medical administrator roles at St. Louis College of Health Careers

How Has Modern Technology Changed the Medical Office Administrator Role?

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Traditionally, the role of a medical office administrator involved plenty of paperwork and manual record-keeping, along with managing appointments, billing and communicating with patients via phone calls and written correspondence. However, technological advancements in the healthcare industry have led to a significant evolution in these administrative roles. Medical office administrators now rely on electronic health records (EHRs), telemedicine tools and practice management software to streamline their work and improve patient care. As with many other healthcare careers, the role of a medical office administrator continues to evolve. If you have a knack for multitasking in a busy office environment and can adapt quickly to the newest technologies, then a career as a medical office administrator could be a great fit for you. Medical office administrators are often tasked with inputting patient information into electronic health records. Electronic health records (EHRs) are digital versions of a patient’s medical record, containing information such as medical history, diagnoses, medications and lab results. Medical administrators play a crucial role in managing EHRs, as they are responsible for ensuring that patient information is accurate, up to date and secure. Although inputting medical information into the system may be time-consuming, the use of EHRs ultimately makes it easier to access and manage patient records. Healthcare professionals like doctors and nurses can quickly retrieve patient information, track patient progress and have office assistants schedule appointments with greater accuracy and efficiency. Medical administrators play a crucial role in facilitating telemedicine services in medical facilities. Telemedicine, which grew in popularity during the COVID-19 pandemic and has become an important tool for healthcare providers in managing patient care, involves the use of technology to provide healthcare services remotely, such as video consultations with patients or remote monitoring of patient vital signs. Medical administrators can help facilitate the use of telemedicine by coordinating with healthcare providers to set up telemedicine services, educating patients about how to use telemedicine technology, and ensuring that the necessary infrastructure and equipment are in place to support telemedicine consultations. Practice management software is a digital tool that integrates various administrative functions, such as scheduling, billing, patient registration and inventory management into a single platform. Medical administrators are frequently expected to use practice management software to schedule appointments and manage patient records more efficiently, reducing the risk of double booking or missed appointments. They can also use the software to generate reports and analyze data on patient demographics, billing and inventory management, which can help them make informed decisions about resource allocation and operational improvements. Patient portals are an important tool for improving patient engagement and empowering patients to take an active role in their healthcare. Medical administrators can use patient portals to manage patient information and facilitate communication with patients. They can use the portals to update patient records, provide access to test results and medical records and send secure messages to patients. The portals also enable patients to request prescription refills, schedule appointments and complete pre-visit questionnaires, reducing the need for manual administrative tasks. If you’re interested in a rewarding career in healthcare administration, at St. Louis College of Health Careers. Our comprehensive program will provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to succeed in this growing field. With experienced instructors, hands-on learning opportunities and a supportive community, the Medical Office Administration program at St. Louis College of Health Careers is the perfect choice if you’re ready to take the next step in your career. To start your healthcare education, or call us at 866-529-2070 to learn more.

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How to Manage Your Time When It Comes to Work and School

