Back to results

Office Administration – Health Services (Online)

Smiling woman wearing medical uniform sits at a front reception desk on a computer in a medical office setting. In the background are other members of staff, including doctors.

Skilled support is key in medical offices. This flexible, self-paced program prepares you for roles in clinics, hospitals and more. Learn communication, data management, invoicing, OHIP billing, transcription and office procedures to excel in health care administration.

Apply
Ask a question

Home / Learn / Programs List / Office Administration – Health Services (Online)
Credential
Ontario College Diploma
Duration
Other
Start Date(s)
Ongoing
Locations
Online
Open to
Domestic Students
CIP Code
51.0705

Find your career

Begin your journey to a career as a health services office administrator. With specialized skills in high demand across medical environments, these professionals keep health care facilities running efficiently by: 

  • Streamlining workflows, scheduling appointments and maintaining accurate patient records. 
  • Managing medical data, processing invoices and ensuring compliance with health regulations. 
  • Ensuring clear and efficient communication between patients, providers and health care teams to support quality care.

Is it for you?

Successful health services office administrators are: 

  • Organized and detail-focused, ensuring the efficient and accurate management of schedules and records.  
  • Committed to maintaining confidentiality and handling sensitive information with discretion. 
  • Comfortable using and staying up to date with new medical office software and health care tools. 
  • Excellent communicators who take pride in supporting patients and members of the health care team. 

How you'll learn

Flexible learning that fits your life.

Prepare for a rewarding career in health services office administration, learning online at your own pace:

  • Develop essential skills in communications, business and accounting math and computer applications.
  • Learn industry-specific knowledge, including medical terminology, health records management, OHIP billing, medical transcription and more.
  • Explore ethical considerations and strategies for building strong patient and professional relationships.

Courses

ACCT8003 Accounting Basics I

This course introduces student to how accounting information is used by and meets the needs of both internal and external users through effective and efficient communication as well as what accounting information is required by a business concern to reflect clearly the operating results of the enterprise over its operating life. Throughout the course, students will be introduced to generally accepted accounting principles, the interpretation and preparation of financial statements, and how this information is recorded in the various business records.

HLTH8131 Advanced Medical Transcription

This course is designed for transcriptionist to perfect their skills in medical transcription and terminology. The main purpose of the course is to develop and refine transcription skills to a competitive level by using the learning activities included in the textbook.
Prerequisite: HLTH 8130

HLTH8130 Beginning Medical Transcription

This course is designed to provide students with a working knowledge of transcription of medical reports. Transcription is taking the spoken word and turning it into a written document. Case studies are provided so that the student will gain knowledge in the transcribing of various medical reports. Medical reports will be transcribed from ten individual case studies, each of which concerns an inpatient with a specific medical problem. There are between four and six reports within each case study. Students will be involved in the care of the patient from the date of admission through the date of discharge.
Prerequisite: HLTH 8153, HLTH 8154

BUSI8055 Building and Maintaining Customer Relationships

This course is intended to develop your understanding of customer service and the skills associated with understanding the needs of the customer, meeting those needs and fostering an environment that encourages customers to return. It will be of interest to anyone who works with customers, either internal or external, on a daily basis.

MATH8002 Business Math

This course provides a review of basic arithmetic and algebra as well as providing students with mathematical tools and concepts needed for other college courses and in future employment. This course is to prepare students for later courses in Marketing, Business, Financial Planning, Accounting, Purchasing and Insurance.

COMM8001 Communications

Communication remains an essential skill sought by employers, regardless of discipline or field of study. Using a practical, vocation-oriented approach, students develop stronger grammar and business writing skills to become effective business communicators. Through a combination of lectures, exercises, and independent learning, students practice writing, speaking, reading, listening, locating and documenting information, and using technology to communicate professionally. Students develop and strengthen communication skills that contribute to success in both educational and workplace environments.

COMM8010 Communications: Grammar & Writing

In this course, students will develop their application of contemporary English grammar standards and organizational writing patterns, which together create a strong foundation for organizing and writing tasks in subsequent communications courses.

