will be prepared to pass the NCLEX-PN.

Recommended courses that prepare students for success in the LPN program include HLTH F100, HLTH F110, HLTH F203 and HLTH F208.

Minimum Requirements for Licensed Practical Nurse Certificate: 31 credits

Certificate, Medical Assistant

The medical assistant certificate program prepares students for employment in ambulatory care settings. Students receive education in the theory and skills for office work and clinical care. Prerequisites for the program include a high school diploma or GED and completion of the medical assistant application.

The UAF Community and Technical College medical assistant certificate is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs upon recommendation of the Medical Assisting Education Review Board (MAERB), CAAHEP, 9355 113th N., #7709, Seminole, FL 33775. The medical assistant certificate incorporates both the medical office reception occupational endorsement and the medical/dental reception certificate.

Minimum Requirements for Medical Assistant Certificate: 36 credits

Each state has its own unique requirements for licensure or certification. If seeking a professional license or certificate in a state other than Alaska, please see the state listings on this page.

Certificate, Medical/Dental Reception 

The Medical/Dental Reception Certificate program prepares students for employment in the front office of medical and dental offices. Students receive education in theory and skills for medical office work and clinical care. 

Minimum Requirements for Medical/Dental Reception Certificate: 30 credits

Certificate, Medical Scribe Specialist

The certificate in Medical Scribe Specialist prepares students for employment as members of the healthcare team to provide data collection and input to maintain comprehensive and accurate electronic health records.  Medical scribe specialists work in a variety of healthcare settings such as hospitals, ambulatory settings and in specialties (e.g., primary care, urgent care, internal medicine; ophthalmology, etc.). Students will be equipped with skills that maximize the efficiency and productivity of clinical care, enabling real-time clinical documentation and workflow efficiencies for their employers. They will be prepared to take the Medical Scribe Certification and Aptitude Test (MSCAT) to acquire the Certified Medical Scribe Specialist (CMSS), a certification recognized by the American College of Medical Scribe Specialists.

Minimum Requirements for Medical Scribe Specialist Certificate: 32 credits

Certificate, Pre-Nursing Qualifications

The Allied Health certificate in pre-nursing qualifications is designed to guide students preparing to apply to the University of Alaska Anchorage Bachelor of Science and A.A.S. in nursing. The certificate includes the prerequisite and co-requisite courses for the B.S.N. and A.A.S. in nursing. Admission to this certificate program requires a high school diploma or GED and test scores sufficient for placement into WRTG F111X and MATH F105.

Admission to the UAA School of Nursing program is competitive. While this certificate prepares the student to be highly qualified, it does not guarantee admission to the UAA SON. Before applying to UAA and UAA SON, students must complete a pre-admission nursing exam and are strongly encouraged to work in a clinical practice. Students should work closely with an advisor while completing this certificate to help prepare for admission to UAA SON.

Minimum Requirements for Pre-Nursing Qualifications Certificate: 33 credits

Courses

Dental Assisting (DA)

DA F100      Introduction to Dental Assisting
3 Credits

Offered Fall, Spring and Summer

Introduction to basic concepts of dentistry and the dental assistant role. This includes: dental terminology, patient communication, HIPAA, legal and ethical issues, nutrition, basic anatomy, management of hazardous materials, preparation for patient care, tooth numbering and knowing tooth surfaces, dental charting, pharmacology, basic administrative office duties, and preparing for employment.

Prerequisites: Placement into MATH F055; placement into WRTG F110.

Special Notes: Submission of dental assisting program packet, including documentation of required immunizations.

Lecture + Lab + Other: 3 + 0 + 0

Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus

DA F132      Administrative Procedures for the Dental Assistant
2 Credits

Offered Fall

Administrative responsibilities performed by dental assistants in dental facilities. Includes duties of the office assistant, receptionist or secretary, and insurance coordinator. Focus on reception, telephone procedures, scheduling, public relations, insurance and professionalism.

Prerequisites: High school graduation or GED.

Lecture + Lab + Other: 2 + 0 + 0

Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus

DA F151      Dental Infection Control
2 Credits

Principles and practices of infection control in the dental office. Includes knowledge of disease, microbiology, transmission prevention and methods of compliance with OSHA and CDC regulations. Prepares students for the Dental Assisting National Boards infection control examination.