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If you’re a student with many obligations, like working a full-time job or raising children (or both), schoolwork may feel like a dauting and overwhelming task. Luckily, balancing your different responsibilities doesn’t have to be impossible. With a little effort and strategy, you can learn to manage your time more effectively, allowing you to pursue a college degree without sacrificing work or quality time with family and friends. Like many people, you likely own a smartphone, which means you may be taking a lot of time out of your day to check social media, text friends and answer personal phone calls. While interacting with the world is generally a good thing, spending hours scrolling your Facebook and Instagram feeds can take valuable time away from you without providing real fulfillment or helping you meet your goals. If staying off your phone while you’re at work or studying is a challenge, try setting your phone to airplane mode. This will keep your phone offline and prevent you from sending and receiving calls and texts. Even the most hectic and busy day can become easier if you plan it ahead. Your to-do list can be as detailed and fixed or as fluid as you need it to be. The idea here is to be organized and in control of your time, not the other way around. For example, if you plan to study on a day you have to work, you can schedule some time for this either before or after work. However, if you decide at the last minute you’d rather do schoolwork on another day, have some alternatives in place like doing a load of laundry or shopping for groceries. This way you’ll avoid leaving everything for the last minute (which can be overwhelming and affect your productivity). You may have heard successful people are those who can multitask. However, reality shows this couldn’t be further from the truth. Paradoxically, when you try to “do it all,” you end up getting nothing done. As a busy student, you may feel compelled to do a few things at the same time, thinking it’s the smart and efficient thing to do. This is understandable, but keep in mind that trying to “do it all” may result in getting nothing done. shows our brains simply aren’t wired to effectively handle more than one task at a time. So next time you study for a test, read your textbook or work on an assignment, make sure you’re not trying to do something else simultaneously like cook dinner, scroll social media or chat with a friend. Although your significant other and children won’t be able to study for you, there are several other things they can help you with if you feel you’re running out of time. It may be tempting to prove to yourself you can do it all—work, run a home and go to school—but this is often untrue and unnecessary. There’s nothing wrong with asking others for help to free up some time for schoolwork or a well-deserved break. Even the strongest and most organized people will become tired and stressed if they neglect to take time off from their everyday responsibilities. Prioritizing relaxation and self-care when you’re super busy isn’t a luxury—it’s actually necessary if you want to avoid burnout and exhaustion. Taking time off doesn’t have to involve days or weeks of vacation. It can be as little as taking 30 minutes out of your day to go for a walk or meditate. You can also set aside one day in a week that’s completely free from work and study. You can spend this day as you wish and indulge in the things you love, such as spending time with family, taking a road trip or simply binge watching your favorite show. When you enroll at the St. Louis College of Health Careers in Missouri, you automatically gain access to which include several academic resources that can help you balance your studies, work and personal life. Our dedicated academic advisors are here to offer personalized mentorship and academic tools tailored to your unique situation. To explore our diverse healthcare programs, or call 866-529-2070.

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What Is the Role of a Patient Care Technician in a Healthcare Team?

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Are you interested in a career in healthcare, but don’t really want to be subjected to the pressure or life-or-death responsibilities of a doctor or nurse? A career as a patient care technician may be the right fit for you. As a patient care technician, you’ll work under the supervision of a doctor or nurse, aiding patients with their daily tasks and needs. Patient care technicians are generally responsible for helping and tending to patients in various medical settings, such as hospitals, outpatient facilities and doctor’s offices. The responsibilities of a patient care technician revolve around assisting patients with their various needs. While some of these duties are task oriented, like keeping a patient’s room clean, others will require you to possess strong interpersonal skills and a genuine desire to interact and care for people in a vulnerable state. Keep in mind, not every patient and their family will be in a good mood when you interact with them. In fact, it’s likely you’ll be working around irritable and stressed individuals, which demands plenty of patience, compassion and professionalism. As a successful patient care technician, you’ll also need to anticipate your patients’ needs and interpret limited or non-verbal communication. Your patient may not know how to express what’s bothering them. It’ll be up to you to tune into their body language to correctly interpret their behavior and ask probing questions to figure out their needs and provide solutions. If you’re thinking about a career as a patient care technician, think about whether the role is a good fit for your personality and professional goals. The salary for a patient care technician can vary depending on the state you live in, where you’re employed (hospital, nursing home, government agency, outpatient clinic, etc.), your level of education and how much experience you have. On average, a patient care technician currently earn roughly 00 per year, however, the salary range can fall anywhere between $32,000 and $75,000. In St. Louis and greater Missouri, the average salary for a patient care technician is approximately 00 per year, which is only slightly below the national average. To become a patient care technician, you’ll at minimum need a high school diploma and be certified. In Missouri, PCTs can obtain a certification by passing the Certified Nurse Assistant Examination. If you want to become a patient care technician, it’s likely in your best interest to enroll in a program that can prepare you for the CNA exam and provide hands-on training, including an externship. The average length of a PCT program takes anywhere from a few months to a year to complete, depending on your individual pace. You can expect your PCT coursework to be mostly theoretical in the beginning and become more practical as you near program completion. If you’re eager to become a skilled patient care technician but you’re not sure where to start, we have your back. Our accredited PCT program offers comprehensive coursework and plenty of hands-on practice to help you ace your CNA exam and become a successful and sought-after patient care technician. To learn more about our , browse our website or give us a call at 866-529-2070.