COMP8522 Computer Keyboarding Skills I

In this course students learn keyboarding techniques using various methods. Keyboarding speed and accuracy are emphasized. Proofreading and editing documents is covered. Research about repetitive stress injury (RSI) and proper ergonomics is included. The student should be able to achieve a minimum speed of 25 net words per minute (nwpm) with 5 or fewer errors with frequent practice.

ACCT8019 Computerized Accounting

This course introduces students to a multi-module accounting software program designed for small to medium-sized businesses. Students will use the software and their knowledge of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) to create and maintain accounting records, including period end procedures and the creation of financial statements for sole proprietorships.

BUSI8091 Critical & Creative Thinking

Thinking is any mental activity that helps formulate or solve a problem, make a decision, or fulfill a desire to understand. Today more than ever, leaders need to be creative and critical thinkers in order to deal with all aspects of organizational, strategic and societal situations or environments. You will learn how to think creatively and critically and apply those skills to both professional and personal situations. For leaders, fine-tuning your creative and critical thinking skills will assist you in strategic planning, decision-making and problem solving.

HLTH8103 Essentials in Health Records Management

This course is designed to study the record keeping practices in the hospital and physician’s office. Emphasis is placed on hospital and medical staff organization, patient record content, procedures in filing, numbering and retention of patient records, qualitative analysis, release of patient information, forms control and design, indexes and registers, reimbursements, regulatory and accrediting agencies and alternate health care delivery systems.

BUSI8185 Ethical Issues in Business

Organizations which are supportive of a positive ethical culture enjoy critical competitive advantages, such as a good reputation and the respect and support of their clients, employees and other stakeholders. This course is designed to assist employees in developing and understanding a framework with which to make ethical decisions. Cases will be drawn from real business situations. Research papers and case studies will be used to formulate the discussion topics.

POLI8013 Intercultural Communications

Students taking this course will be introduced to the study of intercultural communication, focusing on topics such as media, levels of communication, gestures and microaggressions. Students will learn how they can apply principles of intercultural communication to their daily lives and how they can understand and appreciate cultural differences relating to communication. The main objective of this course is to gain an understanding of varied communication styles, tools, and methods to help improve communication in the workforce. As part of the course, students will communicate with classmates on the Discussion board about current readings related to Intercultural Communication. This course will be of interest to workers in health services, education, human resources, and business as well as those people who want to enhance their communication skills and expand their understanding of intercultural communication.

COMP8155 Introduction to Computers 1

This course will familiarize students with the digital world by exploring the hardware and software of their computer system. Graduates will be able to use the most common functions of the Windows operating system including File Explorer for file management, utility programs, various web browsers for social media while observing and identifying security and privacy concerns and issues. Graduates will be able to build properly formatted documents using Microsoft Word and spreadsheets including correctly functioning formulas using Microsoft Excel and create commanding presentations with Microsoft PowerPoint while using the cloud to store and access their files.

COMP8156 Introduction to Computers 2

This will course provide the student with more advanced and related skills in constructing spreadsheets using Microsoft Excel, developing presentations using Microsoft PowerPoint and creating, maintaining and publishing a database using Microsoft Access. Students completing this course will have a well rounded knowledge of the Microsoft Office Suite.
Prerequisite: COMP 8155

HLTH8528 Medical Conditions for Medical Office Professionals

This course introduces the student to important concepts related to human diseases. The most common diseases and disorders of each body system are presented along with a review of the anatomy and physiology pertinent to the content. Additionally, the effects of aging on the system and the relationship of aging to disease are presented. This course is open to people currently employed in health-related areas or to those who hope to work in the health-care field in the future.