Lecture + Lab + Other: 2 + 0 + 0

Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus

DA F152      Dental Materials and Applications
4 Credits

Offered Spring and Summer

Physical and chemical properties of restorative dental materials and the application of those materials. Includes properties and manipulation of gypsum material, impression materials and custom trays, basic crown and bridge procedures.

Prerequisites: DA F151 or may be taken concurrently.

Lecture + Lab + Other: 2 + 4 + 0

Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus

DA F153      Anatomy for Dental Assistants
3 Credits

Offered Fall, Spring and Summer

Study of anatomy as it applies to the field of dental assisting. Includes basic body systems and an in-depth examination of dental embryology, histology, morphology and head/neck anatomy.

Lecture + Lab + Other: 3 + 0 + 0

Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus

DA F154      Dental Radiography
3 Credits

Offered Spring

Study of procedures and techniques used to capture radiographic images in dental practices. Introduces radiographic anatomy and radiation physics. Includes safety in exposing, capturing dental radiographs and infection control. Presents hazardous materials handling, equipment operation and maintenance. Prepares students for the Dental Assisting National Board's radiology health and safety examination.

Prerequisites: DA F100.

Lecture + Lab + Other: 2 + 2 + 0

Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus

DA F251      Beginning Chairside for Dental Assistants
4 Credits

Offered Fall, Spring and Summer

Introduction to dental assisting. Beginning skills necessary to function as a chairside dental assistant in a general dentistry practice. Emphasis on developing clinical skills in four-handed dentistry techniques.

Prerequisites: Placement into MATH F055; Placement into WRTG F111X.

Lecture + Lab + Other: 2 + 4 + 0

Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus

DA F252      Advanced Chairside for Dental Assistants
4 Credits

Offered Spring and Summer

Emphasizes advanced dental assisting skills necessary in general dentistry. Includes taking impressions for study models, radiography, matrix assembly, rubber dam application, assisting with the administration of local anesthetics, temporary crowns, oral health and nutrition. Includes introduction to specialty practices.

Prerequisites: DA F251, Department approval.

Special Notes: Dental assistant packet and documentation of all required immunizations will need to be submitted.

Lecture + Lab + Other: 2 + 4 + 0

Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus

DA F253      Clinical Chairside III for Dental Assistants
3 Credits

Offered Spring and Summer

Continued learning in the dental specialties including prosthodontics, endodontics, periodontics, pedodontics, orthodontics, and oral and maxillofacial surgery.

Prerequisites: DA F251; DA F252; permission of program coordinator.

Lecture + Lab + Other: 2 + 2 + 0

Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus

DA F254      Dental Assistant Practicum
4 Credits

Offered Fall, Spring and Summer

Clinical, off-campus course for dental assisting students. Placement in general and specialty dental offices under direct supervision by participating dentist and program faculty. Includes seminars to discuss progress and experiences.

Prerequisites: DA F132; DA F154; DA F152; DA F153; DA F251; DA F252; DA F253; enrollment by special permission only.

Lecture + Lab + Other: 1 + 0 + 20

Grading System: Pass/Fail Grades

Health (HLTH)

HLTH F100      Medical Terminology
3 Credits

Offered Fall, Spring and Summer

Study of medical terminology, including analysis and origin of word roots, prefixes and suffixes. Understanding the word components, students will be able to build, spell and define medical words. Content will be presented by body systems focusing on terms for anatomy, diagnostic, laboratory and medical specialties.

Cross-listed with MA F100.

Special Notes: Includes use of medical dictionary, word pronunciation and abbreviations; designed for health care professionals.

Lecture + Lab + Other: 3 + 0 + 0

Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus

HLTH F105      Introduction to Health Careers
2 Credits

Offered As Demand Warrants

Introduction to health careers and the psychology of patient care. Roles and responsibilities of different members/functional units of the health care team; information on related job and educational opportunities; needs and roles of health providers in rural and urban Alaska settings.

Prerequisites: High school graduation or GED or permission of program coordinator.

Lecture + Lab + Other: 2 + 0 + 0

Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus

HLTH F106      Human Behavior in Health Care      (s)
3 Credits

Offered Fall and Spring

Discussion of general concepts in human behavior and the specialized psychological issues when dealing with patients and loved ones in health care settings. Students perform self-evaluation and survey other cultures to allow examination of perceptions, individual biases, beliefs and their impacts on behavior.