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Why Is Understanding Human Biology Important for Healthcare Careers?

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Understanding human biology is fundamental to having a successful healthcare career. Whether you aspire to become a doctor, nurse, physical therapist or medical assistant, you won’t be able to earn a degree without showing competency in your chosen field. Having at least a basic knowledge of human biology may help you more easily grasp diagnostic and treatment concepts that will be relevant in your education and ultimately enable you to make more informed decisions that keep your patients safe. The good news is you don’t have to major in human biology if you want to work in the healthcare field, especially if you’re not particularly interested in spending the better part of a decade pursuing a doctorate. For instance, if your goal is to become a physical therapy assistant, you can enroll in an associate-degree PTA program with coursework focused on aspects of human biology relevant to your profession, such as human anatomy and physiology. Human biology is a branch of biology that is focused on the scientific study of the human organism. Studying human biology sheds light on how our bodies work, how they’ve evolved over time and how we interact with our physical environment. Some medical professionals, especially doctors, need to have a deep and comprehensive understanding of human biology, however those pursuing more focused roles in the medical field like phlebotomy or physical and occupational therapy usually only need to focus on certain aspects of the discipline relevant to their profession. All of these systems work together to ensure the human body works correctly and keeps various diseases and medical conditions at bay. A respiratory therapist works under the supervision of a doctor and treats patients who are having trouble breathing. Their duties include giving patients oxygen, managing ventilators and administering medication to the lungs. To become a respiratory therapist, students must learn different aspects of human biology, with an emphasis on the respiratory and cardiovascular systems. A phlebotomist’s primary job is to draw blood from patients and send it off to medical labs for testing. Most phlebotomy programs include coursework which focuses on exploring the lymphatic and cardiovascular systems. A physical therapy assistant works under the supervision of a physical therapist and treats patients through exercise, massage and stretching. To become a physical therapy assistant, you’ll need to have an in-depth understanding of the skeletal and muscular systems. An occupational therapy assistant works under the supervision of an occupational therapist helping patients regain or develop the ability to perform everyday tasks, such as eating, getting dressed and bathing. Similar to a physical therapy assistant, an occupational therapy assistant must study the skeletal and muscular systems, but also the nervous system. If you’re looking to leap into the ever-growing and ever-evolving field of healthcare, but you’re not sure which career is right for you, consider studying at the St. Louis College of Health Careers. We offer a variety of accredited and flexible that allow you to work at your own pace and gain valuable hands-on experience without spending years in school. Browse the opportunities we offer and reach out to us with any questions you may have by calling 866-529-2070.

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How Does Hands-On Education and Experience Benefit Healthcare Students?

