Edison State, Wilson Health Partner on Medical Assistant Apprenticeship

Edison State Community College and Wilson Health are partnering to offer an Earn and Learn Apprenticeship for Medical Assistants.

“The apprenticeship partnership between Wilson Health and Edison State will provide an opportunity to those hired through Wilson Health to gain the education and practical experience needed to master the skills of an entry-level medical assistant and help strengthen the workforce across the Miami Valley region,” said Yvonne Koors, Associate Professor of Medical Assisting and Director of Medical Assistant at Edison State.

Medical assistants are valuable health care team members who work primarily in outpatient care locations and perform administrative and clinical duties. Tasks may include scheduling and greeting patients, insurance billing and coding, managing and maintaining medical records, interviewing patients to obtain medical histories and chief complaints, and assisting with examinations.

Those completing the Medical Assistant Apprenticeship program will receive technical instruction through Edison State and on-the-job training at Wilson Health. It prepares apprentices to take the Certified Medical Assistant certification exam through the American Association of Medical Assistants and provides them with skills and confidence learned on the job.

“At Wilson Health, we are committed to building strong workforce pipelines that create opportunities for individuals to grow meaningful careers in health care while supporting the needs of our community. Partnering with Edison State on this Medical Assistant Apprenticeship allows us to invest in hands-on training, professional development, and the future of health care in our region,” said Sarah Burmeister, Vice President of People Services at Wilson Health.

According to the Ohio Governor’s Office of Workforce Transformation, the projected annual growth of employed medical assistants in Ohio is 203, with yearly openings totaling 3,183. Overall, medical assistant apprenticeship programs provide a win-win situation for employers and students, offering valuable training, skill development, and employment opportunities.

“This program allows participants to gain valuable hands-on training in real-world health care settings,” said Brandi Olberding, Edison State Assistant Dean of Workforce Development & Work-Based Learning. “Unlike traditional educational pathways, apprenticeships offer students the opportunity to earn a wage while they learn. This financial support can help alleviate the financial burden of education and living expenses.”

Apprenticeship programs allow employers to develop a skilled workforce tailored to their needs. By participating in such programs, employers can shape apprentices’ skills and knowledge according to the demands of their medical practice or facility, gaining loyalty and retention.

Those interested in learning more about the Medical Assistant Apprenticeship program should call Yvonne Koors, MHA, RMA, at 937.778.7947 or email.

Visit www.edisonohio.edu/apprenticeships to learn more about apprenticeships at Edison State.

Visit www.wilsonhealth.org/career to learn more about Wilson Health and its current career opportunities.