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Amanda McKinney, MD, FACLM

Medicine has a very distinct and highly specialized language. It is necessary for any student wishing to pursue a successful career in the medical field to acquire comprehension in this system of communication, including Allied Healthcare professionals. Learners will receive thorough instruction in developing fluency with medical terms. Medical vocabulary will be taught with specific emphasis on root (or stem words), prefixes, suffixes and abbreviations. By the end of this course learners will be expected to have a basic comprehension of medical terms and be able to communicate accurately to their peers in the field.

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Medicine has a very distinct and highly specialized language. It is necessary for any student wishing to pursue a successful career in the medical field to acquire comprehension in this system of communication, including Allied Healthcare professionals. Learners will receive thorough instruction in developing fluency with medical terms. Medical vocabulary will be taught with specific emphasis on root (or stem words), prefixes, suffixes and abbreviations. By the end of this course learners will be expected to have a basic comprehension of medical terms and be able to communicate accurately to their peers in the field.

Terms associated with anatomy, physiology, pathology and diagnostic tests of different systems are discussed but no previous knowledge of these topics is necessary.

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What's inside

Learning objectives

  • Identify and interpret common prefixes, and suffixes used in medical terms
  • Determine the meaning of stem words to break down complex medical terms and their components to decipher the meaning.
  • Use common medical abbreviations in typical medical documents to interpret a physician’s shortened notes
  • Write and apply medical terms in a suitable context in reports and other forms of medical documentation

Good to know

Know what's good
, what to watch for
, and possible dealbreakers
Teaches fundamental principles of medical terminology
Offers a strong foundation for students in the medical field
Aligned with medical field
Covers key terminology associated with anatomy, physiology, pathology, and diagnostic tests
Instructors are experienced medical professionals
Provides an understanding of common medical abbreviations

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Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Medical Terminology with these activities:
Review Basic Anatomy and Physiology Concepts
Strengthen your understanding of the human body to enhance your grasp of medical terminology.
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  • Refer to introductory anatomy and physiology textbooks or online resources.
  • Focus on understanding the major body systems and their functions.
  • Create diagrams or flashcards to reinforce your knowledge.
Review medical terminology basics
Review the basics of medical terminology to build a stronger foundation for the course.
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  • Review prefixes and suffixes
  • Practice using medical terms in context
Explore Online Tutorials on Medical Terminology
Enhance your understanding through structured and interactive online tutorials.
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  • Identify reputable online platforms offering medical terminology tutorials.
  • Follow along with the tutorials and complete associated exercises.
  • Engage in online discussions or forums to connect with other learners.
  • Utilize the tutorials as refresher material throughout the course.
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Review previous anatomy and physiology
Revising your knowledge of the structure and function of the human body will help you understand medical terminology more easily.
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  • Review your notes or textbooks from previous anatomy and physiology courses.
  • Take practice quizzes or tests to assess your understanding.
  • Use online resources, such as videos or simulations, to visualize and reinforce your knowledge.
Watch video tutorials on medical terminology
Supplement your learning with visual aids and expert explanations.
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  • Search for video tutorials on YouTube or other platforms
  • Take notes on key concepts
Participate in Medical Terminology Study Groups
Collaborate with peers to enhance your understanding and retention of medical terms.
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  • Form or join a study group.
  • Share your knowledge and insights.
  • Engage in discussions and quizzes.
  • Provide and receive feedback on medical term interpretations.
Participate in online discussion forums
Engaging in discussions with peers will provide you with diverse perspectives and reinforce your understanding.
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  • Join online discussion forums or study groups related to medical terminology.
  • Participate in discussions by asking questions, sharing insights, and providing feedback to others.
  • Use the discussions to clarify concepts and expand your knowledge.
Complete Medical Term Deciphering Exercises
Engage in targeted practice to enhance your ability to decode and interpret medical terms.
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  • Utilize online interactive exercises or textbooks.
  • Practice deciphering terms based on their components.
  • Identify the meaning of medical abbreviations.
  • Time yourself to improve your speed and accuracy.
Practice medical abbreviation drills
Regular practice with medical abbreviations will improve your fluency and accuracy in using them.
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  • Use online platforms or apps that provide interactive drills.
  • Create your own flashcards or cheat sheets for commonly used abbreviations.
  • Take quizzes or tests to test your knowledge.
Complete practice exercises on medical terms
Reinforce your understanding of medical terms through repetitive exercises.
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  • Complete exercises in the course textbook
  • Use online practice drills
Join a study group or online forum
Connect with peers to discuss concepts and share insights.
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  • Find a study group or online forum
  • Participate actively in discussions
Create a Medical Terminology Glossary
Develop a comprehensive glossary to solidify your understanding and aid in retention.
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  • Identify and list commonly encountered medical terms.
  • Break down terms into root words, prefixes, and suffixes.
  • Define each component and provide examples.
  • Organize your glossary alphabetically or by medical specialty.
Create a medical term glossary
Solidify your understanding by creating a personal reference tool.
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  • Compile a list of unfamiliar terms
  • Define each term using a dictionary or online resources
  • Organize the terms into categories
Create medical term flashcards
Creating your own flashcards will help you memorize medical terms and their meanings effectively.
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  • Identify the most important medical terms from the course material.
  • Write the term on one side of the card and the definition on the other.
  • Use color coding or highlighting to categorize the terms.
Connect with healthcare professionals
Seek guidance from experts in the field.
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  • Attend industry events or conferences
  • Reach out to professionals via LinkedIn or email
Complete Diagnostic Tests on Medical Terminology
Evaluate your progress and identify areas for improvement through diagnostic tests.
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  • Take online or textbook-based diagnostic tests.
  • Analyze your results to identify strengths and weaknesses.
  • Focus your practice on areas where you need improvement.
  • Track your progress over time.
Compile a Collection of Medical Term Resources
Gather and organize a variety of resources to support your ongoing learning and reference needs.
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  • Identify and curate reliable online resources, textbooks, and apps.
  • Categorize and organize the resources based on topics or difficulty.
  • Create a digital or physical compilation for easy access.
  • Share your compilation with classmates or instructors.