Lecture + Lab + Other: 3 + 0 + 0

Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus

HLTH F107      Nurse Aide Training
9 Credits

Offered Fall, Spring and Summer

Teaches basic nursing skills necessary to assist the nurse as an efficient health care team member. Includes positive communication skills, along with a strong emphasis on personal care of residents' physical and emotional needs in a variety of health care settings. Students are prepared for the National Nurse Aide Examination. Student must be in good physical condition and have documentation of the following immunizations: two varicella, hepatitis B series, two MMRs, two-step PPDs within previous 12 months of the clinical component of class. Students are encouraged to have a titer drawn to prove immunity to the diseases listed above. Other specific immunizations as required by clinical sites.

Prerequisites: High school graduation or GED; placement into MATH F055; placement into WRTG F090.

Lecture + Lab + Other: 5 + 8 + 0

Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus

HLTH F110      Professional Skills for the Workplace
2 Credits

Offered As Demand Warrants

Presents skills to ensure success for the professional administrative assistant, receptionist, medical worker and others. Includes interview skills, business manners, customer service and dressing for success.

Lecture + Lab + Other: 2 + 0 + 0

Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus

HLTH F111      Personal Care Attendant Training
4 Credits

Offered As Demand Warrants

Designed to train personal care attendants in basic care necessary to assist nurses and to be efficient health care team members. Course qualifies students for state certificate of completion as personal care attendants. Eighty-eight (88) hours of class, lab and clinical practice are included. Requires criminal background check.

Prerequisites: Documentation of the following vaccines: Hepatitis B series, two MMRs, two chickenpox and a two-step PPD testing within previous 12 months of the clinical component of the class, Students are encouraged to have a titer drawn to prove immunity for the chickenpox, MMR and hepatitis B; Other immunizations as required by the clinical site; High school graduation or GED; Placement into or completion of MATH F055; Placement into or completion of WRTG F090; Students must be in good physical condition.

Corequisites: AHA BLS provider or healthcare provider CPR card and first aid card.

Lecture + Lab + Other: 2.5 + 3 + 0

Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus

HLTH F113      Personal Care Attendant to Nursing Assistant Bridge
5 Credits

Offered As Demand Warrants

Trains personal care attendants to become nurse assistants. Students build upon basic PCA skills and experience. Provides the additional classroom, laboratory and clinical hours required by the Alaska Board of Nursing for state program approval. Prepares students to sit for the National Nurse Aide Examination.

Prerequisites: HLTH F111; Students must provide documentation of current HLTH F122 card or AHA BLS for healthcare provider CPR card and First Aid card.

Lecture + Lab + Other: 3 + 4 + 0

Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus

HLTH F114      Fundamentals of Anatomy and Physiology
4 Credits

Offered Fall, Spring and Summer

Provides a basic understanding of human anatomy and physiology. Recommended for individuals interested in health careers or students desiring an introduction to anatomy and physiology prior to taking in-depth course work in this field.

Recommended: HLTH F100 or MA F100; high school biology and chemistry.

Cross-listed with MA F114.

Special Notes: Students should take HLTH F114 if they took HLTH F100, and MA F114 if they took MA F100.

Lecture + Lab + Other: 4 + 0 + 0

Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus

HLTH F116      Mathematics in Health Care
3 Credits

Offered Fall, Spring and Summer

Practical application of mathematics in health care, including arithmetic review, percentages, interest, ratio, proportion, dimensional analysis, metric system, medication calculation, graphs, charts and measurement instruments.

Prerequisites: MATH F054; or placement in MATH F055.

Lecture + Lab + Other: 3 + 0 + 0

Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus

HLTH F118      Medical Law and Ethics
2 Credits

Offered As Demand Warrants

In-depth coverage of legal and ethical issues encountered in health care settings. Students will gain a practical knowledge of legal and ethical principles and application of these principles in health care settings.

Lecture + Lab + Other: 2 + 0 + 0

Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus

HLTH F122      First Aid and CPR for the Health Care Provider
0 Credit

Offered Fall, Spring and Summer

This course meets the needs of the students entering healthcare professions. The course includes AHA First Aid and BLS CPR for the Healthcare Provider. Instructors follow the American Heart Association’s curriculum. Successful completion of the course leads to certification in first aid and basic life support for healthcare providers.

