Western Technical College’s Medical Clinical Assistant Program recently celebrated Medical Assistant Recognition Week, from October 15, 2012 through October 19, 2012, as designated by the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA). Medical Assistants across the country were recognized during this special week. In celebration of Medical Assistant Recognition Week, Western Tech planned special events and activities including: spirit, costume, and door decorating contests; a closing day ceremony where several community organizations participated; and students and staff took part in a barbeque on the last day of the weeklong celebration.
Student Services Coordinator Miriam Fonseca says, “Taking the time to celebrate this week is important, because Medical Assistants work in doctor’s offices, hospitals and clinics providing assistance to patients, physicians, and other health care providers. Medical assisting jobs are important as employers utilize the knowledge and skills a medical assistant brings to the facility. Medical Assistants are at the heart of healthcare.”
Approximately $350 was raised by the Medical Clinical Assistant Program Staff to pay for a closing ceremony to finalize many activities held during the week, where community organizations attended such as MADD and the El Paso Fire Department. In addition, the TEAMS committee donated $100 to this effort.
Petra York Medical/Clinical Assistant Program Director for Western Tech says, “ This once a year nationwide recognition is so important to the medical industry, specifically to Medical Assistants as a profession. They are hard workers that play a versatile role in attending to patients and helping out the physicians by working both in front and back office roles.
On October 9, 2012, York, along with Instructors Erica Waymer and Mary Maskill traveled to El Paso City Hall, where Mayor John Cook presented the following proclamation as follows:"
“Whereas, medical assistants are multi-skilled allied health professionals who perform a wide range of administrative and clinical roles with skill, dedication and loyalty; and
Whereas, medical assistants are the central figures in promoting and maintaining cooperative and successful relationships between patients and physicians; and
Whereas, medical assistants are vital members of the health care delivery system; and
Whereas, medical assistants make a substantial contribution to the quality of health care and productivity of our citizens depend upon the effective use of health care resources.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT PROCLAIMED: by the Mayor and Council of the City of El Paso that the week of October 15, 2012 – October 19,2012 shall be known as: Western Technical College Medical Assistants Recognition Week.
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