Medical Assistant Program Receives 10-Year Continuing CAAHEP Accreditation

Luverne, MN — Minnesota West Community and Technical College is celebrating the continued accreditation of its Medical Assistant Diploma Program at the Luverne campus. Following a recommendation from the Medical Assisting Education Review Board (MAERB), the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) has awarded the program 10 years of continuing accreditation, effective in March.

This status represents the maximum accreditation award granted by CAAHEP and reflects the program’s sustained compliance with national educational standards. Programs receiving this designation are placed on CAAHEP’s longest review cycle—10 years—with the next comprehensive evaluation scheduled for Spring 2035. Maintaining this level of accreditation requires ongoing annual reporting as well as a comprehensive, top‑to‑bottom evaluation that includes a required site visit.

CAAHEP accreditation verifies that the Medical Assisting Program remains in compliance with nationally established standards designed to ensure high‑quality education and student outcomes.

“Choosing a CAAHEP‑accredited program is crucial for students seeking a career in allied health,” said Dr. Barry S. Eckert, President of CAAHEP. “It ensures that they receive an education that is comprehensive, relevant, and responsive to current industry needs.”

Jessie Wichmann, Medical Assistant Program Coordinator and Instructor, shared her enthusiasm for the program’s continued success.

“This accreditation confirms the strength of our curriculum and the exceptional efforts of our students and faculty. It assures employers that our graduates are prepared to deliver quality patient care from day one.”

Graduation from a CAAHEP‑accredited Medical Assisting program is required for eligibility to sit for the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA‑AAMA) examination, making this accreditation essential for student career advancement.