Fall 2025 Course Syllabus
Course: POFM-1202 (Section: 71, CRN: 93444) Medical Software Applications
Instructor Information
Instructor
Tonya Harbert
Email
keithtj@lamarpa.edu
Phone
(409) 984-6501
Office
Umphrey Industrial Technology Center - Room: 201H
Office Hours
Tuesday & Thursday 10:00am - 3:00pm
Additional Contact Information
Office visits are by appointment only. Please note that the instructor may not be in the office or on campus outside of scheduled hours, and may also be in other areas of campus during office hours. To ensure availability, it is best to call or email in advance to schedule a meeting. Virtual and phone appointments are also available.
Course Information
Description
Medical software applications for the management and operation of health care information systems.
Required Textbooks
Textbook Purchasing Statement: A student attending Lamar State College Port Arthur is not under any obligation to purchase a textbook from the college-affiliated bookstore. The same textbook may also be available from an independent retailer, including an online retailer.
(Once the publisher and bookstore make them available, students will have immediate access through Blackboard by clicking the links in the course.)
Additional Materials/Resources
None.
Corequisites/Prerequisites
NONE REQUIRED, but suggested prerequisite: Basic keyboarding and computer skills
Learning Outcomes
WECM Course Information
End-of-Course Outcomes:
Utilize medical software applications
Manage patient database
Process billing
Maintain schedules
Generate reports Lab Recommended
Key Matrix – Medical Office Administration Program
1. Manage Policies & Procedures for Protected Health Information
1.2 Develop forms/templates for health information system
1.3 Monitor patient portal
1.4 Inspect medical records
2. Coordinate Information Technology Resources
2.1 Assess equipment and software inventory
2.2 Maintain Practice Management Software
2.4 Troubleshoot hardware equipment problems
3. Manage Practice Operations
3.2 Manage patient scheduling process
5. Manage Billing Cycle of Practice
5.2 Conduct chart audits
5.4 Analyze bad debt
7. Manage Practice Financials
7.3 Prepare practice productivity report
Key Matrix – Medical Coding Program
3. Maintains Accurate and Complete Patient Health Records
3.2 Ensures that medical records are complete, including: medical history, care or treatment plans, tests ordered & results, diagnosis, medications taken
5. Maintains Appropriate Technology Solutions
5.2 Stay apprised of innovative solutions for integrating new technology into existing products, applications, or services
5.3 Identify and clarify user needs (internal and external customers) and organizational policies to ensure system architecture and applications align with business requirements
Program Student Learning Outcomes
Associate of Applied Science Medical Coding Specialist Program Learning Outcomes
1.Identify, pronounce, and spell medical terms.
2.Translate and interpret health abbreviations and symbols.
3.Utilize medical software applications.
4.Extract information from health records for appropriate code validation.
5.Sequence codes according to established guidelines and standards.
6.Analyze current health care trends.
Associate of Applied Science Medical Office Administration Program Learning Outcomes
1.Utilize computer software for basic office functions.
2.Uses medical terminology, jargon, and abbreviations correctly.
3.Define general legal terms as they apply to the practice of medicine in ambulatory care settings.
4.Understand and apply ethics relevant to medical coding and medical office practice.
5.Apply ICD and CPT rules and guidelines to complete claims forms for submission.
Lecture Topics Outline
Unit 1: Introduction
Overview of Practice Management and Electronic Medical Records
Unit 2: Administrative
Patient Registration and Data Entry
Scheduling, Rescheduling, and Canceling Appointments
Preparing for Patient Appointments
Checking in Patients and Verifying Insurance Eligibility
Posting Insurance Copayments
Unit 3: Clinical
Documenting Clinical Encounters
Managing Provider Orders and Patient Communication
Working with Prescriptions and eRx
Preparing Electronic Encounter Forms for Billing
Unit 4: Billing
Medical Billing
Patient Collections
Learning Path:
Readings: Short readings introduce key components of Practice Management and Electronic Medical Record software.
Practice Mode Simulations (NOT part of course average): Students are guided through each task in PM/EMR software with step-by-step instructions. Hints are available for additional support. Features include Learning Objectives, Key Terms, FYIs, and Alerts.
Assessment Mode Simulations: Students perform tasks without hints or additional support, testing their knowledge.
Quiz: Multiple-choice quizzes assess understanding of key concepts related to PM/EMRs.
