To provide the health care community with competent, compassionate individuals prepared through programs dedicated to academic excellence, spiritual growth, and service, with an emphasis on rural populations.
PURPOSE
Nursing (B.S.N.)
The Nursing program is designed to provide a balanced curriculum in nursing and liberal studies that will prepare graduates to function as effective members of the health care team. Its mission is to prepare professional nurses dedicated to academic excellence, spiritual awareness, and the practice of nursing. The B.S.N. program provides students with educational opportunities in a high-quality learning environment that leads to the preparation of competent, caring nursing professionals. The integration of learning with faith and values promotes the students’ intellectual growth and personal development.
Nursing students receive theory instruction in the classroom, skills instruction in the nursing skills lab, and clinical patient care experiences in a variety of acute care and community health care settings. Finlandia University’s Nursing Department works to provide a nurturing, caring community focused on connecting theory and practice to the service of human beings. An active, collaborative partnership among students, educators, and interdisciplinary health care professionals in the rural community is an integral part of the learning experience. The broad theoretical base of knowledge and the high level of clinical competence provide Finlandia Nursing students a foundation for assuming the professional roles of leadership and practice in regional, national, and international health care settings. Nursing program graduates are eligible to write the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) and, upon passing, may practice as registered nurses.
RN-BSN Completion
Additional clinical experiences, and completion of the General Education courses needed for a University Bachelor of Science/Nursing Degree. The program is designed to meet the needs of working nurses, offered either part time or full time, and features online nursing courses to further accommodate the busy schedules of working nurses.
Physical Therapist Assistant (A.A.S.)
The purpose of the Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) program is to give each student the necessary education to become a competent physical therapist assistant. This is achieved through professional education and training using sequential instruction, practical clinical experiences, and development of leadership skills. Emphasized throughout the student experience are problem solving skills, scientific inquiry, ethics, teamwork, and examination of the roles of the physical therapist and the physical therapist assistant and the boundaries between them. Also emphasized is development of professional behaviors that facilitate and enhance positive therapeutic relationships with patients, including respect and sensitivity for ethnic, cultural, and spiritual differences. Qualified clinical sites further support these ideas.
The PTA program faculty members believe learning is a life-long process that requires self-assessment of professional behaviors, clinical skill performance, and service to society. This requires active participation in an open, supportive environment. The faculty demonstrates the attitudes necessary to support individual learning styles, maximizing each student’s potential. Through the competency-based curriculum, the student is given the opportunity to learn the problem solving skills and professional behaviors necessary to become both a critical-thinking PTA and a contributing member of society.
Certified Medical Assistant (A.A.S.)
The primary goal of the Medical Assistant program is to prepare competent entry-level medical assistants in the cognitive (knowledge), psychomotor (skills), and affective (behavior) learning domains. The Certified Medical Assistant program prepares students to assist health care providers in settings including private practice, hospitals, community clinics, and free-standing emergency and surgery centers. The associate of applied science degree program in Certified Medical Assistant provides students with educational opportunities in a quality learning environment that fosters competence, compassion, and dedication to the expectations of their chosen profession. The program integrates learning with the exploration of spirituality and ethics to promote intellectual and personal growth and development. Students actively participate in a competency-based curriculum, both within the classroom and through various clinical sites. Students engage in critical thinking activities, demonstrate cognitive, psychomotor, and affective competencies, and develop professional behaviors. Congruent with the mission of Finlandia University, graduates of the Certified Medical Assistant program are dedicated to excellence, growth, and service in the practice of clinical and administrative medical assisting.
Medical Billing and Coding Specialist (A.A.S.)
The goal of the Medical Billing and Coding Specialist (MBC) program is to provide the student with a thorough understanding of the content of the medical record as well as extensive training in anatomy, physiology, the disease processes, and medical terminology. This program will provide the student with the knowledge and understanding to analyze medical records and assign codes to classify diagnoses and procedures while applying the principles of professional and ethical conduct. The program will prepare the student for an entry-level position as a medical coder in a hospital, clinic, physician’s office, or other healthcare facility. An associate degree in medical billing and coding provides the basic knowledge, skills, and applied studies needed for entry-level positions in the healthcare field.
LEARNING OUTCOMES
Program outcomes within the College of Health Sciences are derived from the Finlandia University core competencies, known as the Finlandia Plan. Graduates of the College of Health Sciences are expected to demonstrate the ability to meet individual program outcomes.
