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Enrollment Deadline - April 10th, 2026

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HCA106 — Foundations of The United States Healthcare System

AAS in Healthcare Administration

Course ID: HCA106
Course Credits: 4

AAS in Healthcare Administration Program Availability:

California Institution
New Mexico Institution

About HCA106 — Foundations of The United States Healthcare System

This course introduces students to how healthcare is organized, delivered, and financed in the U.S. The course covers major components of the system, including care settings, healthcare providers, insurance and reimbursement models, and the government’s role in policy and regulation. Students will learn to recognize and differentiate between commercial insurance plans such as PPOs, HMOs, and Advantage plans, as well as government programs including Medicare, Medicaid, and TRICARE. Emphasis is also placed on complying with privacy laws (HIPAA, HITECH) and reporting medical emergencies as required by law. The course addresses challenges related to access, cost, quality, and equity, while also exploring emerging trends such as telehealth and value-based care. By the end of the course, students will understand how the U.S. healthcare system functions and the vital role administrative professionals play in supporting efficient operations.

Required Materials

Textbook

Jonas’ Introduction to the U.S. Health Care System, 10th Edition

Raymond L. Goldsteen; Raymond Goldsteen; Karen Goldsteen

9780826180728 / 9780826180735

California Institution

401 Mile of Cars Way #100, National City, CA 91950

New Mexico Institution

1717 Louisiana Blvd., NE., Suite 208 Albuquerque, NM, 87110

California Institute of Applied Technology participates in the State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements.

Phone

(877) 559-3621

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California Institution

New Mexico Institution

California Institute of Applied Technology has shared ownership and management of two distinct institutions. California Institute of Applied Technology located in California, and California Institute of Applied Technology located in New Mexico.

GI Bill® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). More information about education benefits offered by VA is available at the official U.S. government website at https://www.benefits.va.gov/gibill. CIAT is approved to offer VA benefits. *Financial aid is available for those who qualify. *Students are encouraged to take certification exams while actively enrolled in their Certificate or Degree program. Unlimited certification exam attempts expire 180 days after graduation. Select exams are not eligible for unlimited retakes - see certification exam policy for details. Certifications or courses may change to address industry trends or improve quality