Major Assignments Schedule
Course Schedule – MOSS Practice Management & EMR
All coursework is due the following Tuesday at 10 a.m.
Week
Dates
Topics / Modules
Notes / Due Dates
1
Aug 25–31
Orientation & Course Introduction
Due Sept 2
2
Sept 1–7
Module 1: Introduction to PM & EMRs Introduction Unit Test
Due Sept 9
📌 Labor Day Holiday Sept 1
3
Sept 8–14
Module 2: Patient Registration
Due Sept 16
📌 Census Date Sept 10
4
Sept 15–21
Module 3: Appointment Scheduling
Due Sept 23
5
Sept 22–28
Module 4: Preparing for Patient Appointments
Due Sept 30
📌 Final Day to Drop w/o Penalty Sept 29
6
Sept 29–Oct 5
Module 5: Checking in Patients
Due Oct 7
7
Oct 6–12
Module 6: Posting Insurance Co-Payments
Due Oct 14
8
Oct 13–19
Module 7: Completing Administrative Requests Administrative Unit Test Administrative Capstone Simulation
Due Oct 21
9
Oct 20–26
Module 8: Documenting Clinical Encounters
Due Oct 28
10
Oct 27–Nov 2
Module 9: Managing Provider Orders & Patient Communication
Due Nov 4
11
Nov 3–9
Module 10: Working with Prescriptions and eRx
Due Nov 11
12
Nov 10–16
Module 11: Preparing Electronic Encounter Forms for Billing Clinical Unit Test Clinical Capstone Simulation
Due Nov 18
13
Nov 17–23
Module 12: Billing Insurance
Due Nov 25
📌 Final Day to Drop with Penalty Nov 24
14
Nov 24–30
Module 13: Posting & Tracking Insurance Payments
Module 14: Patient Billing & Collections MOSS Final Test
Due Dec 2
📌 Energy Conservation Day Nov 26
📌 Thanksgiving Holiday Nov 27–28
15–16
Dec 1–11
MOSS Capstone Simulation (Final Exam Grade)
Final Exam Due Dec 9 (Tue)
Success Tip for MOSS Modules & Capstones
Students are strongly encouraged to keep a dedicated notebook for this course.
As you work through each module, take step-by-step notes on the instructions, processes, and workflows.
Write down details such as how to register patients, schedule appointments, post payments, and complete forms.
These notes will serve as your personal reference guide and will be extremely helpful when completing the Capstone Simulations.
Remember, the Capstone Simulations are designed to test your ability to apply what you’ve learned — using your own notes is the best way to succeed.
Course Expectations & Guidelines
Monitor Course Communication Regularly
• Check Announcements, Emails, and Course Content multiple times each week.
• Stay informed to ensure you don’t miss updates or important information.
Stay on Top of Assignments and Deadlines
• Assignments and due dates are posted in the course.
• Use the Calendar, Announcements, Email, and To-Do List to stay organized.
• If coursework is made available in Blackboard, you are encouraged to work ahead of scheduled weeks and due dates.
Changes May Occur
• The instructor reserves the right to modify assignments, due dates, or course work during the semester. Check email several times a week for course announcements.
• It is your responsibility to remain active in the course and stay updated with all posted changes.
Always Use Blackboard Links
• Complete assignments through links provided in Blackboard to ensure your grades post properly in the course on Blackboard. If you do not do this, you may be required to re-do assignments.
• Not all assignments in Cengage's MindTap will be assigned or required.
• Do not go directly to the publisher’s website unless directed by the instructor.
• Always rely on Blackboard links for guidance.
Submit Work on Time
• Turn in all work by the posted due date or as outlined in verbal or written instructions.
• Refer to the Late Work Policy below for details.
Final Exam Date
December 1, 2025 - 8:00 AM
Through December 9, 2025 - 10:00 AM
Assignments/Quizzes/Module Simulations/etc. 50%
Test and Capstone Simulations 50%
Course Policies
Instructor Policies
Assessment Methods & Grading
Grade Tracking: Students are responsible for keeping track of their grades and course average. Grades will be posted in the Blackboard gradebook once assignments are graded. The instructor will not average grades for students.
Assignment Changes: The instructor reserves the right to add or modify assignments during the semester.
Grade Policy: The instructor will not drop grades.
Assessment: Each module targets specific learning outcomes. Some activities may enhance learning but may not be graded. Assessments may include assignments, quizzes, discussions, labs, participation, exams, or other methods.