Nursing program competencies are derived from Finlandia University’s assessment plan (core competencies) and the competencies defined by the American Association of Colleges of Nursing in the Essentials of Baccalaureate Education for Professional Nursing Practice. Program competencies serve as the exit outcomes for B.S.N. graduates and are leveled for each academic year within the Nursing major.
The six core competencies for the B.S.N. graduate are:
Communication: The Nursing graduate communicates effectively with persons through the use of verbal and non-verbal skills, written abilities, active listening, and informational technologies.
Analytical and Critical Thinking: The Nursing graduate integrates mathematics, scientific knowledge, and research with nursing practice.
Personal Perspective: The Nursing graduate demonstrates the ability to meet personal needs as a mature, adaptable member within the nursing profession.
Creative Insight: The Nursing graduate demonstrates the ability to think critically and creatively in the identification, analysis, and resolution of problems, issues, truth claims, and ethical issues.
Global Perspective: The Nursing graduate understands and appreciates the humanities, social sciences, and fine arts within a global and multicultural society.
Concentration in Nursing: The Nursing graduate demonstrates the ability and commitment to practice nursing within the roles of provider and manager of care.
The Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) program outcomes integrate Finlandia University’s Institutional Student Learning Outcomes and the performance criteria of the American Physical Therapy Association’s (APTA) Physical Therapist Assistant Clinical Performance Instrument.
Upon successful completion of the PTA program at Finlandia University, the PTA graduate will demonstrate the values and behaviors recognized by the APTA that most influence the PTA in providing safe, effective patient care as a member of the physical therapy team for the following:
PTA Concentration: Possesses the necessary entry-level technical skills to practice as a physical therapist assistant in a variety of practice settings that includes patient populations across the lifespan.
Creative Insight: Integrates knowledge of basic sciences and physical therapy (PT) theory to appropriately apply and modify selected PT procedures to diverse populations under the supervision of a physical therapist.
Communication: Communicates effectively with patients, supervisors, support personnel, and other health care team members using suitable verbal, non-verbal, and written skills. These skills will reflect:
Altruism, integrity, compassion and caring
The importance of PT/PTA collaboration in effective patient care delivery
Analytic and Critical Thinking: Incorporates sound clinical reasoning and problem solving to interpret the plan of care prescribed by the PT.
Personal Perspective: Possesses the necessary professional behaviors to practice as a physical therapist assistant in a variety of practice settings. These professional behaviors include the following:
Commitment to Learning/Use of Constructive Feedback
Interpersonal Skills
Communication Skills
Critical Thinking/Problem-Solving
Stress Management/Effective Use of Time and Resources
Professionalism/Responsibility
Global Perspective: Demonstrates an understanding and appreciation for diverse cultures and individual differences when delivering care to patients and acknowledges social responsibility as a healthcare provider.
Concentration in PTA: Succeeds in qualifying for licensure/certification/registration where required by state law.
The Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) curriculum provides the educational foundation for entry into the practice of medical assisting. The CMA program outcomes integrate the learning outcomes of the Finlandia Plan and the cognitive, psychomotor and affective competencies established by the Medical Assistant Educational Review Board. Upon completion of the program, the CMA graduate will demonstrate the following:
Communication: The CMA graduate communicates effectively with patients, supervisors, support personnel, and other health care team members using suitable verbal, nonverbal, and written skills.
Analytical and Critical Thinking: The CMA graduate applies knowledge of basic sciences and medical theory to the application and appropriate modification of administrative and clinical medical assisting procedures.
Personal Perspective: The CMA graduate possesses the necessary professional behaviors to practice as a medical assistant in a variety of practice settings.
Creative Insight: The CMA graduate utilizes creative insight to make sound administrative and clinical judgments to enhance patient care.
Global Perspective: The CMA graduate delivers patient care in a respectful manner that reflects sensitivity to individual differences.
Concentration in Medical Assisting: The CMA graduate possesses the necessary entry level administrative and clinical skills to practice as a medical assistant in a variety of practice settings.
Concentration in Medical Assisting: The CMA graduate is successful in qualifying for certification/registration.
The Medical Billing and Coding Specialist (MBC) curriculum provides the educational foundation for entry into the field of medical coding within a healthcare organization. The MBC program outcomes integrate the learning outcomes of the Finlandia Plan. Upon completion of the program, the MBC graduate will demonstrate the following:
Communication: The MBC graduate exhibits effective interpersonal written and oral communication skills required for successful performance in the healthcare environment with the ability to read and understand medical documentation, diagnoses, and procedures, and ensure that documentation supports the diagnosis and procedures performed.
