July 2018 - Page 2 of 4 - Trade School Programs in Chicago

Medical Billing and Coding: What They Are and Why They’re Important

October 23, 2020July 11, 2018 by Jasmin K

It’s no secret that the healthcare industry is booming and its growth is expected to continue into the future. With a population of more than 46 million Americans ages 65 and older, which is anticipated to double by 2060, and the 68 percent of them who suffer from two chronic illnesses, the need for workers in the healthcare industry will not be subsiding anytime soon.

At first glance, doctors and nurses would seem to be the ones running the show at medical facilities nationwide. That is a fair observation, as they are the ones who treat patients. However, there are many other individuals working at hospitals, medical offices and other healthcare settings doing work that makes visits with doctors possible. Two such responsibilities are medical billing and coding.

What is Medical Billing

A vital process in the perpetual functioning of any hospital or medical office is medical billing. Medical billing involves preparing billing claims and submitting them to insurance providers. This ensures that the hospital or medical office is reimbursed the correct amount for the services that they provide patients.

Medical offices receive money from private insurances providers and various healthcare programs, such as Medicare and Medicaid, which are provided by the government. Receiving proper funds allows the medical office to stay open. With suboptimal reimbursement, it is difficult for them to provide stellar healthcare to patients.

What is Medical Coding

While it also pertains to the all-important aspect of insurance reimbursement, medical coding differs in that it involves a unique code for each diagnosis and medical procedure. The translation of diagnoses and procedures into these universal codes allows the health care provider to process the bill correctly.

The International Classification of Disease, Tenth Edition (ICD-10), is the current book of codes utilized across the vast world of healthcare. Created by the World Health Organization (WHO), the ICD-10 and its contents are important not only for maintaining records and billing, but also allows for data to be kept on diseases both domestically and worldwide.

The Importance of Medical Billing and Coding

To this point, it is pretty clear that medical billing and coding are imperative processes to the upkeep of hospitals and medical offices. Medical facilities rely heavily on insurance providers and other healthcare programs for funding.

Insurance companies make their profit by charging those who hold policies monthly fees, or premiums. The buy-ins from the individuals in the pool allows the insurance providers to cover the bulk of medical costs of policyholders, depending on the policy. With that in mind, that is a lot of money coming in from reimbursements and not out of the consumers’ pockets.

That is why it is vitally important for medical billing and coding to be done, and done accurately. Every patient who visits a hospital, immediate care center or other medical facility has information that needs to be documented.

Not only that, but accurate medical billing and coding is important to make sure that patients aren’t left paying more for a procedure than they should, and that they and their insurance are charged for the correct services.

Now that we have established a basic understanding of what medical billing and coding are and their importance, let’s learn a bit more about the individuals who carry out these crucial actions: medical billing and coding specialists.

Medical Billing and Coding Specialists

It is not uncommon for hospitals and medical offices to employ one person or persons who are knowledgeable about both medical billing and coding. Community colleges, trade schools and online education options frequently teach these two skills together in training programs, given the overlap of importance to each other.

Entering the proper codes and other data into a hospital or medical office’s database comprises most of the responsibilities of a medical billing and coding specialist’s job responsibilities. However, they are often tasked with other duties that help the healthcare setting operate at peak efficiency. For instance, medical billing and coding specialists many times function as points of contact between the office’s billing staff and the office’s nurses and doctors.

Like other individuals employed in healthcare settings, medical billing and coding specialists enjoy a promising job outlook in the coming years. Per data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment of medical records and health information technicians (including medical billing and coding specialists) is projected to increase by 15 percent through 2024.

The main culprit for the uptick in demand for medical billing and coding specialists is the fact that more people have access to insurance. More people with insurance means that there will be more visits to medical care facilities and more billing and coding work to be done. As we mentioned in the introduction, the expected spike in citizens over 65 years of age, including the aging baby boomer population, will also keep the medical establishment occupied for quite some time.

We should also note that because medical care is needed almost everywhere and that every medical facility needs staff members to handle the billing and coding, medical billing and coding specialists have nearly endless geographical locations in which they can work. It is increasingly common for medical billing and coding specialists to have the option of working remotely, cutting down or eliminating the need to commute.

Medical billing and coding specialists also enjoy competitive compensation. According to data from the BLS, the median annual salary for medical records and health information technicians in 2016 was $38,040, which is slightly higher than the median of all occupations combined.

As with many occupations, the salary fluctuates based on location and experience. To reiterate, medical billing and coding specialists can work essentially anywhere they wish due to the robust demand for workers in the healthcare field.

OK, so medical billing and coding sound great. How do I get started?

Most medical billing and coding positions simply require the completion of a training program. Medical billing and coding programs are fairly common offerings at many community colleges and trade schools across the country.