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It’s no secret the duties of most healthcare professionals are largely hands-on. Whether someone is a doctor, nurse, phlebotomist or physical therapist, their primary role is to provide direct patient care in a hospital, doctor’s office or other type of medical setting. Skills like evaluating patients, administering medications, drawing blood and inserting IVs aren’t learned entirely from textbooks. Instead, healthcare students learn and hone these skills by observation and hands-on medical training. If you’re looking to pursue an education in healthcare, expect a significant portion of your studies to consist of hands-on education. Implementing what you’ve learned in the classroom in a clinical setting helps ensure you’re ready to hit the ground running once you graduate and land your first healthcare job. Research shows adults learn quickest from hands-on experience. Formal learning like reading textbooks or attending seminars is still important and likely fundamental to your future job duties. However, to become proficient and able to perform tasks independently, you must put everything you’ve learned into action. For example, if you’re learning a nursing skill, such as how to insert an IV, you’ll likely first learn about IVs as a treatment tool. Once you understand how IVs work and when they’re used in a clinical setting, you’ll move on to putting that knowledge into practice. This is where you’ll be learning by observing your instructor and more experienced students. Lastly and most importantly, you’ll need to practice IV insertion on artificial practice arms and other students. This hands-on practice is where the bulk of the learning will occur. The more you practice, the more versed and confident you’ll be in performing the task. Working in healthcare requires you to think on your feet. Critical thinking and the ability to make quick and accurate decisions can only be developed through practical learning. Hands-on practice in college allows students to experiment, troubleshoot, make mistakes and reflect on them in a safe and supportive environment, in preparation for the fast-paced healthcare career of their choice. Teamwork is a crucial aspect of working in healthcare. Whether you’re a nurse, a medical assistant or a healthcare administrator, you’ll need to build rapport and communicate with your superiors and coworkers to ensure the safety and wellbeing of patients. Hands-on learning helps you work in a team, such as when you’re practicing skills on fellow students or brainstorming ideas when given a group assignment. Learning to work with individuals from all walks of life is necessary if you want to be successful in the healthcare field. Most students enjoy hands-on practice because it’s typically a lot more interesting and exciting than reading or completing written assignments. Practical work can be very engaging as it allows you to apply theoretical knowledge into practice. Once you get the hang of a particular skill, you’ll feel empowered and ready to tackle your next challenge. For some students, hands-on training can bring much-needed insight into the career they’re pursuing. Students who didn’t think they’d faint at the sight of blood or needles may realize the career they’ve chosen isn’t a good fit for them after all. Immersing yourself in clinical studies gives you a glimpse of your future duties and allows you the opportunity to get to know yourself better and change programs if necessary. For example, if you’re studying to become a nurse but are physically unable to draw blood or insert IVs, becoming a may better suit you and your unique talents. At the , we’ll ensure you gain both the theoretical and practical knowledge you need to excel in your future healthcare career. To learn more about our accredited and flexible programs, browse our or call 866-529-2070.

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What Challenges Do Healthcare Administrators Face?

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The U.S. healthcare system continues to face a long list of challenges that have only worsened over the last few years because of the repercussions of the COVID-19 pandemic. Between increasing operating costs, staffing shortages and changes in the delivery of care, leaders in healthcare administration must quickly pivot and adapt if they wish to address the increasingly complex challenges threatening the healthcare system today. With technological advancement and an increase in healthcare services costs, our country’s healthcare system will require highly trained healthcare administrators who are ready to tackle the challenges head on. Medical facilities like hospitals and doctors’ offices need motivated healthcare administrators who possess advanced business skills and understand daily operations. For those who have an interest in making a difference in the healthcare landscape but don’t necessarily want to provide hands-on care, a may be an ideal option. These intellectually stimulating positions aren’t always easy, but they are fulfilling if you possess the necessary critical thinking skills and drive to excel in the field. The current healthcare system would not continue to operate without the focused efforts of healthcare administrators who seek to address problems, pinpoint solutions and improve the industry’s overall climate. While healthcare administration is only one branch of the healthcare system, the value of qualified healthcare administrators continues to rise in medical facilities across the country. Think of healthcare administration as the first line of defense against the many challenges facing the modern healthcare system. Despite the challenges healthcare administrators face, they will continue to be an essential component of the healthcare landscape in the U.S. As more medical professionals retire and new problems arise, an upcoming generation of healthcare administrators will need to carry the torch. Thinking about pursuing a degree in healthcare? At . Earning your bachelor or master in healthcare administration doesn’t have to be inconvenient. From online courses to in-person classes, ask about how SLCHC can help you attain a diploma or degree in healthcare. To learn more, call 866-529-2070 or .

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How Important is Time Management in Nursing and Healthcare Education?