Analytical and Critical Thinking: The MBC graduate applies knowledge of medical terminology, the disease process, anatomy and physiology, and pharmacology to analyze medical records and assign codes.
Personal Perspective: The MBC graduate demonstrates personal and social responsibility for the safe and effective delivery of healthcare services; integrates knowledge of ethical and legal responsibilities into the workplace environment of healthcare organizations.
Creative Insight: The MBC graduate will use creative insight, write and speak effectively, use basic computer applications, and understand human behavior in the context of the greater society.
Global Perspective: The MBC graduate delivers quality healthcare in a respectful manner that reflects sensitivity to individual differences.
Concentration in Medical Billing and Coding: The MBC graduate possesses the necessary entry level billing and coding skills to practice as a medical billing and coding specialist in a variety of practice settings.
Concentration in Medical Billing and Coding: The MBC graduate is successful in qualifying for certification/registration.
Accreditation
Nursing (B.S.N.)
The Michigan State Board of Nursing of the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs, Board of Nursing, 611 W. Ottawa Street, P.O. 30670, Lansing, Mich. 48909, (517) 373-7484, approves the Finlandia University Nursing program. The baccalaureate Nursing program at Finlandia University is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), One Dupont Circle, NW, Suite 530, Washington, D.C., 20036, (202) 887-6791.
Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA)
The Physical Therapist Assistant Program at Finlandia University is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE), 1111 North Fairfax Street, Alexandria, Virginia 22314; telephone: (703) 706-3245; email: accreditation@apta.org; website: www.capteonline.org.
Certified Medical Assistant (CMA)
The Finlandia University Medical Assistant Program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs upon the recommendation of the Medical Assisting Education Review Board (MAERB). Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs; 25400 U.S. Highway 19 North, Suite 158; Clearwater, FL 33763; (727) 210-2350.
Program, Progression, and Clinical Practice Requirements
Nursing Department policies are presented in the B.S.N. Student Handbook, which is distributed to students upon entry into the Nursing major in the sophomore year. Students interested in progressing to the Nursing major must file an application of interest with the Nursing Department during February of the academic year preceding entry into the sophomore-level Nursing curriculum. Transfer students are urged to contact the Nursing Department for assistance. A limited number of eligible students are accepted into the Nursing major each fall. If the number of eligible applicants exceeds the number of positions available, the faculty reserves the right to select the applicants based on academic qualifications and performance. The remaining applicants will be placed on a waiting list and are encouraged to re-apply for admission into the Nursing major the following year. Enrollment numbers in the professional Nursing major are based on state regulations for student-to-faculty ratios in the clinical setting and the availability of cooperating health care agencies for clinical placement.
Program Requirements: In addition to meeting the general requirements for admission to Finlandia University, students applying for entry into the sophomore year of the Nursing major must meet the following criteria:
Comply with the health requirements as outlined in the orientation packet distributed upon acceptance to the Nursing major.
Satisfactorily complete, or have reasonable expectations of completing, the freshman curriculum course requirements. A minimum grade of “C” is required for all pre-nursing coursework, with grades of “B-” or better in MAT 140, BIO 171, and BIO 172.
Achieve a pre-nursing cumulative GPA at Finlandia University of 2.85 or better, or receive a GPA of 2.85 or better in pre-nursing coursework at other colleges or universities. Required courses may be repeated only once to be eligible for admission to the Nursing major.
Upon admission to the Nursing major, students are expected to enroll in all Nursing courses in sequence.
Nursing students are expected to pass a criminal history check and a drug/substance use screening prior to starting the clinical rotations. Students with questions regarding the background screening process are encouraged to meet with their advisor.
Students who are denied admission to the Nursing major and wish to re-apply must file an application for re-entry prior to subsequent admission deadlines.
Students progressing to the Nursing major from pre-Nursing will receive an orientation packet in the semester prior to entry. This orientation packet includes information regarding the health requirements, a health history and physical form, immunization history form, uniform information, CPR requirements, and a list of important dates. Much of this information must be compiled and/or completed during the summer prior to starting in the Nursing major. Communications can be directed to the Nursing Office.