Many training programs can be completed in less than 18 months’ time and for a fraction of the price tag of a four-year degree. The medical background you gain from a training program may also help you later, should you choose to continue your education in pursuit of a more lucrative healthcare career. In most cases, you will be required to pass the Registered Health Information Technician (RHIT) certification test, though requirements vary depending on one’s place of employment.

Once you have decided that medical billing and coding is the field you wish to enter, all that remains is choosing a program to enroll in.

Coyne College sets students up to achieve their dreams

Coyne College is one of Chicago’s top skilled trade education institutions and is proud to offer its Medical Billing and Coding Specialist program to students like you who are interested in the profession.

In the program, you will learn the ins and outs of medical billing and coding, and master the skills needed to secure an entry-level job in a plethora of different medical settings. What is even better is that you can complete Coyne’s training program in as few as 48 weeks. In less than one year’s time, you can be ready to start your new career in the exciting field of healthcare.

As a student in Coyne College’s medical coding and billing specialist program, you will obtain sufficient and applicable knowledge of subjects to help you find success as a medical billing and coding specialist.

Coyne’s program includes extensive instruction on relevant topics such as the following:

Medical terminology
Health records management
Medical coding
Insurance procedures
Business communications
Office administration
And more!

You will learn the intricacies of the medical billing and coding profession from Coyne’s knowledgeable instructors who have substantial, invaluable workplace experience to foster your personal growth.

Are you worried that your job or other obligations might prohibit your ability to launch your new medical billing and coding career? Don’t fret, because Coyne College offers both day and night classes for the Medical Billing and Coding Specialist program in order to accommodate your busy schedule. The Medical Billing and Coding Specialist program is offered at the Coyne College campus, located in the heart of the Chicago Loop at the intersection of State and Madison streets.

With more than 110 years of experience in helping students realize their dreams, Coyne College has a well-developed network of resources to help students land apprenticeships at the conclusion of their studies.

Coyne College offers an array of career services and job placement help for its students, including mock interviews, externships and resume help. These resources can help students secure entry-level employment after completing the program.

There is no time like the present to disembark on your journey toward playing a part in providing healthcare to millions of people. Take your first step toward your new career as a medical billing and coding specialist today by visiting https://www.coynecollege.edu/.

Surprising Trends in the Pharmacy Industry

September 25, 2020July 11, 2018 by Jasmin K

Here are a few trends that pharmacy technicians will have to adapt to in the coming years:

The Rise in Personalized and Specialized Medicine

Advances in medical science and technology have made it possible for doctors to prescribe medications depending on the patient’s genetic makeup. The rise in personalized medicine is forecasted to continue as the technology becomes more commonplace.

The Affordable Care Act has made medical insurance more accessible to a wider population of Americans. More people being covered by insurance means more people can pay for specialized medication, which increases the amount of work to be done by pharmacy technicians.

Implementation of 3D Printing

As 3D printing technology becomes more widely available, it makes sense that the pharma industry’s use of the tool will become standard in many places. The Food and Drug Administration approved the first 3D-printed drug in 2015.

More people having access to 3D printing could also mean expanding the marketplace and smaller biotech companies could use the technology to effectively manufacture pharmaceuticals.

Shrinking Number of Distribution Channels

As mentioned earlier, medicine has become incredibly specialized and will only continue to become more so as time goes on. Because of this, experts in the field anticipate the specialized drugs’ availability being limited to a few select distributors.

If you are interested in becoming a pharmacy technician, a stellar education is the best way to set yourself up for success. Luckily for you, Coyne College offers a comprehensive Pharmacy Technician training program. Coyne has experienced professors who will teach you what you need to know before you enter the exciting field of pharmacy. What’s more, the program can be completed in as few as 48 weeks, saving you time and money. Get started today by learning more at https://www.coynecollege.edu/.

Healthcare Trends Affecting Medical Assistants

October 9, 2020July 11, 2018 by Coyne College

Below is a trio of current healthcare trends that will extend into the future of the medical assisting profession:

New Technology in Healthcare

Medical assistants will have to adapt to technological advancements in medicine. Medical offices already heavily rely on the use of computers, but more technology, such as tablets, is being used in medical settings. Being able to use the up-to-date technology provides a leg up for those who are familiar with or those who are adept at the latest innovations.

More Emphasis on Data Analytics

Coinciding with a heavier dependence on technology, medical assistants are expected to be more familiar with data analytics. In many cases, they are the ones entering the information into the medical office’s system, so the necessity of data analytics skills amongst medical assistants makes sense.

Data analytics skills are increasingly used in healthcare to optimize patient care and hospital practices in general. Knowledge of data analytics is also useful to medical assistants in that they work on both the patient care and administrative sides of medical facilities.

