Husband and wife duo find work-life balance through CFCC

Tim and Jeanette Buchanan made a significant move in pursuit of a more fulfilling lifestyle. Lured by the coastal climate and hopes of a better life, the couple relocated from Ohio to the Wilmington area while retaining their positions with a national retail pharmacy chain.

Despite the picturesque coastal surroundings, the idyllic lifestyle they had envisioned remained elusive. Their conflicting work schedules left them with little opportunity to spend time together.

Driven by her growing dissatisfaction with her current job, Jeanette felt compelled to take a bold step – pursuing a new career path. So, she turned to CFCC to explore new career training options.

“We wanted more out of life and a better work-life balance,” explained Jeannette. “We were looking for a career transition that was going to be sustainable. Entering the medical field felt like the right decision.”

WHAT IS CHAA?

Jeanette was drawn to the healthcare industry but had no interest in hands-on medical care. During her research into administrative healthcare career opportunities, she stumbled upon a job posting that sought CHAA certification, sparking her curiosity.

CHAA, short for Certified Healthcare Access Associate, is a highly sought-after credential that confirms the skills of professionals working in medical office settings. To obtain this certification, students undergo training that covers the basics of medical terminology, anatomy, and physiology.

Ready to get started in her new career choice, Jeanette enrolled in CFCC’s Certified Healthcare Access Associate program to train and prepare for the national CHAA exam.

“You do not need a medical background to begin this training,” Jeanette commented. “The program is perfect for beginners. It’s an ideal starting point for those seeking a career in healthcare information or medical office administration.”

SETTING THE EXAMPLE

Jeanette, understanding Tim’s initial reluctance, gently encouraged him to join her in pursuing the CHAA courses. Despite his initial resistance, she forged ahead with her own plans to enroll in the course, serving as a source of motivation for both of them to embark on this new educational journey together.

Tim’s decision to join Jeanette in registering for the CHAA courses turned out to be a pivotal moment in their lives. As he immersed himself in the program, he not only kept pace but excelled, fast-tracking his journey toward a new career in the healthcare industry.

“The certification classes are the building blocks for a medical office career,” Tim shared. “Just pursuing the certification opened a lot of doors. Before we finished the program, I was working in a medical office.”

OVERCOMING OBSTACLES

Like many adult learners, Tim and Jeanette had concerns about starting at entry-level positions and experiencing a salary decrease while pursuing their education.

Additionally, the financial burden of paying for school weighed on their minds.
However, CFCC provided invaluable assistance in securing grants and funding options, making their educational pursuits financially feasible. This support not only eased the financial strain but also reaffirmed their commitment to their educational and career goals, demonstrating the importance of accessible education for adult learners seeking to advance their lives.

“Ultimately, I only lost eleven cents an hour when I accepted my first new job working the front desk of a medical office,” commented Tim. “But, more than that, I lost a ton of stress from my previous job and gained back my holidays, nights, and weekends. It was a wonderful transition.”

FOLLOWING THE PATH TO SUCCESS

The guidance Tim and Jeanette received left them well-prepared to tackle their certification exams and enter the workforce with confidence. Buoyed by their newfound skills and knowledge, Tim and Jeanette decided to take their educational journey further by pursuing associate degrees.

Now, they both work at Novant Health New Hanover Regional Medical Center. Jeanette works as an Electronic Medical Records Specialist in Health Information Management. Tim serves as an Oncology Data Analyst and Certified Tumor Registrar, tasked with collecting and reporting cancer statistics to a national database. Their journey from uncertainty to success showcases the power of determination and education.

“One year completely changed our lives,” Jeanette said. “We would not be where we are today without Cape Fear Community College.”

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job outlook for healthcare information technologists and medical registrars is positive. Job growth is anticipated to increase by 17% between 2021 and 2031 with a median annual income of $55,560.00.

The next CHAA class begins on Wednesday, September 6. For more information and to register, visit cfcc.edu/chaa .