HLTH8118 Medical OHIP Billing

This course is designed to provide the student with the basic principles of efficient Health Claim Billing in Ontario. The student will learn how to use the Schedule of Benefits and Preambles of the Ministry of Health, as well as be introduced to computerized billing.
Prerequisite: HLTH 8007

HLTH8107 Medical Office Procedures

Medical Office Procedures is a course designed for the learner who plans to work as an administrative (front office) medical assistant in a private physician's office, specialty clinic, or hospital setting. It will include information on professional and career responsibilities, interpersonal communications, records management, written communications, financial administration, and managing the medical office. The Canada Health Act will be introduced as well as OHIP and the principles of OHIP medical billing.

HLTH8007 Medical Terminology

Develop the language required to communicate effectively in a medical setting. Medical terminology and word structure related to twelve body systems will be studied. Terminology related to basic diagnostic procedures and basic pharmacology will be included.

HLTH8067 Medical Terminology Level 2 - Pronunciation

This course has been designed for medical office professionals to concentrate on the pronunciation and verbalization of medical terminology that was learned in the first level of Medical Terminology. Students will listen to audio files to learn the pronunciation of medical terms involving all body systems. Assessment of the student's ability to pronounce medical terms will be done through audio files recorded by the student and submitted for evaluation. There is also a theory component to each assignment to be done online.
Prerequisite: HLTH 8007

HLTH8154 Medical Transcription Fundamentals

This course will enhance the learning achieved in previous and prerequisite courses for medical transcription that students need to enter the field with confidence. Students will experience a practical and effective approach with learning activities at the end of each lesson designed to reinforce concepts and procedures. Students will have a conceptual and practical understanding of general medical terms and various medical specialties.
Prerequisite: HLTH 8007

HLTH8153 Medical Transcription Styles and Practices

Learn concepts and standards of style and format of medical reports and basic grammar rules in medical documentation. Prepare for medical transcription by applying industry standards, as presented in the AHDI Book of Style & Standards for Clinical Documentation. The course introduces information not encountered outside of healthcare documentation. Via the AHDI Book of Style & Standards for Clinical Documentation Workbook, students have access to online voice recording samples to provide an opportunity to practice transcribing medical dictation and applying the standards outlined in the textbook.
Prerequisite: HLTH 8007

BUSI8134 Occupational Health and Safety

This course introduces participants to the broad and ever-changing field of occupational health and safety, an inherently technical subject area. The multiple dimensions of the various issues--technical, legislative, political, and personal--are a required part of the training for a professional in this field or for someone who is involved with this kind of operation. Major topic areas include the Occupational Health and Safety Act, WCB, WHMIS, transportation of dangerous goods, accident prevention and investigation, physical and biological agents, and the management of Occupational Health and Safety programs.

HLTH8527 Pharmacology for Medical Office Professionals

Pharmacology for the medical office professional is intended to help medical office staff develop an understanding of how drugs work, drug classifications, methods of administration, and the major drug groups affecting the various body systems. Common drug examples will be looked at with each drug classification. The meaning of Doctor's Orders using commonly accepted medical abbreviations will also be discussed. This course is open to current employees in health-related areas or those who hope for such employment in the future.

HLTH8032 Understanding Medical Tests for Medical Office Staff

Designed for medical office professionals to assist in developing an understanding of common medical tests related to a wide variety of body systems. Knowledge in the area of medical testing will help the student to educate the patient in relation to the description and purpose of the test, preparation of the patient before the test, with care during and after the test, and expected results. Risks, complications, and special concerns are covered. This course is open to people currently employed in health related areas or hope to do so in the future.
Prerequisite: HLTH 8007

HLTH8033 Understanding Surgical Procedures for Medical Office Staff

This course has been designed for medical office professionals to assist in developing an understanding of common surgical procedures related to a wide variety of body systems. Knowledge in the area of surgical procedures will help the student to educate the patient prior to and after surgery, what to anticipate, and expected results. This course is open to people currently employed in health related areas or to those who hope to work in the health-care field in the future.
Prerequisite: HLTH 8007

COMP8535 Word Core

Learn to use MS Word 2019 or 365 for Windows, a word processing package that has the convenience and efficiencies of pull-down menus. Learn to create, edit, format and print documents. Use paragraph, page, and character formatting commands. Create multiple page documents with table, and desktop publishing.