Opportunity to Learn Billing and Coding

With the influx of aging patients and individuals with newly acquired health insurance, there is going to be a lot of billing and coding to handle at any given medical office. Despite the fact that many offices have people who handle billing and coding, the increase in workload is projected to be large enough such that medical assistants may also have to take on billing and coding. This is another reason it is important for medical assistants to be at least somewhat familiar with computers.

Learning how to handle billing and coding makes medical assistants more valuable as employees. Medical assistants are naturally jacks-of-all-trades, so billing and coding would be two additional skills under their belts.

If you are interested in becoming a medical assistant, a quality education is the best way to set yourself up for success. Luckily for you, Coyne College offers a comprehensive Medical Assistant program. Coyne has experienced professors who will teach you what you need to know before you enter the workforce. What’s more, the program can be completed in as few as 54 weeks, saving you time and money. Get started today by learning more at https://www.coynecollege.edu/.

Pros and Cons of Working as an HVAC Technician

July 20, 2018July 11, 2018 by Jasmin K

Air conditioning, heating and refrigeration are components of our homes and other buildings that we don’t think much about—that is, unless something goes wrong. When mishaps occur, we rely on a special group of skilled trade professionals to restore these systems to working order. Who are they, you ask? HVAC technicians.

Heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration (HVAC-R) technicians spend their workdays installing, maintaining and repairing various indoor climate control systems that we often take for granted. If not for these dedicated professionals, these life-improving conventions would not be as common as they have become.

You will see HVAC technicians working in a variety of settings, from schools to factories to, yes, residential buildings. They play a vital role in the construction of any building that is going to include HVAC systems because they handle the installation. The systems installed in a building dictate what it can be used for.

The duties HVAC technicians perform are important because help maximizes efficiency of HVAC equipment, which ensures the optimal function of such systems throughout their respective buildings.

If you want to become an HVAC technician, typically you will want to enroll in and complete an HVAC training program at a community college or vocational school. The good thing is that you will have no problem finding such a program since they are growing in number to meet the increasing demand for experienced HVAC professionals.

HVAC training programs tend to last anywhere from six to 24 months to finish, though it depends on the program.

As a student in an HVAC training program, you will learn the basics of the HVAC trade that will prove invaluable during your apprenticeship. Following the completion of a program, you will receive further training on the job. There are aspects of the work you simply need to learn on the job.

With some basic information about the occupation out of the way, we shall now dive into some pros and cons of choosing the HVAC technician career path.

PRO: HVAC Has Great Job Outlook and Compensation

It is certainly no secret that people will be using refrigerators, heating systems, and air conditioners into the foreseeable future. Because of this fact, the employment prospects of HVAC technicians are expected to burn brightly for quite some time. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), HVAC technician employment is expected to increase by 15 percent through 2026.

The continuing growth of construction, both commercial and residential, is a factor in the projected growth, in addition to the increasing prevalence of service contracts. These contracts help stabilize the workload and income for technicians year-round by scheduling maintenance appointments.

To complement the anticipated job growth in the field, HVAC technicians also receive higher salaries compared to those of workers in many other occupations across America. Per BLS data, the median salary of HVAC technicians as of May 2016 was $45,910. The highest 10 percent of earners in the HVAC field earned upwards of $73,000.

The BLS notes that the job prospects for aspiring HVAC technicians who finished an educational training program were more promising than those of their peers who did not complete such a program. The point is that if you wish to succeed in your career as an HVAC technician, a training program will help provide the base on which you can build your rewarding career.

PRO: HVAC – Work and Live Almost Anywhere

Keeping in mind that heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration are utilities most of us use on a daily basis, the number of these systems in the United States is massive. To keep all of these systems up and running, HVAC technicians and the services they render are needed across the country.

Paired with the growing demand, the commonness of HVAC systems will allow you to work and live practically anywhere you want to. With this abundance of geographic options to choose from, it is worth noting that California, Ohio, Florida, Texas and Illinois have been dubbed the five best states for HVAC technicians to work in.

PRO: With HVAC – Get Paid While You Learn the Job

As we mentioned in the opening section, if you choose to become an HVAC technician you will receive extensive training on the job as an entry-level employee following the completion of your training program. During this time, you will earn approximately half of the salary that your fully trained journeyman counterparts do.

The great part about it, however, is that you will typically receive pay raises as you master more and more skills of the job. The experienced professionals from whom you learn will transform you from a novice who is right out of a training program into a full-fledged HVAC technician with a wealth of practical knowledge.

PRO: HVAC Makes a Difference in the Environment and in the Lives of Customers

Many of the jobs HVAC technicians do are aimed at improving the efficiency of HVAC systems and reducing the negative effects their operations have on the environment. HVAC technicians execute a variety of tasks to meet these environmentally friendly ends, including:

Swapping out old filters for new ones
Installing dehumidifiers where they are needed
Installing thermostats that help save energy and money
Installing heat pumps to help reduce carbon emissions

Properly functioning HVAC systems not only reduce environmental impact, they also help save consumers money and provide them with optimal comfort in their homes and work settings. This improves their quality of life, which is invaluable.