Lecture + Lab + Other: 0 + 0 + 0

Grading System: Pass/Fail Grades

Repeatable for Credit: May be taken unlimited times for up to unlimited credits

HLTH F124      Introduction to Medical Scribe Specialist
2 Credits

Offered Fall, Spring and Summer

Introduction to duties and responsibilities included in the scope of practice of the Medical Scribe in a variety of healthcare settings. Students will learn the expectations of providers when working with patients in “real time.” Practice communication and interactions with providers, patients and families. Students will practice scribing using scenarios.

Prerequisites: Placement into WRTG F110; ALEKS: Placement into or completion of MATH F055 or HLTH F116.

Recommended: HLTH F100.

Lecture + Lab + Other: 2 + 0 + 0

Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus

HLTH F126      Administrative Procedures for the Healthcare Worker
3 Credits

Offered Fall, Spring and Summer

Introduction to the responsibilities and duties required of medical office assistants and scribes in a variety of healthcare settings. Focus is on reception, scheduling of appointments, insurance, billing and coding, ethical and legal responsibilities, electronic health records, public relations, professionalism and working with the healthcare team.

Prerequisites: Placement into WRTG F110; Placement into MATH F055 or HLTH F116.

Lecture + Lab + Other: 3 + 0 + 0

Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus

HLTH F130      Medical Office Technology
3 Credits

Offered Fall and Spring

Introduces current and potential health care workers to computers in the medical office. Will study medical office management software and electronic health record systems. Includes discussion of computer hardware and software, working with operating systems, keyboarding, word processing, spreadsheets, presentation creation and formatting, and database concepts.

Special Notes: Special fees may apply.

Lecture + Lab + Other: 3 + 0 + 0

Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus

HLTH F132      Administrative Procedures I
2 Credits

Offered As Demand Warrants

Administrative responsibilities performed by medical/dental assistants and other health care providers in outpatient facilities. Includes duties of the office assistant, receptionist or secretary. Focus on reception, telephone procedures, public relations and professionalism.

Prerequisites: High school graduation or GED.

Lecture + Lab + Other: 2 + 0 + 0

Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus

HLTH F135      ICD-10-CM Coding
3 Credits

Offered As Demand Warrants

In-depth study of the International Classification of Diseases (ICD), designed for classification of patient morbidity and mortality information for statistical purposes and for the indexing of health records for the health care profession.

Recommended: HLTH F100.

Lecture + Lab + Other: 3 + 0 + 0

Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus

HLTH F203      Science of Nutrition
3 Credits

Offered Fall, Spring and Summer

Introduction to the principles of nutrition and its relationship to the life cycle. Focus on the importance nutrition plays in personal health and how to objectively evaluate nutritional intake using scientifically sound resources.

Lecture + Lab + Other: 3 + 0 + 0

Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus

HLTH F207      Certified Nurse Medication Aide
6 Credits

Offered As Demand Warrants

Basic pharmacology and medication administration for certified nurse aides and personal care attendants. Includes drug delivery routes, classifications, effects and side effects. Communication principles, ethics, nursing process, and body structure and function will be reviewed. Course prepares students to assist the nurse to pass medications in health care settings. Other vaccines may be required by the clinical site. Must have a current AHA BLS healthcare provider CPR and first aid card. Must be physically capable of performing "hands on" care to residents such as, repositioning, lifting, transferring, dressing, all of which require repetitive motion throughout a work day.

Prerequisites: Current license as a CNA or PCA by the State of Alaska, have at least one full year of experience as a CNA/PCA, supply three letters of reference from healthcare professionals; Placement into MATH F055; Placement into WRTG F110; be 18 years of age or older; Documentation of vaccines or titer for the following: Hepatitis B series, two MMRs, two chickenpox and a 2-step PPD test within previous 12 months of the clinical component of the class.

Lecture + Lab + Other: 4 + 4 + 0

Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus

HLTH F208      Human Diseases
3 Credits

Offered Fall, Spring and Summer

Introduction to the study of human diseases. Pathogenesis, etiology and predisposing factors will be examined. Common diseases and disorders of each body system are presented along with a review of the pertinent anatomy and physiology. Includes the effects of aging on the systems and the relation of aging to disease.

Prerequisites: HLTH F100 with a C or higher.

Lecture + Lab + Other: 3 + 0 + 0

Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus

HLTH F234      Administrative Procedures II
4 Credits

Offered As Demand Warrants

Office management and financial procedures used in medical offices. Includes medical financial recordkeeping systems and computerized office management systems. Includes ICD-9, CPT coding system, patient insurance billing/reimbursement procedures, the demonstration of computational skills in accounts payable/accounts receivable, and office management in the health care setting.

