Continuous Learning for Individuals, Management & Business

If you're considering becoming an optometrist, you've likely heard about the American Board of Opticianry (ABO) certification. The ABO is a non-profit organization that administers certification exams for dispensing opticians and contact lens technicians. But do you need an ABO certification to work in optometry? And more importantly, what is an ABO certification? 

For each medical diagnosis, procedure, or office visit, there is a code that is used to tell insurance companies what was done. Specific people at medical facilities are responsible for determining which codes to enter. They are often tasked with related duties as well. These people are commonly referred to as medical coders.

There's no better time to start a career in healthcare. The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that some of the fastest-growing occupations over the next decade will be in the healthcare industry. More specifically, it's anticipated that there will be a 15% jump in medical coding jobs alone.

If you've ever been to the hospital, you've likely dealt with a patient access specialist. Patient access specialists (PAS) are typically the first point of contact. Their job is to help, direct, and comfort the patient. Often, a PAS will be responsible for scheduling, billing, and taking you to your appointment. They are also responsible for calling the insurance company, getting your messages to the doctor, and being there to generally answer any question you may have. Portland Community College is proud to offer training to anyone looking to join the profession.

Clinical Research Assistants (CR Assistants) spend their time performing trials for new treatments, diagnostic devices, and medications. They also work with patients directly in a healthcare atmosphere. They have important responsibilities that include: 

With a background as an optician dating back to his teenage years in his home country of England, Andrew Bruce is highly skilled in the industry and is honored to be a Master Optician. The Optician ABO Test Prep course that he instructs will be his first with Portland Community College. Continue reading to learn more about his experience and passion.

Entry-level healthcare careers help open the doors of opportunity while preparing individuals for the industry. These support roles are instrumental in ensuring clinicians can provide the best care for patients. Our technician programs in pharmacy, phlebotomy and sterile can provide aspiring healthcare professionals with a strong foundation for the future. Here is an overview of each program:

Although hospitals and other medical institutions are heavily associated with nurses and doctors, several other health professionals, such as sterile processing technicians, are critical for delivering quality healthcare to patients in a safe, efficient manner.

PCC's Integrated Community Dental Assisting program (ICDA) has been working hard to help fill the demand for dental assistants in our community. Success and satisfaction has been experienced by the first two cohorts of students, within their externship dental offices and sponsors. We're accepting applicants to our next cohort, beginning with an orientation in January. Keep reading to learn more! 

One of the draws of the healthcare industry as a field of study or practice is the diversity of professions, roles, and work it offers. While not everyone may be attracted to jobs as physicians or nurses, there are numerous other positions that are equally integral to offering quality healthcare services - like a Sterile Processing Technician, for example.