CON: HVAC Occasionally Has Long Hours

As with many other workers, HVAC technicians have times of the year that are busier than others. HVAC technicians commonly work heavy amounts of overtime during peak heating and cooling seasons.

Logging long work hours is undoubtedly strenuous for HVAC technicians and their bodies, though it is not without benefit, as they are compensated accordingly to reward their hard work. Think of it as a double-edged sword.

CON: HVAC Has Occupational Safety Hazards

Working as an HVAC technician does involve some risk of bodily harm. HVAC technicians suffer more on-the-job injuries than workers in many other professions because they are often working with heavy equipment, extreme heat and/or cold, not to mention they are subjected to hazardous materials from time to time.

HVAC technicians can achieve an excess of different certifications signifying competence in working with different machinery. That definitely helps cut down on injuries. Those who work with refrigerants are required to pass a test given by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Certifications help make HVAC work environments safer, but they don’t eliminate workplace mishaps completely, so just be aware of this when considering a career as an HVAC technician.

Now that we have laid out some of the pros and cons of the profession, all you need is a place to start your education and your career.

Start Your HVAC Career the Right Way at Coyne Collge

Coyne College is one of the best-skilled trade schools in Chicago and surrounding area Coyne is proud to maintain this status by thoroughly training aspiring HVAC-R technicians in its diploma program in the skilled trade.

Coyne College offers its HVAC-R program during the day and at night to accommodate your busy schedule. The program can be completed in as few as 42 weeks and is offered at the Coyne College campus, located in the heart of the Chicago Loop at the intersection of State and Madison.

Coyne College’s HVAC-R program will prepare you to perform the essential functions of an HVAC-R technician, such as installing, maintaining and repairing HVAC-R systems in a multitude of settings.

In Coyne College’s HVAC-R program, you will gain the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed in the HVAC-R profession. Some of the required courses in the program’s curriculum include:

Gas Heating
Commercial Controls and Applications
Troubleshooting Systems and Installation
Air Conditioning, Electric Heat and Heat Pumps
And More!

In the program, you will become well experienced in the intricacies of HVAC-R by learning from experienced instructors who have significant experience in the field. At the end of the HVAC-R program, you will be ready to enter the workforce as an HVAC-R technician.

With 118 years of experience in helping aspiring skilled trade professionals become competent members of the labor force, Coyne College has a well-developed network of resources to help students gain employment at the conclusion of their training programs.

Coyne College also offers its students career assistance, including mock interviews, externships and resume help. These resources can help students secure apprenticeships after completing the program.

At Coyne College, you’ll receive a well-rounded education that will serve as the foundation of your skilled trade career. What are you waiting for? Schedule a tour or start your HVAC career today by visiting https://www.coynecollege.edu/.

Faculty Spotlight: Ravyn Bolton – Pharmacy Technician

October 9, 2020July 11, 2018 by Coyne College

“As long as students are willing to adapt to change and learn something new each day they are going to impact and change lives”, hear more from our Pharmacy Technician Instructor Ravyn Bolton through the pharmacy technician faculty spotlight! Learn about her experience, teaching at Coyne, and advice to students!

Find out more details on Pharmacy Technician Program at Coyne College.

Chicago’s own Coyne College offers the in-demand degree and diploma programs employers right here in Chicago are looking for. We work with some of the leading employers in the city to help get you placed in a challenging career upon graduation. Bottom line, Chicago’s own Coyne College gives you hands-on training you’ll need to get the job done.

REASONS TO CHOOSE COYNE
1. Training programs focused on in-demand careers such as medical assisting and HVAC.

2. A variety of tuition assistance options to help make school possible. Coyne offers financial aid to qualified students as well as scholarship opportunities.

3. Flexible schedule options – we have programs with day and evening classes so you can find the option that fits your needs.

4. Dedicated career services department. Our Career Services team can help you reach your career goals. Plus we offer lifetime job placement assistance!

5. Over a century of career training experience as well as skilled faculty and staff to help you succeed.

Visit the Coyne College Website for more details about programs and start dates.

7 On-the-Job Safety Tips for Electricians

October 9, 2020July 11, 2018 by Coyne College

Working with electricity isn’t easy. It’s not safe, either. Electricians face a substantial amount of danger each day they go to work. Electricians install the electrical wires, circuitry and fixtures needed to provide electricity. They’re also tasked with maintaining these components once they’re in place. Any time you’re working with electricity, even if you consider yourself a savvy master DIYer because you’ve seen a couple home improvement shows, there is a significant degree of danger involved.

Burns, collapsed lungs from arc blasts and involuntary muscle contractions are all threats that are posed by electricity and give electricians, not to mention civilians, reason to be careful when working with electricity and electrical components.

