Allied Health Professions

In this course, students will gain an overview of health professions and learn the basics of medical terminology, life support, and infection control. Students will also learn directives and guidelines set forth by government agencies for healthcare facilities and professionals. To help students transition successfully into College environment, this course also explores learning strategies such as reading and critical thinking, test-taking, and using computer technology for resources and class assignments.

This course will introduce students to the terminology associated with medical language. To function effectively in the health profession students must understand the structure of medical language, including prefixes, suffixes, root words, and medical abbreviations. Through virtual laboratory assignments, terminology relative to the body systems is presented to help the student understand medical terminology. In addition to studying the medical terminology, the course briefly covers disease processes and treatment modalities such as psychiatry, oncology, radiology, and nuclear medicine. This introductory course provides a basis for a more in-depth study of human anatomy and physiology.

Students are introduced to anatomical structures and physiological function of the human body. This course defines the integumentary, skeletal, muscular, nervous, endocrine, cardiovascular, respiratory, digestive, urinary and reproductive systems. Virtual practical laboratory experiences included in the course provide an understanding of basic anatomy and physiology which is the foundation for a career in health professions.

This course introduces students to the basic skills of counseling and communication, which are the foundation for all professional interactions. Further, students will understand basic psychological defense mechanisms, which show up throughout therapeutic interactions; they will know how to deal with patients who are facing incredible losses, and they will comprehend the significance of human development throughout the lifespan. They will recognize the need to serve special populations and to apply their skills to disease prevention. Additionally, they will learn to work and communicate well within an interdisciplinary team; apply the highest ethical standards of their chosen professions; recognize and respond appropriately to all forms of abuse and discrimination, and address and prevent legal issues. All of the above are placed within a multicultural context allowing the health professional to better reach all patients.