Patient Access and Front Desk Certificate

Be the Helpful First Point of Contact for Patients

You play an important role in a doctor's office or clinic. You help make sure patients come in and leave smoothly by answering their questions, sharing important information, and entering their details into the computer.

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Patient Access and Front Desk Certificate at a Glance

Award
Workplace Certificate
Length of Study
4 months
Course Format
Face-to-Face
Classes Meet
Evening
Program Start
Fall

See all the Healthcare Workforce Education Certificate options at Hawkeye

Your Future as a Patient Access Specialist

Patient care representatives provide customer service in a variety of settings including hospitals, clinics, medical offices, dialysis centers, and other healthcare facilities.

Job prospects for this career are rising due to the growth of healthcare access, both in-person and through telehealth services.

Career opportunities include:

  • Medical secretary
  • Medical office specialist
  • Front office coordinator
  • Patient care representative
  • Front desk coordinator
  • Patient service representative
137K+

Job Openings Each Year

45%

Of Receptionist Jobs Are In Healthcare

Program Overview

Be the first point of contact for patients. Gain the skills to succeed in a fast-paced healthcare environment. You have the knowledge to work at the front desk in hospitals, clinics, or doctor's offices, helping patients with appointments, answering questions, and handling important paperwork.

  • Medical Terminology: Understand the language used in healthcare to communicate with doctors and patients.
  • Basic Computer Skills: Master the use of software for scheduling, patient records, and data entry.
  • Insurance Billing: Learn the basics of insurance regulations and how to assist patients with coverage and payments.
  • Medical Coding: Recognize common codes used for billing and patient records.

Participate in clinical simulations and a 4-hour job shadow, giving you a real-world feel for the job.

Basic Life Support for Healthcare Providers: Learn lifesaving skills like CPR and how to use AED.

This program is not eligible for Federal Financial Aid, but other funding options may be available. We'll help you with the options.

Discover your funding options

To enroll in Patient Access and Front Desk Certificate, you must have:

  • A valid, working email address.
  • Basic computer skills.
  • An interest and willingness to work with the public.
  • High school diploma or equivalent.

How to Get Started

Ready to take the next step? Contact a Program Coordinator to learn about the next session or connect with a Pathway Navigator to discuss your goals.

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Program Contacts

Program Coordinator

Brenda Helmuth
319-296-2320 ext.3017
Email Hawkeye Health Education

Pathway Navigator

Kay Wenzel
319-296-4296 ext.3111
Email Kay Wenzel

Business and Community Education Registration

319-296-4290
Email to Register