As an increasing number of people are going to require electricity and new alternative energy equipment needs to be installed, there will be an increased need for electricians. The number of electrician jobs is projected to climb by nine percent through 2026, according to the BLS. This makes safety all the more paramount, given more people will be risking their corporal beings to provide us with electricity.

There are a number of small actions that professional electricians take to help mitigate the potential for perilous accidents and minimize the damage when they do occur. Below is a list of seven things electricians can do to maintain safety in the workplace:

Know your rights

As an electrical worker, or any kind of worker, you have the right to a safe workplace. The Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA) exists to protect that right, and laws are in place to protect you. OSHA’s website is full of helpful information to help you bone up on your rights as a worker or learn them if you didn’t know them already. Knowledge is power and will go a long way in keeping you safe on the job.

Be ready for anything

Minimizing a potentially dangerous mishap is all about preparation. When working on an electrical job, it’s important to take into account what kind of project you’re working on and consider what could potentially go wrong. Is there a slight chance such-and-such a situation might come to fruition? Better bring something to handle it if it does. Taking the time to thoroughly conceive of different scenarios that might spring up and planning accordingly will allow you to handle the unexpected when it inevitably happens.

Equip yourself with adequate gear

This goes along with the previous step of preparedness. Wearing sufficient and reliable safety gear is one of the most important parts of staying safe in the workplace. Insulated gloves can help protect your hands from electrical currents. Hard hats help reduce injuries caused by falling debris, such as in a construction setting, as well as from dangling electrical wires. Ocular protection is important as well.

Flame-retardant equipment is another vital aspect of an electrician’s workplace attire, as fires and sparks resulting in fires are not uncommon during everyday labor. OSHA has specific guidelines for what constitutes sufficient personal protective equipment when working with electricity if you’re unsure whether or not yours measures up to par for the industry. Personal protective equipment is your ultimate line of bodily protection in the event that something goes awry.

Test before you touch

The only way to know if a circuit, or any other electrical component, is safe for you to touch is by testing it before you do so. The easiest way to test a component for the strength of the current is by using a device called a multimeter. These are essential devices that can be found in any electrician’s toolbox.

Multimeters produce a reading, typically in volts, of how strong the current flowing through the electrical component is and whether it is weak enough for you to touch or not. Additionally, readings from a multimeter can give you an idea of what the potential issue you’re dealing with is when troubleshooting.

Only use equipment for its intended purpose

Tools exist to perform a certain function or set of functions. Manufacturers craft tools to be used in specific ways and for specific techniques. Misuse can lead to broken equipment or bodily injury. A screwdriver does not perform particularly well as a makeshift multimeter.

Follow proper procedures

Speaking of techniques, one of the reasons electricians employ certain techniques is to maintain their own safety while getting the job done. Electricians enroll in training programs to learn the job and learn it the right way. Mistakes still happen in any job, and as an entry-level electrician you might take some physical lumps, but pain has a way of helping you not make the same mistake twice.

Make sure you’re trained for the job

This final tip builds on the last point. Be confident in your ability to complete the job. If you don’t feel confident enough in your abilities or don’t feel ready to take on a certain task, let your supervisor know and they can help you learn the task in question. An electrician training program can’t prepare you for everything you’ll encounter in real-world experience, but that’s why you’ll receive on-the-job training when you enter the workforce.

These are all ways in which electricians can ensure workplace safety. Has learning about these safety tips piqued your interest in joining the ranks of more than 628,000 electricians in the United States? If so, all you need to do is find a training program that fits your needs.

Plug Yourself into Your New Career

Coyne College is one of Chicago’s top skilled-trade education institutions and is proud to offer two programs for aspiring electrical workers: electrical construction and planning and electrical construction and maintenance.

Coyne College offers both programs during days and nights to help accommodate the busy schedules of its students. Both programs are offered at the Coyne College campus, located in the Chicago Loop at the intersection of State and Madison Streets.

The electrical construction and planning program’s curriculum is more extensive than that of the electrical construction maintenance program and can be completed in as few as 78 weeks. The electrical construction and maintenance program, on the other hand, also prepares you to enter the field but can be finished in 42 to 56 weeks, depending on whether you take day or night classes.

As a student in either of Coyne College’s electrical programs, you will be submerged in classes such as:

Electrical and Electronic Principles
Electrical Test and Equipment Safety
Electrical Construction – Residential
Electrical Theory and Applications
And more!

You will learn the ins and outs of the electrician trade in a setting that focuses on your individual success and be taught by Coyne’s highly knowledgeable instructors who have years of real-world experience under their belts.

Following the completion of your associate’s degree or diploma program, you will be ready to enter the electrical workers’ field as an apprentice. As mentioned previously, apprenticeships usually last between four and five years.