HLTH8054 Working and Communicating in a Medical Setting

Learn theory and techniques for effective interactions and work skills in a wide variety of medical settings. Students will focus on developing their communication and human relations skills in addition to increasing their ability to navigate the medical settings including professional roles, responsibilities and professional development.

*Courses subject to change.

Additional courses information

Please note:

  • Courses should be completed in the order listed. Please take note of courses with pre-requisites or co-requisites. Registration requests may be denied if these have not been satisfied.
  • Students should complete all program requirements within seven years.
  • Students may apply to receive the credential after completing all required courses.
  • Visit Loyalist Focus for more information and to register for courses.

 

Required courses

COMM 8010

Communications: Grammar and Writing

COMP 8155

Introduction to Computers 1

HLTH 8007

Medical Terminology

HLTH 8054

Working and Communicating in a Medical Setting

COMP 8535

Word Core

HLTH 8107

Medical Office Procedures

HLTH 8528

Medical Conditions for Medical Office Professionals

HLTH 8527

Pharmacology for Medical Office Professionals

COMP 8522

Computer Keyboarding Skills I

HLTH 8032

Understanding Medical Tests for Medical Office Staff

HLTH 8103

Essentials in Health Records Management

HLTH 8067

Medical Terminology Level 2-Pronunciation

HLTH 8033

Understanding Surgical Procedures for Medical Office Staff

HLTH 8118

Medical OHIP Billing

BUSI 8055

Building and Maintaining Customer Relationships

HLTH 8153

Medical Transcription Styles and Practices

HLTH 8154

Medical Transcription Fundamentals

COMP 8156

Introduction to Computers 2

MATH 8002

Business Math

POLI 8013

Intercultural Communications

BUSI 8134

Occupational Health and Safety

ACCT 8003

Accounting Basics I

HLTH 8130

Beginning Medical Transcription

BUSI 8091

Critical & Creative Thinking

COMM 8001

Communications

ACCT 8019

Computerized Accounting

BUSI 8185

Ethical Issues in Business

HLTH 8131

Advanced Medical Transcription

Plus THREE

General Education courses

 

For information about courses that are currently available, visit Loyalist Focus.

Admission Requirements

This program is open for enrolment on a course-by-course basis. Students should possess an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent, or be classified as a mature student (19 years of age or older without an OSSD) prior to registering for courses.

Costs

Approximate costs (2024–25)

Course availability and costs can be found at Loyalist Focus. 

Paying for college

At Loyalist College, we believe that cost should never be a barrier to your success. We’re here to help you navigate the costs of college and connect you with a variety of financial aid programs and resources. Learn more about paying for college and OSAP for students completing distance education programs.

Further study

Pathways and university transfer

What’s next? Build on the knowledge and skills you learned at Loyalist by continuing your academic journey. Return to Loyalist to complete a second diploma or a post-graduate program in as little as a year, or receive credit recognition for your Loyalist studies when pursuing a degree at a university. Explore pathway opportunities.

Related programs

Back to program search
Two dental office administrators collaborating at the reception desk, using digital tools.

Dental Office Administration

Develop the specialized skills and professionalism needed for a rewarding career as a dental office administrator. Learn how to manage essential systems, software and communications that keep a dental office running smoothly while supporting exceptional patient care.
Woman wearing professional attire shakes hands with a man in an office environment. She is holding a document folder under her arm.

Office Administration – Legal (Online)

Gain the skills for a vital role in a fast-paced, precision-driven law office. Through courses simulating real-world legal practices, master legal forms and processes while acquiring expertise in transcription, record keeping, accounting and office administration.
Smiling man wearing professional attire works on a laptop in an office environment.

Office Administration – Executive (Online)

Learn online at your own pace and build on what you learned in the Office Administration – General program. Enhance your skills in organization, information management and communication to support executive-level operations.