The course requirements of the B.S.N. major are rigorous and will require more time and commitment than many other areas of study. In addition to the academic coursework, a clinical component is integrated throughout the final three years of the curriculum. Attendance in both classes and clinical placements is mandatory. Each clinical nursing course requires a minimum of three hours of direct clinical experience per clinical semester credit hour per week; schedules will vary depending on the clinical assignment and/or clinical agency. Additional time is required for travel, clinical preparation, and study prior to and after clinical experiences. To graduate, students accepted into the Nursing major will complete three academic years and one required summer session, providing all courses are taken in sequence and satisfactorily completed.
Participation in the clinical setting requires the following:
Written documentation of a current criminal history check and drug/substance use screening prior to entry into the clinical nursing courses. Information regarding these requirements is provided during the sophomore orientation to the Nursing major.
Submission of the required health forms, including a recent physical examination completed by a licensed health care provider, documentation related to sensitivity or allergy to latex, and a current immunization record for tetanus/diphtheria/pertussis (Tdap), polio, varicella, measles, mumps, and rubella. Proof of immunization for Hepatitis B is recommended; students who do not wish to comply must sign a waiver to decline and a Release of Responsibility form obtained from the Nursing Department.
Proof of varicella immunity is required. Students need to provide either proof of two (2) varicella immunizations or a positive titer.
Yearly documentation of a negative tuberculosis skin-test (2 step) or chest x-ray in accordance with clinical/CDC guidelines.
Evidence of current CPR training for the health care provider. Training must be renewed yearly.
Uniforms and attire that comply with the dress code as outlined in the B.S.N. Student Handbook. Information regarding uniforms is also included in the B.S.N. Student Orientation Packet provided upon acceptance to the Nursing major (sophomore level).
Proof of health insurance is required for entry to the nursing major. Costs associated with health insurance are the responsibility of the student. Finlandia University and its affiliated health care agencies assume no responsibility for injuries or illnesses incurred while performing duties as a student-nurse.
Progression in the Nursing major is contingent on the successful completion of the following:
Students must earn the minimally accepted grade in each Nursing course as outlined in the B.S.N. Student Handbook. Any student not meeting this requirement may not continue in the Nursing sequence and will be required to apply for re-entry the following year. Students are advised to meet with their advisors should this situation arise.
Theory and clinical components must be successfully completed for all clinical courses. Theory and clinical grades are not combined or averaged.
Courses completed with grades below the established requirements must be repeated to become eligible for re-entry into the Nursing major. Failed courses may be repeated only once.
Students must receive a minimum grade of “C” in all non-Nursing courses.
Students must maintain a cumulative GPA of 2.85 or above throughout the Nursing curriculum.
Students whose grades are below the required minimums at mid-term are expected to meet with the instructor, academic advisor, or Nursing Department Chair to discuss strategies for success.
Students must demonstrate professional behaviors and practices consistent with the Standards for Professional Practice as outlined in the B.S.N. Student Handbook.
The instructional design of the RN-to-BSN curriculum is intended to meet the needs of the working, adult learner. Web-based, on-line instructional technologies are utilized in conjunction with a faculty-directed independent study plan to provide the flexibility needed for adult learner success. Students may complete the course requirements full-time or part-time. Full-time, the RN-to-BSN program can be completed in a minimum of four (4) full-time semesters. To receive the B.S.N. degree, program requirements must be completed within seven (7) years.
Degree Requirements: Concordant with the B.S.N. degree, students enrolled in the RN-to-BSN Completion program are required to earn a total of 124 credits, which are achieved through transfer credits, the submission of a professional portfolio, and course completion. To graduate, RN-to-BSN program students must provide evidence of successful completion of the following:
46 credits (to include three credits for one Religion or Finnish Studies elective, 18 credits within the Finlandia Core, of which at least six (6) credits are at the 300-400 academic level);
30 credits for previously acquired clinical coursework;
24 credits for portfolio work (NUR 299), to include proof of an active RN license to practice in the State of Michigan; and
24 credits of BSN coursework at the 300-400 academic level.
In keeping with university policies, students receiving the B.S.N. degree must complete 24 of the final 30 course credits at Finlandia University immediately prior to graduation (the awarding of the new degree), complete at least 30 credits at the 300-400 level at Finlandia University, and meet the General Education requirements as outlined in the Finlandia University academic catalog.
Consistent with B.S.N. program progression policies, RN-to-BSN program students must maintain a minimum GPA of 2.85 throughout the program and receive the minimally accepted grade in each Nursing course. All non-nursing courses must be completed with a minimum grade of “C.”