Coyne College’s career services department can help students with job placement, including apprenticeships. Coyne College has more than 110 years of experience in helping transform students with dreams into qualified, skilled-trade professionals.

Spark your new career and discovery with everything Coyne College can offer you by visiting.

How to Format Your Resume – Tips for the Trades

October 9, 2020July 11, 2018 by Jasmin K

Coyne College taught you well, providing you with the hands-on training and skills you need to prepare for your career in the trades. Now it’s time to highlight your education and skills in a résumé that can help put you in front of potential employers.

Check out this infographic about Resume Format Tips to get a better idea on what you need to succeed!

How To Write Your Resume - Resume Format Tips

One of our friendly and knowledgeable admissions advisors will be happy to discuss pursuing your career training at Coyne College. We’ll provide all the information you need to make an intelligent, well-informed decision about your future.

Contact us and set up a visit with an Admissions Representative.
Interview with Admissions Representative.
Pass the entrance exam (or provide acceptable ACT/SAT scores).
Recommendation from Admissions Representative
Final Acceptance interview
Apply and process enrollment
Attend Orientation
Start classes

Visit Coyne College for more details about trades and health programs.

The Evolution of the Pharmacy Technician Occupation

November 6, 2020July 11, 2018 by Jasmin K

Evolution Pharmacy technician Occupation

Pharmacy technicians play an integral role in the dissemination of prescription medicine and helping people regain health when they get sick. They are often the ones on the front lines who answer questions patients may have about their prescriptions.

Pharmacy technicians and the roles they play are subject to the constantly changing world. Working as a pharmacy technician today is different than it was even 10 years ago. What are some of the changes and factors that have contributed to the evolution of pharmacy technician occupation, you ask?

Changing Regulations

Health care will continue to be a hot topic of discussion across the United States as health care policy continues to be worked out in Congress. As the nation witnessed with the passing of the Affordable Care Act, health care reform can have far-reaching effects for health care and its aggregate industries. It appears that things may be on the verge of changing once again in the near future.

Increase in Specialized and Personalized Medicine

Medicine is fairly personal to begin with. Scientific and technological advances in medicine have made and will continue to make it possible for doctors to prescribe medications depending on the patient’s genetic makeup. The increased personalization of medicine is forecasted to continue as the technology becomes more commonplace.

Access to health care is also at an all-time high, which means greater access to prescription drugs. In 2016, nearly 4.5 billion prescriptions were issued, compared to the roughly 4 billion dispensed just five years prior in 2011.

Greater access to prescription drugs means there will be no shortage of work for pharmacy technicians. More people being covered by insurance means more people can pay for specialized medication, which increases the amount of work to be done by pharmacy technicians. In fact, the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that employment of pharmacy technicians will increase by 12 percent through 2026.

Implementation of 3-D Printing

As 3-D printing technology becomes more widely available, it makes sense that the pharma industry’s use of the tool will become standard in many places. The Food and Drug Administration approved the first 3-D printed drug in 2015.

More people having access to 3-D printing could also mean expanding the marketplace, and smaller biotech companies could use the technology to effectively manufacture pharmaceuticals.

Fewer Sources of Drugs

Medicine has become incredibly specialized and will only continue to become more specialized as time goes on. With this in mind, experts in the field anticipate that the availability of such highly specialized drugs will be limited to a few select distributors. It is also possible that certain regulations may be lifted to favor big pharma under the current administration.

Taking a Bigger Role at Pharmacies

In recent years, pharmacists have been taking a bigger role in patient care due to the evolution of pharmacy technician occupation. They have begun administering vaccines, such as flu shots, and providing other patient care services. Because of this, the BLS suggests that pharmacy technicians may have to take on bigger roles and pick up some of the tasks that pharmacists may no longer be able to cover alone.

This can be an advantage for pharmacy technicians because it would give them the chance to learn more skills. Taking on more responsibility could also result in higher earnings.

Prescribe Yourself a New Career

For those living in the Chicagoland area, you need to look no further than Coyne College. Coyne College is one of Chicago’s top skilled trade education institutions and is proud to offer its Pharmacy Technician program to students like you who are interested in the profession.

In Coyne’s comprehensive Pharmacy Tech program, you will learn the finer points of working as a pharmacy technician and how to adapt to the ever-changing landscape of the American health care system. You can complete Coyne’s program in as few as 48 weeks. In less than one year’s time, you can be ready to start your new career as a certified pharmacy technician.

Coyne has experienced professors who will teach you what you need to know before you enter the field and begin assisting pharmacists. As a student in the program, you will receive extensive instruction on relevant topics such as the following:

Medical terminology
Anatomy and pathophysiology
Laws, ethics and principles of pharmacy practice
Billing, records and inventory management
And more!