Prerequisites: CIOS F150; HLTH F100; HLTH F132; placement in WRTG F111X.

Lecture + Lab + Other: 3 + 2 + 0

Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus

HLTH F235      Medical Coding
4 Credits

Offered As Demand Warrants

The current procedural terminology (CPT) and the international classification of diseases (ICD) systems used in the medical setting. Examines the medical and legal uses of the CPT and ICT code systems in inpatient and outpatient medical settings, urgent care settings, billing departments and ancillary medical professions. Prepares students to take national certification exams.

Recommended: HLTH F100; HLTH F132; HLTH F208; HLTH F234.

Lecture + Lab + Other: 4 + 0 + 0

Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus

HLTH F236      Outpatient Health Care Reimbursement
3 Credits

Offered Fall, Spring and Summer

Outpatient reimbursement issues including documentation, insurance carriers, schedules and payment profiles. Collection strategies and legal issues, and the importance of educating the patient to the financial policies of the practice.

Prerequisites: HLTH F126 or MA F144.

Lecture + Lab + Other: 3 + 0 + 0

Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus

HLTH F237      Inpatient Health Care Reimbursement
3 Credits

Offered As Demand Warrants

Rules and regulations governing the reimbursement of inpatient and hospital coding. Includes HIPAA regulations, Medicare, Medicaid, third party billing, and the legal and ethical guidelines of inpatient billing.

Prerequisites: HLTH F132; HLTH F135; HLTH F234.

Lecture + Lab + Other: 3 + 0 + 0

Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus

HLTH F238      Medical Coding I
3 Credits

Offered Fall and Spring

Introduction to clinical classification systems including Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) and International Classification of Diseases (ICD) including interpretation of guidelines and official resources, and correct application, in the inpatient, outpatient, and professional fee coding settings. Combined with Medical Coding II, this course prepares students to take national certification examinations.

Prerequisites: HLTH F100; HLTH F114.

Recommended: HLTH F126; HLTH F208.

Lecture + Lab + Other: 3 + 0 + 0

Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus

HLTH F239      Medical Coding II
3 Credits

Offered Fall and Spring

Indepth examination of correct application of clinical classification systems including Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) and International Classification of Diseases (ICD), including principles of confidentiality, coding ethics, and electronic systems for accurate code assignment. Combined with Medical Coding I, this course prepares student to take national certification examinations.

Prerequisites: HLTH F238.

Lecture + Lab + Other: 3 + 0 + 0

Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus

HLTH F255      Phlebotomy Principles, Methods and Externship
5 Credits

Offered Fall and Spring

This comprehensive lecture, lab and 100-hour externship course provides information covering phlebotomy technique, anatomy and physiology, venipuncture and lab testing. Specimen collection and proper handling are essential to completing this course. This course prepares students to take a national phlebotomy certification examination by the American Society of Clinical Pathologists.

Prerequisites: HLTH F122 or AHA BLS for healthcare provider CPR card and First Aid card; Placement into MATH F055; Placement into WRTG F090; Documentation of positive antibody titer for hepatitis B, current immunizations or titers to measles, mumps, rubella, varicella, flu shot and a 2-step PPD within the past year; Other specific immunizations as required by the externship sites.

Lecture + Lab + Other: 2 + 1 + 7

Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus

HLTH F260      Medical Scribe Specialist Practicum
2 Credits

Offered As Demand Warrants

Course provides 80 hours of hands on experiences as a Medical Scribe in a Healthcare facility. Students will be working side by side with an employee of the practicum site. Additional time is required for weekly meetings with the faculty practicum coordinators. This is the last course in the Medical Scribe Specialist Occupational Endorsement.

Prerequisites: HLTH F100; HLTH F114; HLTH F124; HLTH F126; HLTH F130; HLTH F235; MA F247; Enrollment is by special permission only; Immunizations as outlined in the MS packet: Hepatitis B series of three, MMR X's 2, Varicella X's 2, two step PPD; Documentation of current BLS Healthcare Provider/First Aid cards.

Lecture + Lab + Other: 0 + 0 + 6

Grading System: Pass/Fail Grades

HLTH F261      Medical/Dental Office Reception Practicum
2 Credits

Offered As Demand Warrants

Provides students with 80 practicum hours in a medical or dental front office. With additional time required for meeting with the campus practicum coordinator. Students will be expected to perform any and all duties of a receptionist in a medical/dental care setting.