Entrance Requirements: Students eligible for admission to the RN-to-BSN Completion program must:
Be eligible for admission to the university;
Meet the requirements for the clinical component of the BSN program;
Have graduated from a state-approved nursing program;
Have successfully passed, or have a reasonable expectation of passing, the NCLEX-RN exam prior to entry into NUR 343Z (Transition to Professional Nursing);
Possess an active license to practice nursing as a registered nurse;
Be clear of any limitations to practice nursing;
Possess an active and unencumbered license to practice as a Registered Nurse in a US state.
Have completed all General Education and pre- Nursing courses with a minimum grade of “C”;
Have attained and maintained a college GPA of 2.85 or above; and
Have completed the basic science and math requirements including eight (8) credits of anatomy and physiology, four (4) credits of microbiology, and four (4) credits of intermediate algebra, or their equivalents with the required grade expectations.
Portfolio Requirements: Prior to the start of NUR 343Z (Transition to Professional Nursing), students will prepare a professional portfolio that contains the following documents. A committee comprising of Nursing faculty and the department chair will review each completed portfolio. Approved portfolios will appear on the transcript as NUR 299 (Experiential Portfolio), with 24 credits earned. A full description of the process and required documents will be mailed to students upon admission.
Letter of introduction addressed to faculty committee;
Proof of RN licensure (copy of state-issued license to practice as a registered nurse;
Copy of diploma granted by a State Board-approved diploma or associate degree nursing program;
Curriculum vitae-résumé reflecting work history and professional development;
Two(2) professional letters of reference;
Professional goal statement (see Nursing Department for details); and
Admission essay (see Nursing Department for details).
Progression Criteria: Once admitted into the technical component of the program, students must meet the following requirements to retain their position:
The student must maintain at least a “C” (2.0) in any individual course, but must earn a cumulative GPA of 2.5 in the required General Education course work. The student must have a minimum GPA of a 2.7 (“B-”) in the following courses: BIO 171 and BIO 172. If the requirements are not met, student GPAs will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis each semester to determine if student status remains PTA, or reverts to pre-PTA. Required courses may be repeated only once.
Students must demonstrate professional behaviors and practices consistent with the Professional Behaviors Assessment as outlined in the PTA Student Handbook.
Participation in the clinical setting
In addition to academic course work, clinical education is a significant part of the physical therapist assistant’s education, helping the student apply the learned skills, professional behaviors, and academic knowledge to the practice of physical therapy. The Finlandia University PTA program has a strong clinical education component with an emphasis on rural health care experiences. During clinical education, PTA students complete 14 weeks of full-time clinical experience at three different clinical affiliation sites. Students are required to gain exposure to diverse physical therapy settings, diagnosis groups, and patient populations. To be eligible to participate in clinical education experiences, the student must submit the following:
Submit evidence of current training and certification in American Heart Association-BLS for Healthcare Providers.
Submit evidence of a recently completed physical examination by a physician indicating that the student has no limitations that would interfere with successfully performing PTA interventions required during the PTA program technical phase. The cost of the examination is the responsibility of the student.
Immunizations/Health Tests. The student is required to provide a current record of a negative tuberculosis skin test (2-step test). If a TB test is positive, a negative chest x-ray no older than twelve months is required. Also required is proof of immunization for rubella, rubeola (measles), mumps, and varicella (chicken pox). It is recommended that the student be immunized for Hepatitis B; however, in the event that the student does not want this immunization he/she must sign a Hepatitis B Immunization Information and Release from Responsibility form. Proof of receiving the influenza vaccine is required during flu season (September thru March). Forms are available in the PTA Department office. The cost of these tests is the responsibility of the student.
Health Insurance. During the technical phase of the PTA program, the student is required to provide evidence of basic health insurance. If a student does not have such insurance, the PTA program can recommend short-term policies and provide information from different vendors. The cost of this insurance is the responsibility of the student.
During the clinical education experiences of the “technical phase,” the student may be required to purchase a “lab” coat to be worn during the experience. The cost of one lab coat is approximately $30-$40 and is the student’s responsibility.
A clear criminal background check is required prior to clinical placement for all PTA students.
