Introduction to Medical Assistants Recognition Day
In honor of Medical Assistants Recognition Day, a visit was made to Fortis College Houston South to meet the students and instructors behind a program that is shaping Houston’s future healthcare heroes. The college is dedicated to providing students with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the medical field.
A Realistic Learning Environment
Walking through the halls at Fortis feels a lot like stepping into a working clinic. Students practice drawing blood, taking vital signs, and running EKGs—all in realistic lab settings designed to mirror what they’ll encounter in hospitals and doctors’ offices. This hands-on approach to learning helps students develop the skills and confidence they need to succeed in the medical field.
The Importance of Real-Life Experience
According to Seantenia Lynch, Program Director for the Medical Assistant program, "We like our students to have that real-life experience. They’re not just learning theory—they’re learning how to think critically and handle the situations they’ll face out in the field." Lynch knows firsthand how transformative that training can be—she started her own career as a medical assistant right out of high school.
Career Opportunities for Medical Assistants
Being a medical assistant is incredibly diverse. Students can work in pediatrics, urology, OB-GYN, dermatology, and many other specialties. The program teaches both the clinical and administrative sides of the job, so students have a wide range of options when it comes to choosing a career path. With the skills and knowledge gained through the program, students can pursue a variety of roles in the medical field.
Program Structure and Flexibility
The nine-month hybrid program is designed for real life. Students spend two days a week on campus for hands-on lab work, while completing the rest of their coursework online. This flexible schedule makes it easy for students to balance work or family responsibilities while pursuing their education. The program also includes externships at clinics and medical offices across Houston, giving students valuable real-world experience.
Preparing Students for Success
The goal of the program is to prepare students for success in the medical field. As Lynch said, "We want our students to think of themselves as a brand. When they graduate, they should feel confident, professional, and ready to make a difference." With the skills and knowledge gained through the program, students are well-prepared to pursue a career in the medical field and make a positive impact in their community.
Conclusion
The Medical Assistant program at Fortis College Houston South is dedicated to providing students with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the medical field. With its realistic learning environment, emphasis on real-life experience, and flexible program structure, the college is helping to shape Houston’s future healthcare heroes. By celebrating Medical Assistants Recognition Day, we can appreciate the vital role that medical assistants play in keeping our healthcare system running. For more information about the program, visit fortis.edu or call 855-436-7847.