Prerequisites: HLTH F122; enrollment by special permission only.

Recommended: Students taking MA F261 should have passed MA F144, and students taking HLTH F261 should have passed HLTH F132 and HLTH F234.

Cross-listed with MA F261.

Special Notes: Students part of the Medical Assisting program should take the HLTH F261 section of this course.

Lecture + Lab + Other: 0 + 0 + 6

Grading System: Pass/Fail Grades

Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)

LPN F100      Foundations of the Professional Licensed Practical Nurse
3 Credits

Offered Fall and Spring

Teaches fundamental nursing and clinical practices essential to providing quality care for patients across the lifespan. Includes an introduction to nursing interventions and nursing care across the lifespan. Students will learn, apply and practice concepts such as HIPAA, scope of practice, the nursing process and infection control.

Prerequisites: HLTH F114 (may be taken concurrently); placement in WRTG F111X; placement into MATH F105; admittance to the LPN program of study.

Co-requisites: LPN F102.

Lecture + Lab + Other: 6 + 0 + 0

Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus

LPN F102      Licensed Practical Nurse Skills I
3 Credits

Offered Fall and Spring

Teaches fundamental nursing skills required of a professional Licensed Practical Nurse. Students will develop proficiency through the practice of skills related to communication techniques, physical assessments, ambulatory care, the nursing process, documentation, medication administration and dosage calculation.

Prerequisites: HLTH F114 (may be taken concurrently); placement in WRTG F111X; placement into MATH F105; admittance to the LPN program of study.

Co-requisites: LPN F100.

Lecture + Lab + Other: 0 + 14 + 0

Grading System: Pass/Fail Grades

LPN F120      Licensed Practical Nurse Clinical I
2 Credits

Offered Fall and Spring

Provides 84 hours of hands-on experience in a healthcare facility. Students will be expected to perform skills and procedures learned in LPN F102 and within the scope of LPN practice. Additional time is required for meetings with an instructor. Students do not receive compensation for clinical experiences.

Prerequisites: HLTH F114; LPN F100; LPN F102 (all may be taken concurrently); placement in WRTG F111X; placement into MATH F105; admittance to the LPN program of study.

Lecture + Lab + Other: 0 + 0 + 10

Grading System: Pass/Fail Grades

LPN F140      Nursing Across the Lifespan for the Licensed Practical Nurse
3 Credits

Offered Spring and Summer

Introduces pathophysiological processes that contribute to different disease states across the lifespan and human responses to those processes. Continued integration and application of the nursing process and pharmacological therapies while reinforcing the LPN scope of practice. Includes topics related to nursing care across the lifespan, medical-surgical nursing and maternal/child health.

Prerequisites: LPN F100; LPN F102; LPN F120.

Co-requisites: LPN F142; LPN F248.

Lecture + Lab + Other: 7 + 0 + 0

Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus

LPN F142      Licensed Practical Nurse Skills II
2 Credits

Offered Spring and Summer

Teaches clinical nursing skills related to assessment, communication and care of individuals throughout the lifespan who need health maintenance and who have chronic/complex diseases. Mastery of skills that will be assessed include asepsis, wound care, foley catheter care and focus assessment.

Prerequisites: LPN F100; LPN F102; LPN F120.

Co-requisites: LPN F140; LPN F248.

Lecture + Lab + Other: 0 + 14 + 0

Grading System: Pass/Fail Grades

LPN F160      Licensed Practical Nurse Clinical II
3 Credits

Offered Spring and Summer

Provides 112 hours of hands-on experience in a healthcare facility. Students will be expected to perform skills and procedures learned in LPN F102 and LPN F142 and within the scope of LPN practice. Additional time is required for meetings with instructors. Students do not receive compensation for clinical experiences.

Prerequisites: LPN F140; LPN F142; LPN F248 (all may be taken concurrently).

Lecture + Lab + Other: 0 + 0 + 14

Grading System: Pass/Fail Grades

LPN F180      Leadership, Delegation & Scope of Practice for the Licensed Practical Nurse
3 Credits

Offered Fall and Summer

Teaches the important roles the LPN plays in leadership, delegation, supervision and quality improvement. This final course of the LPN program will allow the student to compile previous learning, and begin to build a comprehensive nursing practice within the scope of the LPN.