Medical Assistant program policies are presented in the Medical Assistant Student Handbook distributed to students upon entry into the technical component of the Medical Assistant program. Students who have successfully completed the first year of the Medical Assistant curriculum are required to complete a letter of application for entry to the technical component. A limited number of eligible students are accepted to the technical component each summer, based on available clinical site placements. If the number of eligible applicants exceeds the number of positions available, the faculty reserves the right to select the applicants based on academic qualifications and performance. The remaining applicants will be placed on a waiting list and are encouraged to apply for admission to the Medical Assistant technical component the following year. Transfer students are advised to contact the Medical Assistant program director for assistance planning their academic plans of study.
Progression Criteria: Progression into the technical component (second year) of the Medical Assistant program requires the following:
Successful completion of the first-year Medical Assistant curriculum with a minimum GPA of 2.5.
Successful completion of all required coursework with final grades of “C” or better. Required courses may be repeated only once.
Once admitted to the technical component of the program, students are required to:
Maintain a GPA of 2.5 and earn at least a “C” in all courses. Required courses may be repeated only once.
Complete all sequentially numbered courses in order. Note: some courses are only offered once per year. All prerequisite courses must be successfully completed prior to entering the final externships.
Demonstrate the professional and academic behaviors as outlined in the Medical Assistant Student Handbook.
Participation in the clinical setting externship requires the following:
Written documentation of a current criminal history check 30 days prior to entry into the externship component of the Medical Assistant program.
Submission of the required health forms, including a recent physical examination completed by a licensed health care provider, documentation related to sensitivity or allergy to latex, and a current immunization record for tetanus/diphtheria, polio, measles, mumps, and rubella. Proof of immunization for Hepatitis B is recommended; students who do not wish to comply must sign a waiver to decline and a Release of Responsibility form obtained through the Medical Assistant program office.
Yearly documentation of a negative skin-test (2-step), or chest x-ray, for tuberculosis.
Submit evidence of current training and certification in CPR and basic first aid.
Uniforms and attire that comply with the dress code as outlined in the Medical Assistant Student Handbook.
Although health insurance is not required, it is strongly recommended. Finlandia University and its affiliated health care agencies assume no responsibility for injuries or illnesses incurred while performing duties as a Medical Assistant student.
Medical Billing and Coding Specialist program policies are presented in the Medical Billing and Coding Specialist Student Handbook distributed to students upon entry into the technical component of the Medical Billing and Coding Specialist program. Students who have successfully completed the first year of the Medical Billing and Coding Specialist curriculum are required to complete a letter of application for entry to the technical component. A limited number of eligible students are accepted to the technical component each summer, based on available clinical site placements. If the number of eligible applicants exceeds the number of positions available, the faculty reserves the right to select the applicants based on academic qualifications and performance. The remaining applicants will be placed on a waiting list and are encouraged to apply for admission to the Medical Billing and Coding Specialist technical component the following year. Transfer students are advised to contact the Medical Billing and Coding Specialist program director for assistance planning their academic plans of study.
Progression Criteria: Progression into the technical component (second year) of the Medical Billing and Coding Specialist program requires the following:
Successful completion of the first-year Medical Billing and Coding Specialist curriculum with a minimum GPA of 2.5.
Successful completion of all required coursework with final grades of “C” or better. Required courses may be repeated only once.
Once admitted to the technical component of the program, students are required to:
Maintain a GPA of 2.5 and earn at least a “C” in all courses. Required courses may be repeated only once.
Complete all sequentially numbered courses in order. Note: some courses are only offered once per year. All prerequisite courses must be successfully completed prior to entering the final externship.
Demonstrate the professional and academic behaviors as outlined in the Medical Billing and Coding Student Handbook.
Participation in the clinical setting externship requires the following:
Written documentation of a current criminal history check 30 days prior to entry into the externship component of the Medical Billing and Coding Specialist program.
Submission of the required health forms, including a recent physical examination completed by a licensed health care provider, documentation related to sensitivity or allergy to latex, and a current immunization record for tetanus/diphtheria, polio, measles, mumps, and rubella. Proof of immunization for Hepatitis B is recommended; students who do not wish to comply must sign a waiver to decline and a Release of Responsibility form obtained through the Medical Billing and Coding program office.
Yearly documentation of a negative skin-test (2-step), or chest x-ray, for tuberculosis.
Submit evidence of current training and certification in CPR and basic first aid.
Uniforms and attire that comply with the dress code as outlined in the Medical Billing and Coding Specialist Student Handbook.
Although health insurance is not required, it is strongly recommended. Finlandia University and its affiliated health care agencies assume no responsibility for injuries or illnesses incurred while performing duties as a Medical Billing and Coding Specialist.