College of Western Idaho (CWI) is now taking applications for its new Medical Assistant – Credit program, which will start classes in the Spring 2015 semester. The professional-technical program will allow students to earn an Associate of Applied Science degree. CWI is accepting applications through Oct. 10 for 20 students in the first semester.
The College has added the program to meet a growing demand for medical assistants both nationally and in Idaho. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of medical assistants is projected to grow 29 percent from 2012 to 2022. Medical assistants work alongside physicians, primarily in outpatient or ambulatory care facilities, such as medical offices and clinics. They are cross-trained to perform clinical and administrative responsibilities.
CWI has appointed Dr. Tabinda Omair, M.D., as program chair to lead the new Medical Assistant – Credit program. In addition to previously working as a Medical Director in OB/GYN in Pakistan, she has experience teaching medical and nursing programs. Dr. Omair moved to the United States in 1998. She has three children.
Anyone interested in learning more about all of CWI’s Healthcare programs are invited to attend one of the College’s bimonthly Healthcare Information Sessions. A schedule of upcoming information sessions can be found at cwi.edu/events.