Prerequisites: LPN F140; LPN F142; LPN F160; LPN F248.

Co-requisites: LPN F182.

Lecture + Lab + Other: 7 + 0 + 0

Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus

LPN F182      Licensed Practical Nurse Skills III
2 Credits

Offered Fall and Summer

Students will incorporate previously learned skills to form a comprehensive and appropriate approach to patient care within the LPN scope of practice. While demonstrating previously learned skills, students will be taught how to incorporate delegation and leadership into clinical scenarios for a well-rounded practice.

Prerequisites: LPN F140; LPN F142; LPN F160; LPN F248.

Co-requisites: LPN F180.

Lecture + Lab + Other: 0 + 8 + 0

Grading System: Pass/Fail Grades

LPN F190      Licensed Practical Nurse Clinical III
3 Credits

Offered Fall and Summer

Provides hands-on experience in a healthcare facility. Students will be expected to perform skills and procedures learned in LPN F102 and LPN F142 and within the scope of LPN practice. Additional time is required for meetings with the instructor. Students do not receive compensation for clinical experiences.

Prerequisites: LPN F180; LPN F182 (both may be taken concurrently).

Lecture + Lab + Other: 0 + 0 + 15

Grading System: Pass/Fail Grades

LPN F248      Pharmacology for the Licensed Practical Nurse
3 Credits

Offered Fall and Summer

Introduction to the use of therapeutic medications in medical settings. Includes classifications of drugs, pharmacodynamics, clinical applications and adverse effects of the most commonly prescribed medications. Practical concepts including dosage forms and routes of administration are presented utilizing a body system approach.

Prerequisites: HLTH F100 or MA F100; BIOL F100X, HLTH F114 or MA F114.

Co-requisites: LPN F140; LPN F142; LPN F160.

Lecture + Lab + Other: 4 + 0 + 0

Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus

Medical Assisting (MA)

MA F100      Medical Terminology
3 Credits

Offered Fall, Spring and Summer

Study of medical terminology, including analysis and origin of word roots, prefixes and suffixes. Understanding the word components, students will be able to build, spell and define medical words. Content will be presented by body systems focusing on terms for anatomy, diagnostic, laboratory and medical specialties.

Cross-listed with HLTH F100.

Special Notes: Includes use of medical dictionary, word pronunciation and abbreviations; designed for health care professionals.

Lecture + Lab + Other: 3 + 0 + 0

Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus

MA F114      Fundamentals of Anatomy and Physiology
4 Credits

Offered Fall, Spring and Summer

Provides a basic understanding of human anatomy and physiology. Recommended for individuals interested in health careers or students desiring an introduction to anatomy and physiology prior to taking in-depth course work in this field.

Recommended: HLTH F100 or MA F100; high school biology and chemistry.

Cross-listed with HLTH F114.

Special Notes: Students should take HLTH F114 if they took HLTH F100, and MA F114 if they took MA F100.

Lecture + Lab + Other: 4 + 0 + 0

Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus

MA F142      Clinical Procedures I
4 Credits

Offered Fall and Spring

Introduction to the theoretical basis and performance competencies for the clinical duties performed by medical assistants in outpatient facilities. Includes care of patients in the examining room, use and care of medical instruments and supplies, assisting physicians with clinical procedures, administering medications, and introduction to clinical laboratory procedures.

Prerequisites: MA F100; MA F114; HLTH F116; HLTH F122 or current AHA BLS for Health Care Provider CPR and First Aid card; documentation of positive antibody titer or immunizations for Hepatitis B, two MMRs, two varicella and negative 2-step PPD within the past year; other specific immunizations as required by externship sites; departmental approval required.

Lecture + Lab + Other: 3 + 2 + 0

Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus

MA F144      Administrative Procedures for the Medical Assistant
5 Credits

Offered Fall and Spring

This is an in-depth examination of office duties, including: reception, telephone procedures, public relations, professionalism, medical practice and financial management in the health care setting. Also includes written communications, EHR, HIPAA, and billing and coding procedures. The importance of accuracy and attention to detail is emphasized.

Prerequisites: MA F100, MA F114, HLTH F116, WRTG F111X.