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have some of the most diligent students who are committed to their coursework because they are preparing for a field that requires personal responsibility and dedication. Most nurses work 10- to 12-hour shifts while tending to several patients at one time. In order to provide optimal care to patients and adequately support their team, a nurse must be able to organize priorities and manage their time effectively. Nursing and healthcare schools prepare aspiring nurses and help them enter the workforce by teaching them time management skills and how to efficiently operate on a hospital floor or medical office. As a student, the stress of nursing school can soon become unbearable if you do not carefully implement time management techniques that are designed to keep you accountable. It’s not uncommon for nursing students to focus solely on their coursework and neglect their social life. That’s why time management is so important. It helps ensure that you designate adequate time for work, recreation, self-care and exercise. Realistic, attainable scheduling is a great way to avoid burnout. Your time is valuable. More often than not nursing students feel like there are never enough hours in the day to accomplish their lengthy to-do list. While you might think allotting most of your time to academic tasks will help manage your stress, . Whether you are a naturally organized person who thrives on planning, or you feel restricted by calendars and checklists, establishing time management techniques can help you set healthy (and attainable) goals and boundaries. Keep in mind that a strategy only works if it helps you manage your time well and relieves stress. Some of these time management tips may not work for you like they would for someone else. Be open to trying different strategies until you find what works best for you. The first step to creating a healthy, realistic routine as a nursing student is understanding your needs both physically and mentally. Whether that’s getting up earlier to make yourself a nutritious breakfast or participating in a yoga class, don’t forget to take care of yourself amidst all the demands of nursing school. Before you go to work, class or clinicals, make a to-do list so you are clear on the amount of time you’ll need to accomplish those tasks. This will help you feel prepared for what’s ahead while setting clear expectations for yourself on what is attainable that day or week. You can look at an entire month, week or day depending on how you digest your workload best. Chances are the farther you look ahead, the more prepared you will feel. You can make a detailed priority list and devise a step-by-step plan of how to accomplish it, but if you’re not flexible enough to roll with potential setbacks or roadblocks, you might find it difficult to check anything off your to-do list. In nursing school (and in life), you will encounter unexpected problems that may try to derail you — the key is to anticipate them and learn how to react during those times. Don’t be afraid to move incomplete tasks to tomorrow’s list and always communicate with your professors if an unavoidable situation arises. Nurses face problem-solving challenges every single day. Think of your time at school as practice for your future. If you have an interest in pursuing a career as a nurse or medical professional, may be a great choice for you. Our instructors and administrators understand what it takes to earn a healthcare degree or diploma. We work closely with our students to ensure they feel supported and confident in their courses while maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Our various diploma and degree programs offer flexibility and convenience for students in Missouri and beyond who wish to become a nurse, . For additional information about our programs, call 866-529-2070 or .

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What Role Does Occupational Therapy Play in the Mental Health Setting?

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. An occupational therapist evaluates a patient’s performance skills, habits, routines and more to understand any barriers that may hinder their ability to participate in vital, daily life activities. They then help the patient overcome those challenges in a variety of creative and effective ways. It is important to recognize that the role of an occupational therapist is not to simply keep patients busy as a distraction but to tailor a patient’s treatment specifically to fit their needs, preferences and goals. This allows an occupational therapist and their to be more creative with their approach and discover new ways of improving a patient’s day-to-day life. Occupational therapy seeks to provide that take into account a patient’s overall health and well-being to promote a healthier (and happier) lifestyle. Skilled occupational therapists rely on a variety of evidence-based approaches to help their patients cope and/or recover from physical injuries, mental illness, cognitive impairments, psychosocial dysfunction and developmental or learning disabilities. The detailed inadequacies in the nation’s mental health services and changed the overall landscape of OT, creating a more community-centric approach to treating mental illness. It is an OT and OTA’s job to identify areas that may be hindering a patient’s optimal functioning and implement interventions to address those barriers. To put it simply, occupational therapy is an essential profession in the healthcare space that helps patients with a physical limitation or mental illness develop skills and behavior patterns needed to live a positive and fulfilling life. Students with an interest in supporting a patient’s mental health, independence and wellbeing through various evidence-based implementation techniques may consider pursuing an OTA degree at SLCHC. Our teaches you effective treatment methods for individuals whose quality of life has been impacted by an injury, ailment or disability. As an OTA, you will work closely with an occupational therapist to provide holistic treatments to patients with mental illness. OTA graduates of SLCHC can enter their healthcare career in a variety of settings including nursing homes, rehab centers, government and prison systems, private businesses and more. To learn more about our fully accredited

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How Is Technology Improving the Care LPNs and RNs Provide?