Due Dates: Coursework due dates are posted weekly in the course.
Instructions: Detailed instructions and grading information will be provided for each assignment. Students are expected to read all instructions carefully.
Early Completion: If coursework is available in advance, students are encouraged to complete it ahead of the scheduled due dates.
Class Participation
Participation is required and directly affects the course average. Simply logging in or “clicking around” does not count; students must actively engage with course materials.
The instructor may use course activity and attendance to help determine participation grades.
Students must check announcements and emails at least three times per week.
Assignments
No make-up assignments. Late work will not be accepted. Any missed assignment will receive a grade of zero (0).
Quizzes
No make-up quizzes. Missed quizzes will receive a grade of zero (0). Once closed, quizzes cannot be retaken.
Exams
No make-up exams. Missed exams will be recorded as zero (0).
At the end of the semester, the average of all exam grades (including zeros) will replace the zero for the missed exam.
Example: Test grades = 100, 100, 0, 80 → Average = 70. The zero is replaced with 70, resulting in grades of 100, 100, 70, 80.
Exemption Opportunity: Students who have completed and passed all exams and maintain a grade of 80 or higher may be exempt from the final comprehensive capstone simulation. If exempt, the average of other exam grades will serve as the final exam grade. If criteria are not met, missing the final exam will result in a zero (0).
Academic Dishonesty
Any assignment or exam involving academic dishonesty will result in a zero (0).
A second offense will result in an “F” for the course.
Attendance Policy
ATTENDANCE POLICY (ONLINE CLASS)
Research has shown a strong connection between attendance and college success. In an online course, “attendance” is measured by your regular activity and participation in Blackboard. The instructor monitors student course activity weekly.
Students are expected to log in to Blackboard and check announcements and email at least three times per week, even if they believe all work is complete.
Class participation is required and directly impacts your course average. Simply logging in is not enough—students must engage with course materials and activities. Additional assignments may be added during the week if the instructor determines they are necessary. Weekly activity in the course may be used as a participation grade.
It is the student’s responsibility to notify the instructor by email if they will be absent from the course for any reason. However, absences do not extend due dates, and coursework must still be completed on time.
This course is designed to be completed on a laptop or desktop computer. Students often miss important information and assignments when attempting to use a mobile device.
Students may use the computers in the LSCPA computer lab if needed. A student ID is required. LSCPA also offers a laptop loan program for students who need to borrow a computer for the semester.
METHODS OF PRESENTATION
Course materials may be presented using a variety of methods, including:
Lecture (PowerPoint slides, interactive notes, video, or audio sources)
Lab exercises, discussion boards, and similar activities
Internet resources
LAPTOP LOAN PROGRAM
LSCPA offers a laptop loan program on a first-come, first-served basis. Students may fill out the online application on the LSCPA website by searching “Laptop Loan Program” in the search bar.
SOFTWARE REQUIREMENTS
Students are required to have all necessary course materials, including (but not limited to) software, e-books, key codes, and any other items needed to complete assignments and readings. Reliable internet access is required for all online courses.
Students without reliable internet access may use the LSCPA open computer lab.
Note: Computer failure and lack of internet access are not acceptable excuses for missed assignments, projects, quizzes, or exams.
DROP/WITHDRAWAL POLICY
Students who decide to drop/withdraw must verify that the request is submitted before the final withdrawal date.
It is the student’s responsibility to ensure their name is removed from the roll if they drop/withdraw.
Students are strongly encouraged to retain a copy of their drop/withdrawal form for records.
Any books, equipment, or items belonging to the department must be returned; failure to do so may compromise a student’s standing with LSCPA.
State law permits students to withdraw from no more than six courses during their undergraduate career at Texas public colleges/universities (with certain exceptions). All withdrawals after the “no penalty” date count toward this limit. See the LSCPA catalog for full details.
E-MAIL & VOICE MAIL ETIQUETTE
Emails must use professional etiquette, including complete sentences and a full subject line with the student’s name, course name, and section number.
Voice mail messages must clearly include the student’s name, course, and a return phone number.
DRESS FOR SUCCESS (For On-Campus Meetings/Classes)
As future professionals, students are encouraged to practice dressing appropriately. While casual attire is permitted, clothing should reflect respect for the class environment.
Students may be asked to leave class if their attire is inappropriate or distracting; this will be recorded as an absence.