Coyne College offers its Pharmacy Technician program during days and nights in effort to make continuing your education possible regardless of other commitments. The Pharmacy Technician program is offered at the Coyne College campus, located in the heart of the Chicago Loop at the intersection of State and Madison Streets.

With more than 110 years of experience in helping students realize their dreams, Coyne College has a well-developed network of resources that can help students gain employment following the completion of their studies.

Now is a great time to be getting into the pharmaceuticals industry and be part of bettering the health of the world’s population. Write yourself a prescription for a career as a pharmacy technician and get started today by visiting https://www.coynecollege.edu/. Learn more about evolution of pharmacy technician occupation with us!

New Chicago Restrictions Protect Pharmacy Staff and Consumers

August 12, 2019July 11, 2018 by Jasmin K

Chicago Restrictions Help Pharmacy Staff

In a win for pharmacists, pharmacy technicians and patients, the Chicago City Council Finance Committee approved legislation that would limit pharmacists to filling a maximum of 10 prescriptions per hour. The measure was approved by the committee back in October of 2017 and also guarantees pharmacists meal and bathroom breaks.

The proposal, sponsored by 14th Ward alderman Edward Burke, came as a reaction to a 2016 Chicago Tribune article reporting that more than half of the 255 pharmacies investigated in the Chicago area and surrounding states frequently failed to inform Tribune reporters of the potentially harmful drug combinations if taken together when selling them.

It’s common for some pharmacists to work long days, up to 12 hours, and according to the Chicago Tribune story, “they worry about losing focus during busy shifts and potentially putting their customers in jeopardy.” The measure also requires that pharmacies post a list of pharmacists and pharmacy technicians who have been working for longer than eight hours to provide an extra layer of protection against pharmacist fatigue.

In a move to further protect consumers from unwittingly taking potentially fatal pairings of prescription drugs, Illinois governor Bruce Rauner was a key proponent of an approved measure that requires pharmacists to speak with patients at pharmacy windows when dispensing new or updated prescriptions. Investigators found that it was not uncommon for pharmacy technicians to ask patients when filling prescriptions and simply inquire whether or not they had questions for the pharmacist on duty regarding the prescriptions.

The Tribune story also suggests that the actions taken by the committee and Gov. Rauner could set the table for further government action of retail pharmacies across the country.

Pharmacy Staff Pay Also on the Rise in Step with Rest of Healthcare

On top of regulations designed to protect pharmacy staff and consumers, pharmacists and pharmacy technicians are seeing increases in their respective salaries. According to a news release from Cision, both pharmacists and pharmacy technicians saw 2 percent increases in their median salaries. These increases, along with others across the robust healthcare industry, are undoubtedly the result of the current and future demand for healthcare services and the resulting economic boom.

Pharmacy technicians in Illinois also tend to earn more than the national median for the occupation, with a median salary of $31,210, according to the Occupational Information Network (O*NET). It’s also worth noting that hospital pharmacy practice tends to be more lucrative for pharmacy technicians relative to other employment settings. The pharmacy technician profession will not be without its own share of evolutions and obstacles to be faced in the near future.

Launching a successful career working in a pharmacy is not as far-fetched as one might think it is. Many pharmacy technicians enter the field straight out of high school.

Launch Your Pharmacy Technician Career at Coyne College

Are you looking for a program in Chicago to help your pharmacy technician dreams take wing? Look no further than the pharmacy technician program at Coyne College.

Coyne College is one of Chicago’s top skilled trade education institutions and is proud to offer its Pharmacy Technician program to students like you who are interested in the profession. In Coyne’s comprehensive program, you will learn the finer points of working as a pharmacy technician and how to adapt to the ever-changing landscape of the American healthcare system. You can complete Coyne’s program in as few as 48 weeks. In less than one year’s time, you can be ready to start your new career as a certified pharmacy technician.

Coyne has experienced instructors who will teach you what you need to know before you enter the field and begin assisting pharmacists. As a student in the program, you will receive extensive instruction on relevant topics such as:

Medical terminology
Anatomy and pathophysiology
Laws, ethics and principles of pharmacy practice
Billing, records and inventory management

Coyne College offers its Pharmacy Technician program during the day and at night in an effort to make continuing your education possible regardless of your other commitments. The Pharmacy Technician program is offered at the Coyne College campus, located in the heart of the Chicago Loop at the intersection of State and Madison.

Now is a great time to get into the pharmaceuticals industry and be part of bettering the health of the world’s population. Write yourself a prescription for a career as a pharmacy technician and get started today by visiting https://www.coynecollege.edu/.

Caring for Individuals with Heart Disease – Medical Assistants

August 12, 2019July 11, 2018 by Jasmin K

February is American Heart Month. First proclaimed by President Lyndon B. Johnson in 1964, the month is dedicated to increasing the awareness of heart health and creating a culture in which making heart-healthy life choices are encouraged. Heart disease is the No. 1 killer of Americans and is undoubtedly a health risk that needs to be addressed.