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The advancement of medical technology has enabled nurses to provide optimal care using innovative technologies that are designed to save time, improve patient care and increase overall efficiency. Although some might argue that certain technologies may lead to less of a personal touch, most nurses find that technological advances support their day-to-day responsibilities and further enhance patient interactions. The healthcare industry will continue to evolve as innovative leaders in the medical field change the way nurses, doctors and specialists treat their patients. As a in today’s healthcare landscape, you will be expected to learn and adapt to the various technologies of modern medicine. Many offer an in-depth curriculum that covers a variety of patient care methods and techniques while familiarizing students with the technology found in a hospital or medical office setting. Between automated medication delivery systems to small mobile devices, advancements in nursing technology have touched nearly every task a nurse must learn in order to properly care for their patients. In just four semesters, you can earn your from St. Louis College of Health Careers (SLCHC) and become an ideal candidate for a variety of entry-level nursing positions. Throughout the duration of the program, we will work closely with you to develop the confidence and proficiency required of a nurse to tend to patients of all ages. As a SLCHC graduate, you are eligible to apply to sit for the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) to become an LPN. If you aspire to become an RN and you decide to further your education, our bridge program teaches you how to integrate evidence-based practices into patient care techniques and processes. For additional information about our healthcare programs, call 866-529-2070 or .

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How Can Physical Therapy Help with Arthritis?

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Coping with symptoms of arthritis can be difficult, especially when they prevent a person from participating fully in life. Treatments like physical therapy can help relieve pain and discomfort and increase mobility and physical function. Aside from managing symptoms, physical therapists can educate patients on specific exercises and techniques that enable them to move more freely with less pain. Arthritis reduces a person’s typical range of motion, which can often lead to excruciating pain while walking, running or exercising. Licensed physical therapists are trained healthcare professionals that examine, diagnose, treat or help reduce the severity or progression of medical conditions, including arthritis, that limit a person’s full range of motion. at St. Louis College of Health Career gain valuable experience in helping people cope with all types of mobility limiting conditions and recover from injuries. Earning a PTA Associate of Applied Science can also be a great way to get your foot in the door and earn valuable experience if you desire to move into more focused roles or pursue additional education. Arthritis occurs when one or more joints become tender or swollen, leading to joint pain and stiffness. The most common types of arthritis are osteoarthritis (the wearing and breaking down of joint cartilage) and rheumatoid arthritis (an immune system disease that attacks the joints). Arthritis typically occurs in older adults and symptoms tend to worsen with age. Common symptoms of arthritis include pain, swelling, redness, stiffness and loss of range of motion. Physical therapists that treat arthritis create individualized treatment plans for their patients in order to increase their mobility, strength, balance and coordination. The goal of physical therapy is to introduce methods and techniques that are intended to improve a person’s range of motion and reduce pain or stiffness caused by conditions such as arthritis. Physical therapy generally isn’t like chiropractic adjustments or massage therapy where a patient or customer may see their care provider periodically even if they don’t have a specific ailment, chronic pain condition or acute injury. A physical therapist’s goals vary from patient to patient but may include getting the patient to a point where they’re able to perform various stretches or mobility and strength enhancing exercises without the physical therapist present. The frequency of appointments will often be at the discretion of the physical therapist based on the severity of the patient’s condition and their ability to perform the exercises on their own. Most patients with arthritis will see their physical therapist periodically for follow-ups or to make updates to their treatment plan. It’s not always necessary to schedule a physical therapy appointment every week. The goal is to learn the exercises from a physical therapist and practice them at home. The more a patient with arthritis performs their recommended exercises correctly, the stronger their joints will become and the more they will see their symptoms improve. If you have an interest in working in the healthcare industry and you are passionate about helping others, you may want to consider a career in physical therapy. Completing the can equip students with the knowledge they need to apply and sit for the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy (FSBPT) exam. Passing the exam makes students eligible for licensure as a physical therapist assistant. to join our PTA program or learn more about our various associate and bachelor’s degrees by calling SLCHC at 866-529-2070.

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