Career center

Learners who complete Medical Terminology will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Medical Transcriptionist
Medical Transcriptionists listen to recorded dictation from physicians and other healthcare professionals and transcribe it into written reports. This course will provide you with the skills you need to succeed as a Medical Transcriptionist, including a strong understanding of medical terminology and the ability to type quickly and accurately.
Medical Assistant
Medical Assistants perform clinical and administrative tasks to support the work of physicians and other healthcare professionals. This course is an excellent introduction to the medical field and will provide you with the foundation you need to succeed as a Medical Assistant. You will learn how to interpret medical terms, use common medical abbreviations, and write and apply medical terms in a variety of contexts.
Medical Coder
Medical Coders assign codes to medical diagnoses and procedures for billing purposes. This course will provide you with the foundation you need to succeed as a Medical Coder, including a strong understanding of medical terminology and the ability to interpret medical records.
Medical Secretary
Medical Secretaries perform administrative tasks in a medical setting, such as scheduling appointments, answering phones, and managing patient records. This course will provide you with the skills you need to succeed as a Medical Secretary, including a strong understanding of medical terminology and the ability to communicate effectively with patients and healthcare professionals.
Medical Records Technician
Medical Records Technicians manage and organize medical records for patients. This course will provide you with the skills you need to succeed as a Medical Records Technician, including a strong understanding of medical terminology and the ability to maintain accurate and confidential records.
Pharmacy Technician
Pharmacy Technicians assist pharmacists in dispensing medications and providing patient care. This course will provide you with the foundation you need to succeed as a Pharmacy Technician, including a strong understanding of medical terminology and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment.
Surgical Technologist
Surgical Technologists assist surgeons during surgery. This course will provide you with the foundation you need to succeed as a Surgical Technologist, including a strong understanding of medical terminology and the ability to work in a sterile environment.
Veterinary Technician
Veterinary Technicians provide care to animals under the supervision of a veterinarian. This course will provide you with the foundation you need to succeed as a Veterinary Technician, including a strong understanding of medical terminology and the ability to work with animals.
Patient Care Technician
Patient Care Technicians provide basic care to patients in a variety of settings, such as hospitals, nursing homes, and clinics. This course will provide you with the skills you need to succeed as a Patient Care Technician, including a strong understanding of medical terminology and the ability to work with patients from all walks of life.
Medical Claims Examiner
Medical Claims Examiners review medical claims for accuracy and completeness. This course will provide you with the skills you need to succeed as a Medical Claims Examiner, including a strong understanding of medical terminology and the ability to interpret medical records.
Nurse Aide
Nurse Aides provide basic care to patients in a variety of settings, such as hospitals, nursing homes, and clinics. This course will provide you with the skills you need to succeed as a Nurse Aide, including a strong understanding of medical terminology and the ability to work with patients from all walks of life.
Phlebotomist
Phlebotomists draw blood from patients for testing. This course may be helpful for those interested in becoming a Phlebotomist, as it will provide you with a foundation in medical terminology and the skills you need to draw blood safely and efficiently.
Dental Assistant
Dental Assistants provide chairside assistance to dentists. This course may be helpful for those interested in becoming a Dental Assistant, as it will provide you with a foundation in medical terminology and the skills you need to work in a dental office.
Medical Equipment Repair Technician
Medical Equipment Repair Technicians maintain and repair medical equipment. This course may be helpful for those interested in becoming a Medical Equipment Repair Technician, as it will provide you with a foundation in medical terminology and the skills you need to work with medical equipment.
Medical Device Sales Representative
Medical Device Sales Representatives sell medical devices to hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare providers. This course may be helpful for those interested in becoming a Medical Device Sales Representative, as it will provide you with a foundation in medical terminology and the skills you need to communicate effectively with healthcare professionals.

Reading list

We've selected 12 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Medical Terminology.
Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine comprehensive textbook of internal medicine, providing detailed coverage of all major topics.
This textbook comprehensive guide to medical terminology, providing a detailed explanation of prefixes, suffixes, and root words. Ideal for both students and professionals, the text features interactive exercises and practice questions
Stedman's Medical Dictionary classic medical dictionary, providing clear and comprehensive definitions for over 100,000 terms. Includes detailed appendices and helpful illustrations.
Guyton and Hall classic textbook of physiology, providing a detailed and comprehensive overview of the human body's functions.
Robbins Basic Pathology comprehensive textbook of pathology, providing a detailed overview of the causes and effects of disease.
Berne & Levy is another authoritative physiology textbook, offering a clear and concise presentation of the subject. Includes helpful illustrations and clinical correlations.
Junqueira's Basic Histology classic histology textbook, providing a clear and concise overview of the subject. Includes high-quality illustrations and clinical correlations.
Wheater's Functional Histology provides a comprehensive overview of human histology, with a focus on the functional aspects of tissues and organs.
This illustrated textbook provides a concise and visual overview of pathology, making it accessible to students and professionals alike.

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