Online Courses in Medical Office Management

Individuals seeking entry-level healthcare employment or wishing to enhance their current medical office skills may benefit from the courses available online. Several 2-year colleges offer certificate and associate degree programs that prepare students for medical office management careers.

Overview of Medical Office Management Courses

The medical office management Associate in Applied Science program is designed to prepare students for entry-level office administration positions within a variety of healthcare settings. Some colleges also offer a 6-month or 1-year certificate program, which include courses in office administration, insurance billing and records management. Students also learn the professional communication skills necessary for interacting with patients and key healthcare personnel.

Course Requirements

Online class participation requires reliable access to an Internet-connected computer, preferably through a high-speed modem. Online students should have basic computer skills, including the ability to manage e-mails, log onto a class website and perform Internet research. Students are able to communicate with instructors and other students through message boards, chat rooms and instant messages. Online courses may require that students have specific computer applications, such as Quicktime or Acrobat Reader.

List of Medical Office Management Courses

Medical Terminology Course

This introduction to medical terminology provides a basic overview of the language and medical concepts used in healthcare settings. Topics include proper pronunciation, word origins, anatomy and spelling. The course gives students a fundamental knowledge of anatomical names, diagnostic terms and medical procedures. It may be a prerequisite for more advanced coursework. Online participation includes logging into a class website, e-mailing assignments, written lectures and timed exams.

Administrative Management Course

This course provides the basic skills needed for medical office administration. Students are expected to develop proficiency in telephone triage, written communication and financial management. Topics may include cultural diversity and stress management. Class participation consists of online lectures, group discussions and e-mail delivery of assignments.

Anatomy and Physiology Course

This introduction to the fundamental workings of the body includes a review of the muscular and skeletal systems, circulation and nerve systems, cell function and physiological makeup. A prior course in high school biology may be a prerequisite. Online activities include specific virtual laboratory assignments, lectures and timed exams.

Medical Billing and Coding Course

Topics for this intermediate course include health insurance and patient billing, ICD-10 coding and collections procedures. Students are required to have previous medical terminology training. Successful course completion enables participants to take the Certified Coding Associate exam offered by the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA) and the Certified Medical Billing and Coding Specialist certification exam offered by the National Healthcareer Association. Installation of special software may be required. Exams and assignments are available via the class website.

Medical Ethics Course

This course reviews the state and federal laws governing medical practice and discusses common ethical issues faced by healthcare professionals. Topics include patient rights, electronic medical records, professional behavior and patient safety. Special emphasis is placed on the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA), which enforces the protection of patients' health information. Students access the class Web portal for lectures, exams and assignments.

Medical Office Communications Course

This course focuses on document creation and records management. Students review the fundamentals of business writing, including grammar, proofreading and punctuation. Course topics include specific information on medical transcription, electronic records and common medical abbreviations. Class participation may require online research, interactive online discussions and e-mailed assignments.