Lecture + Lab + Other: 5 + 0 + 0

Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus

MA F244      Clinical Procedures II
4 Credits

Offered Fall and Spring

Theoretical basis and performance competencies for the clinical duties performed by medical assistants in outpatient facilities. Includes urinalysis, electrocardiograph, subcutaneous and intramuscular injections, routine laboratory procedures, venipuncture, emergencies, and assisting with specialty examinations.

Prerequisites: MA F100; MA F114 (preferred) or BIOL F100X; HLTH F116; MA F142; HLTH F122 or current AHA BLS for healthcare provider CPR and First Aid card; documentation of current immunizations or titers for hepatitis B, measles, mumps, rubella and varicella; flu shot and two 2-step PPDs within the past year; other specific immunizations as required by externship sites; departmental approval.

Lecture + Lab + Other: 3 + 2 + 0

Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus

MA F247      Introduction to Pharmacology
3 Credits

Offered Fall, Spring and Summer

Introduction to the use of therapeutic medications in medical settings. Includes classifications of drugs, clinical use and adverse effects of the 50 most commonly prescribed medications.

Prerequisites: MA F100; MA F114 or BIOL F100X.

Lecture + Lab + Other: 3 + 0 + 0

Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus

MA F261      Medical/Dental Office Reception Practicum
2 Credits

Offered As Demand Warrants

Provides students with 80 practicum hours in a medical or dental front office. With additional time required for meeting with the campus practicum coordinator. Students will be expected to perform any and all duties of a receptionist in a medical/dental care setting.

Prerequisites: HLTH F122; enrollment by special permission only.

Recommended: Students taking HLTH F261 should have passed MA F144, and students taking HLTH F261 should have passed HLTH F132 and HLTH F234.

Cross-listed with HLTH F261.

Special Notes: Students part of the Medical Assisting program should take the HLTH F261 section of this course.

Lecture + Lab + Other: 0 + 0 + 6

Grading System: Pass/Fail Grades

MA F267      Medical Assisting Practicum Completion
2-4 Credits

Offered As Demand Warrants

Provides 100 hours hands on experience in back office of outpatient healthcare facility for Medical assisting students. Additional contact time required for meeting with instructor. MA F267 combined with MA F261 provides experience equivalent to that in MA F268 and satisfies the practicum requirement for the medical assistant programs.

Prerequisites: HLTH F122; MA F100; MA F114; MA F142; MA F144; MA F244; MA F247; enrollment by special permission only; completion of all Medical Assisting program courses with a C or better in each class; departmental approval.

Lecture + Lab + Other: 0 + 0 + 8

Grading System: Pass/Fail Grades

Repeatable for Credit: May be taken 1 time for up to 4 credits

MA F268      Medical Assisting Practicum
4 Credits

Offered Fall, Spring and Summer

Provides 180 hours of hands-on experience in an outpatient healthcare facility. Students will gain both front office and back office experience. Additional time required for meeting with the instructor. Students will not receive compensation for practicum. Students will be expected to perform procedures learned throughout the medical assisting curriculum.

Prerequisites: HLTH F116; HLTH F122; MA F100; MA F114; MA F142; MA F144; MA F244; MA F247; WRTG F111X; documentation of positive antibody titer or immunizations for Hepatitis B, two MMRs, two varicella and negative 2-step PPD within the past year; other specific immunizations as required by externship sites; departmental approval required.

Special Notes: This is the last course in the Medical Assisting Certificate degree program; all courses required for the certificate program must be completed prior to enrolling.

Lecture + Lab + Other: 0 + 0 + 12

Grading System: Pass/Fail Grades

Faculty

BJ Aldrich

Assistant Professor | Program Advisor
Allied Health Programs

bjaldrich@alaska.edu

907-455-2875
604 Barnette St
UAF CTC


Cynthia Edmonds

Assistant Professor
Allied Health Programs

cmedmonds@alaska.edu

907-455-2999
604 Barnette St
UAF CTC


Zena Kirkland

Assistant Professor | Program Advisor 
Allied Health Programs, Medical Assistant

zkirkland@alaska.edu

907-455-2980
604 Barnette St
UAF CTC


Cathy Winfree

Professor | Program Advisor | Program Director
Allied Health Programs, Nurse Aide

cmwinfree@alaska.edu

907-455-2876
604 Barnette St
UAF CTC


Megan Wollitz

Assistant Professor
Allied Health Programs

mawollitz@alaska.edu

907-455-2924
604 Barnette St
UAF CTC