The Certified Clinical Medical Assistant Apprenticeship (CCMA) program at Drexel University is creating exciting opportunities for individuals who are underrepresented in the healthcare field to gain access to quality careers. This innovative program is a collaborative effort between Drexel University’s Office of University and Community Partnerships, the Goodwin College of Professional Studies, the College of Medicine, and the College of Nursing and Health Professions, along with external industry partners.
The CCMA Apprenticeship program offers a unique combination of hands-on training and academic coursework. Sixteen apprentices have been hired by Esperanza Healthcare, Jefferson Hospital, and Nemours Children’s Hospitals to work in their respective fields while also taking classes at Drexel University. This inaugural cohort of apprentices will have the opportunity to earn family-sustaining wages, industry certifications, and gain valuable workplace skills.
The apprentices in the CCMA program are contracted by healthcare providers to work full-time for one year. During this time, they will complete a combination of online classes through Drexel University, on-the-job training, and in-person clinical training on Drexel’s campus with instructors from the College of Medicine. The goal is to prepare these apprentices to become fully licensed CCMA practitioners by the end of the program.
Upon completion of the program, CCMA apprentices will take a National Healthcareer Association certifying exam to obtain their certification. Additionally, graduates will receive journeyworker papers from the Pennsylvania Department of Labor, validating their completion of the Pennsylvania Registered Apprenticeship Program.
The demand for medical assistants is projected to grow significantly in the coming years, making this apprenticeship program a valuable opportunity for individuals looking to enter the healthcare field. Medical assistants play a crucial role in healthcare facilities, providing essential clinical and administrative support to ensure the smooth operation of healthcare facilities.
The CCMA program at Drexel University is aligned with Pennsylvania’s 2024 High Priority Occupations list, which highlights occupations that are in high demand by employers and offer family-sustaining wages. Certified Clinical Medical Assistants can find employment in a variety of healthcare settings, including clinics, private practices, hospitals, nursing homes, and other healthcare facilities.
Overall, the CCMA program at Drexel University is a valuable opportunity for individuals looking to enter the healthcare field and pursue a rewarding career as a Certified Clinical Medical Assistant. Through a combination of hands-on training, academic coursework, and industry certifications, apprentices in this program are well-prepared to meet the evolving demands of the healthcare industry and make a positive impact on patient care.