Verification of the satisfactory results must be received by the participating hospital prior to the student's rotation start date, and will be honored by all hospitals for the duration of the student's enrollment in the clinical program if the participating student has not had a break in the enrollment at the college. The student is solely responsible for payment of all fees at the time of the screens. All reports and findings from the Background and Drugs screens will be reported directly to El Centro College Health Occupations Administration. The results of the screening can prevent clinical placement. The rationale for the screening is that of due diligence and competency assessment of all individuals whose assignments bring them in contact with patients or employees.
Competency extends beyond technical skills to an individual's criminal and substance abuse history.
This approach ensures uniform compliance with Joint Commission standards pertaining to human resource management. Students will be assigned clinical experience at various clinics and physician's offices in the Dallas area. Those who meet the qualifications of the American Association of Medical Assistants may be certified after passing a written test. Doctors usually consider certified Medical Assistants to be highly qualified. Although certification is not presently required, it may be required in the future as the cost of medical liability insurance increases.