Qualifications

AMSPAR is an Awarding Body, recognised by the Department for Education and Skills.

A range of qualifications are offered.

Medical Terminology

Medical terminology is at the heart of healthcare, whether NHS or private and is used in every specialty. If you are a secretary, receptionist, manager or, indeed, employed in any administrative grade, the chances are that you will need a good grasp of medical terminology to do your job effectively.

The AMSPAR Level 3 Certificate in Medical Terminology

for Non-clinical Professionals

This well-respected award is suitable for those working in health care who wish to add a medical terminology qualification to their skills and knowledge or for individuals thinking about changing career direction. This programme can be studied through an AMSPAR approved centre or at home.

Since 1998 our medical terminology certificate has become increasingly popular and, with a pass mark of 75%, represents real ability in medical terminology. It is a widely recognised qualification and would be a rewarding addition to your skills and qualifications. The AMSPAR Level 3 Certificate in Medical Terminology for Non-clinical Professionals is accredited by the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority within the National Qualifications Framework. This means that it is eligible for public funding through the Learning and Skills Council.

Exams are held in February, May and November to allow candidates to sit them at a time most convenient to them.

The Syllabus

Knowledge Content

Origins of structure and medical terms
Prefixes, roots and suffixes - composition of medical words
Terminology of body structures, systems, diseases and conditions
Surgical and medical procedures and investigations
Terminology of pathology and x-ray investigations and procedures
Classification of drugs and prescription abbreviations
Eponyms, acronyms and abbreviations in common use
Titles, professional qualifications, professional bodies relevant to medicine and their abbreviations

Correct spelling of medical terminology is a requirement for this paper

Objectives

The candidate should be able to:

Demonstrate the correct use of medical prefixes, roots and suffixes
Give the meanings of medical terms and abbreviations in common use, including body structures and systems
Apply correct medical terms and abbreviations
Demonstrate the correct use of abbreviations used in prescriptions
Demonstrate the correct use of interpretation of titles, professional qualifications and professional bodies applicable to medicine

Please note: there is no fixed word list for this qualification

A student guide pack, including sample questions is available from AMSPAR.

The Association of Medical Secretaries, Practice Managers, Administrators and Receptionists
Registered Charity Number 313310. Registered in England and Wales, Company Number 850300.
Tavistock House North, Tavistock Square, London WC1H 9LN
Telephone: 020 7387 6005, Fax: 020 7388 2648