Program Coordinator: Geri Kale-Smith gkalesmi@harpercollege.edu at 847.925.6444

Frequently Asked Questions

Q:  What is the first step to get into the program?
A:  The first step would be to made an appointment with an academic advisor by calling 847.925.6393 (Room D142) or 847.925-6522 (Room I117). It is important for you to meet with an academic advisor. They will be able to answer questions regarding things such as transferring credit, tuition, and entrance requirements.

Q: When should I meet with the program coordinator?
A: Plan to meet with the program coordinator AFTER you have met with an academic advisor. You should set up an appointment before the end of your first semester.

Medical Office Administration Program Coordinator
Geri Kale-Smith, MS, CMA
847.925.6444
gkalesmi@harpercollege.edu


Q:  Are there any program information sessions that I can attend?
A:  Yes, check the Harper College events calendar for information session dates and times.

Q:  How do I get course information and descriptions?
A:  All this information is listed in the Harper College Catalog. You can also request an information packet from the program coordinator.

Q:  What are the classes I need to take first?
A:  All students in the Medical Office Administration Program are required to take the following:

HSC 112 – Medical Terminology

Depending upon which degree or certificate you choose to pursue, most Medical Office Administration program students are required to take either all or some of the following:

BIO 135- Introduction to Anatomy and Physiology
BIO 136 - Introduction to Human Diseases
MOA 145 – Health Care Records Management
HSC 213 – Health Care Law and Ethics
HSC 100- Computer Usage in Health Care
HSC 151 - Math Applications in Health Care

Consult the program brochure to decide exactly which classes you need to take for your degree or certificate.These are the classes to start with before going on to the core courses.

Q: What if I already have a lot of experience in the health care field? Does that count for anything?
A:  Waivers and course substitutions are made on an individual basis. Exceptions are made only by the program coordinator and require specific permission.

Q: How long does it take to get through the programs?
A: This would depend on when you started and whether you were a full-time or part-time student. Planning sessions should be arranged with the coordinator.

Q: Are there any professional organizations that I can join or contact?
A:  Yes, these organizations are excellent sources of information regarding salaries, job and career outlooks and more. The following organizations are highly recommended to students:

American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA)
800.228.2262
www.aama-ntl.org

American Association of Professional Coders (AAPC)
800.236.2200
www.aapc.com

American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA)
312.233.1100
www.ahima.org

American Association for Medical Transcription (AAMT)
209.527.9620
www.aamt.org

Professional Association of Health Care Office Managers (PAHCOM)
800.451.9311
www.pahcom.com

Q:  Help! I’m over the age of 30/40/50/60. Am I too old to go back to school?
A:  You are never too old to go back to school! These programs are designed for the adult learner who is not generally the “traditional full-time college student.” The majority of students entering these programs are over the age of 30. Many haven’t been to school in 20 or more years. Many are mid-life career changers looking for a new profession. You will be among others with circumstances similar to yours.

Q:  I work fulltime and can only go to school at night/during the day. What can I do?
A:  Although we have many evening classes, some Saturday classes, and some independent study courses in the program, there are some classes that are only offered during the day. The majority of students who work full-time are able to work out some job hours flexibility with their employers. Class days and times are not always the same every semester. There is some flexibility in the order which you take your classes based on individual circumstances. Let the program coordinator know if you have problems scheduling your classes.

Q:  Are there any proficiency tests that I can take instead of certain classes?
A:  Yes, there are some proficiency tests available. To take the test you must contact Geri Kale-Smith, program coordinator, for a permission slip. Proficiency tests are available for:

HSC 100- Computer Usage in Health Care
HSC 112- Medical Terminology
HSC 151- Math Applications in Health Care