The support of family and friends of people suffering from heart disease and the aftermath of strokes is vital to improving the health of those affected. In the spirit of celebrating the month, below is a list of actions friends, family and medical staff members can take to help those afflicted with heart disease.

Accompany Them to Doctor Appointments

Offering to attend an appointment with a friend or family member can provide comfort and support during the visit to counteract some of their fear. Even if you’re not in the examination room with them, being there for the car ride to and from the appointment is a way to show them love and support. However, being in the examination room with them can help you better understand the disease and better care for your friend or loved one.

Share Helpful Articles

The old adage is that knowledge is power. There are numerous articles out there about heart disease, how to navigate life with it and coping with the monumental weight of the affliction. The American Heart Association (AHA), the largest organization dedicated to fighting heart disease and stroke, offers a wealth of helpful informational materials and research.

There are also online support groups your friend or family member can connect with for additional support. The AHA has a robust online support network to help people come together in effort to comfort and provide solidarity to those suffering from heart disease.

Provide Emotional Support

Providing your friends or family with emotional support in situations outside of a medical setting is also important. Finding out that you’re diagnosed with heart disease can be psychologically traumatizing. If your friend or family member shows prolonged symptoms of depression, suggesting therapy sessions with a psychiatrist or social worker can help.

It’s also critical to not pressure the person to talk about their condition if they do not wish to do so. Everyone handles traumatic events differently. Simply letting them know that you are there for them to talk about it when they are ready lets them know you care.

Encourage a Healthy Diet and Exercise

Diet and exercise are vital to everyone’s health. It is even more important for those who have had a stroke or who have been diagnosed with heart disease. Understandably, it’s not always easy to do that, especially by oneself. Supporting your friend or loved one’s transition to a healthier diet and exercise is another way in which you can provide love and support.

If it’s your significant other who’s attempting to change their diet, you can show your solidarity by eating the same things they’re eating. The same can be said for exercising. It’s a lot easier to do something you perceive as difficult if you have a friend to accompany you in your pursuit of self-improvement. In effect, the changes you make with your partner can improve your life as well.

Helping your friend or loved one form good habits and providing them with encouragement until they reach self-sufficiency can make all of the difference in their success.

Empathy from Medical Assistants and Doctors

Doctors and their staffs are obviously crucial to the care of people with heart disease. The doctor’s attitude can be a factor in how well the treatment and lifestyle changes fare. This is not to say that doctors should sugarcoat information, but it helps if the doctor and staff have a capacity for empathy.

This is true of medical assistants who work in cardiologists’ offices with heart disease patients. Medical assistants help the doctor provide patient care, performing tasks like taking blood pressure, addressing questions and concerns, in addition to comforting patients.

The task is especially important for patients who come to visits by themselves or were unable to have someone go with them for that particular appointment. Showing empathy to patients and making them feel comfortable can be the difference between a patient feeling good at the end of the visit and feeling depressed.

Clearly medical assistants play an important role in the heart health of patients, especially in cardiologists’ offices. If you’re seeking a career in which you can make a difference in the heart health of America, becoming a medical assistant might be the perfect life choice for you.

Start Your Journey at Coyne College

Coyne College is one of Chicago’s top skilled trade education institutions and is proud to offer its medical assistant program to future healthcare professionals. Coyne offers day classes for their healthcare programs. All programs are offered at the Coyne College campus, located in the heart of the Chicago Loop at the intersection of State and Madison streets.

Coyne College’s medical assistant program thoroughly prepares you to enter the healthcare field as a medical assistant. The program can be completed in as little as 54 weeks.

As a medical assisting student at Coyne College, you will gain the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed as a medical assistant. Some of the topics covered in the program’s curriculum include:

Medical Terminology
Pharmacology
Anatomy and Pathophysiology
Basic Insurance and Billing
And more!

You will learn the ins and outs of medical assisting in an environment surrounded by instructors dedicated to helping you succeed. Coyne’s highly knowledgeable instructors have years of meaningful experience in the workforce. Coyne College’s program also features a six-week portion dedicated to electronic health records.

All medical assisting students are required to complete an externship following the completion of all of the necessary coursework.

Following the completion of the program and your externship, you will be ready to enter the workforce as a medical assistant in any number of healthcare settings.

With more than 110 years of experience in helping aspiring skilled trade professionals realize their dreams, Coyne College has a well-developed network of resources to help students gain employment after they finish their studies.

Coyne College offers students career assistance, including mock interviews, externships and résumé help. These resources can help students secure externships after completing the program.

Coyne’s students receive a well-rounded medical assistant education that provides them with a toolbox for success in the healthcare industry.

Start your journey to bettering the lives of patients today by visiting https://www.coynecollege.edu/.