Healthcare Pathway

Instructors: Kimberly Bell, Gail Dutton, Heather Foy

Introduction to Healthcare:

Course Description: Introduction to Healthcare Science is the foundational course for all Health Science pathways and is a prerequisite for all other Healthcare Science pathway courses. This course will enable students to receive initial exposure to the many Healthcare Science careers as well as employability, communication, and technology skills necessary in the healthcare industry. The concepts of human growth and development, interaction with patients and family members, health, wellness, and preventative care are evaluated, as well as the legal, ethical responsibilities of today’s healthcare provider. Fundamental healthcare skills development is initiated including microbiology, basic life support and first aid. This course will provide students with a competitive edge to be the better candidate for either entry into the healthcare global marketplace and/or the post-secondary institution of their choice to continue their education and training. The pre-requisite for this course is advisor approval.

Essentials of Healthcare:

Course Description: Anatomy and Physiology is a vital part of most healthcare post-secondary education programs. The Essentials of Healthcare is a medical-focused anatomy course addressing the physiology of each body system, along with the investigation of common diseases, disorders and emerging diseases. The prevention of disease and the diagnosis and treatment that might be utilized are addressed, along with medical terminology related to each system. This course provides an opportunity to demonstrate technical skills that enforce the goal of helping students make connections between medical procedures and the pathophysiology of diseases and disorders. The pre-requisite for this course is Introduction to Healthcare.

Allied Health & Medicine Course:

Course Description: This course is designed to help students become prepared for the clinical medical assistant certification exam. Topics covered in this course include employability skills, careers, terminology and equipment, safety and compliance, quality assurance, site-specific anatomy, patient preparation for clinical labs, performing of clinical labs, and patient care. During this course, simulated front and back medical office practices, including patient assessment and care will be performed. Upon course completion, students will sit for the Certified Clinical Medical Assistant certification exam.  If both the course and certification exam are passed, students will be awarded the credentials of CCMA upon graduation from West Forsyth High School.  The prerequisites for this course are Introduction to Healthcare and Essentials of Healthcare.