Inappropriate attire includes but is not limited to:
Clothing that exposes intimate body parts
Wearing only undergarments (e.g., sports bras, boxers)
Sleepwear (pajamas, robes, slippers)
Clothing that is excessively tight or loose
Clothing with offensive or inappropriate logos/text
BULLYING POLICY
Lamar State College Port Arthur is committed to maintaining a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment for all students, faculty, and staff. Bullying of any kind is strictly prohibited and will not be tolerated in academic, clinical, or online settings.
Definition of Bullying
Bullying is defined as repeated, unwanted, aggressive behavior that involves a real or perceived power imbalance. Bullying can be verbal, social, physical, or digital in nature and may include (but is not limited to):
Verbal abuse, name-calling, or threats
Intimidation or humiliation
Spreading rumors or false information
Excluding others intentionally from activities or group participation
Cyberbullying or inappropriate use of digital platforms (e.g., email, discussion boards, video conferencing, publisher platforms, or social media)
Scope: This policy applies to all students, faculty, and staff in:
Face-to-face environments such as classrooms, clinical sites, labs, and simulations
Online environments including (but not limited to) Blackboard, publisher platforms, discussion boards, email, video conferences, and other digital platforms
Any school-sponsored activity or event
Reporting Process
Any student who experiences or witnesses bullying is encouraged to report the incident to a faculty member, program coordinator, or the department chair. Reports will be handled confidentially and investigated promptly.
Consequences
Verified incidents of bullying may result in disciplinary action, including but not limited to:
Verbal or written warnings
Documentation in the student’s file
Dismissal from the program
Referral to college administration in accordance with institutional policy
IMPORTANT NOTE
Exceptions and/or changes may be made to information in this syllabus at the instructor’s discretion.
Institutional Policies
MyLSCPA
Be sure to check your campus email and Course Homepage using MyLSCPA campus web portal. You can also access your grades, transcripts, academic advisors, degree progress, and other services through
MyLSCPA.
Academic Honesty
Academic honesty is expected from all students, and dishonesty in any form will not be tolerated. Please consult the LSCPA policies (Academic Dishonesty section in the Student Handbook) for consequences of academic dishonesty.
ADA Considerations
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is a federal anti-discrimination statute that provides comprehensive
civil rights for persons with disabilities. Among other things, this legislation requires that all students
with disabilities be guaranteed a learning environment that provides for reasonable accommodation of their
disabilities. If you believe you have a disability requiring an accommodation, please contact the
Disability Services Coordinator, Room 117, in the Student Sucess Center. The phone number is (409) 984-6241.
COVID 19 Information
The Lamar State College Port Arthur (LSCPA) Student Code of Conduct COVID 19 Policy requires students who have been diagnosed with COVID 19 to report their condition directly to their local health department. Students should also contact their course faculty to report their quarantine status. In addition, this policy requires all students to wear face coverings when directly exposed to COVID 19 in compliance with the criteria included in the policy. For more information please refer to the COVID 19 link on the LSCPA website.
Facility Policies
No food or tobacco products are allowed in the classroom. Only students enrolled in the course are allowed in the classroom, except by special instructor permission. Use of electronic devices is prohibited.
HB 2504
This syllabus is part of LSCPA's efforts to comply with Texas House Bill 2504.
Mandatory Reporting of Child Abuse and Neglect
As per Texas law and LSCPA policy, all LSCPA employees, including faculty, are required to report allegations or disclosures of child abuse or neglect to the designated authorities, which may include a local or state law enforcement agency or the Texas Department of Family Protective Services. For more information about mandatory reporting requirements, see
LSCPA's Policy and Procedure Manual.
Title IX and Sexual Misconduct
LSCPA is committed to establishing and maintaining an environment that is free from all forms of sex discrimination, including sexual harassment, sexual violence, and other forms of sexual misconduct. All LSCPA employees, including faculty, have the responsibility to report disclosures of sexual misconduct, including sexual harassment, sexual assault (including rape and acquaintance rape), domestic violence, dating violence, relationship violence, or stalking, to LSCPA's Title IX Coordinator, whose role is to coordinate the college's response to sexual misconduct. For more information about Title IX protections, faculty reporting responsibilities, options for confidential reporting, and the resources available for support visit LSCPA's Title IX website.
If you have a grievance, complaint, or concern about this course that has not been resolved through discussion with the Instructor, please consult the Department Chair.
