Medical Office English Programs: What To Expect

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Medical Office English Programs: What To Expect

15 June 2017
 Categories: Education & Development, Blog


Medical office English programs are intensive courses specifically designed to prepare you for a successful career in the health care industry. These programs are for students around the world who do not speak English as their first language and are interested in learning English in the context of a Medical environment. If you plan to enroll in a medical English program, here's what you can expect:

English in a Medical Environment

One of the courses you can expect to take is designed to provide you with an opportunity to learn English through dialogue, presentations, role plays, public speaking exercises, lectures and other activities. The course will help prepare you for a position in a medical office and help you build the confidence you need for a successful career in health care. 

Introduction to American Health Care

You can typically expect to take a course introducing you to the vocabulary related to American health care and wellness. Some courses combine American and Canadian health care, as there are some key differences between the two. The vocabulary will get you acclimated to the language your clients may use to describe their illness or pain. 

Various Body Systems

You'll also take several courses that progress through various body systems, including the cardiovascular, respiratory, gastrointestinal, neurological, and musculoskeletal systems. You can also expect to cover wounds, as well as viral and bacterial infections. Each course will provide you with the opportunity to learn English medical grammar and practice communicating as you would in a medical office.

Medication and Pharmacology

Another course you can expect to take deals with the language you'll experience when dealing with medication. You learn the actions of the medications, the conditions treated and the general language of English as it relates to pharmacology. You'll practice your skills using a variety of exercises and be able to discuss medications and ask questions. You'll practice transposing medication orders, so that you can successfully do safely, reducing the risk of error. An error in medication transposing can mean life or death for a patient, so prepare for this to be a very intensive English course.

Child Development

Some programs may include a course on child development for individuals interested in working specifically in pediatric medical offices. You'll learn the English language as it relates to the health and wellness of children and child development through all stages. The number of hours needed to earn your Medical Office English Certificate will vary depending on the program. The typical full-time program requires about 240 hours. A GED, Diploma, or equivalent is required to enroll.

Contact companies that offer medical office administration programs for more information and assistance.