Vous êtes sur la page 1sur 34

IN THE FIFTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT COURT

IN AND FOR PALM BEACH COUNTY, FLORIDA

Case No.: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __

DONESIA BEST,
GUERLANDE EXANTUS,
DIANA MEDINA,
TERI DOLECKI,
DIANA MEYER, &
LINDA O'NEILL,

Plaintiffs,
v.

EDUCATION AFFILIATES INC.,


a Maryland corporation d/b/a MedVance Institute, &
KIMC INVESTMENTS, INC.,
a Maryland corporation d/b/a MedVance Institute,

Defendants.
--------------------------~/

COMPLAINT

Plaintiffs Donesia Best, Guerlande Exantus, Diana Medina, Teri Dolecki, Diana Meyer,

and Linda O'Neill, sue Defendants, Education Affiliates Inc., and KIMC Investments, Inc., both

doing business as MedVance Institute ("MedVance"), for breach of contract, breach of the

covenant of good faith and fair dealing, fraud in the inducement, fraudulent misrepresentation,

and for violating laws prohibiting misleading advertising, Fla. Stat. § 817.41, and unfair and

deceptive trade practices, Fla. Stat. § 501.204.

Introduction

1. This lawsuit concerns a private, for-profit educational facility, MedVance, which

diligently and fraudulently recruits students to attend its campuses in Florida and elsewhere.

MedVance's goal is matriculation of students, not education. The more students who emoll and

SARELSON LAW FIRM:, P.A., 1401 Brickell Avenue, Suite 510, rvliami, Florida 33131, 305-379-0305, 800-421-9954 (fax)
www.FloridaConsumerLawyerBlog.com
www.Sareison.com
matriculate, the higher the profits for MedVance. In order to convince students to enroll,

MedVance recruiters make false statements regarding the quality of education, graduates'

preparedness to pass certification exams, the costs of education, the ease of repaying federal

loans, and most important to Plaintiffs, job prospects upon graduation.

2. As a recipient and beneficiary of state and federal funds and loan guarantees,

MedVance has a vested interest in enrolling as many students as possible, no matter their

qualifications or interests. MedVance was and still is under scrutiny by the Governrnent

Accountability Office and Congress because of its business practices. The GAO cited

MedVance on August 4,2010 for "encouraging fraudulent practices" and for making "deceptive

or otherwise questionable statements." See Exhibit A. MedVance is part of the burgeoning

phenomenon of for-profit private career colleges, which "have grown in enrollment from

365,000 students to nearly two million over the past several years ... [and whose1 students

borrowed more than $20 billion in federal loans last year." See id Although only about 12% of

American post-secondary students attend these colleges, those students represent 43% of 2008

student loans in default. See id

3. MedVance victimizes its students. Plaintiffs, who were enticed by promises of a

better life, left MedVance with little more than an insurmountable debt burden. Instead of

learning the skills required to succeed in the fields of Medical Office Administration and

Medical Coding and Billing, Plaintiffs were subjected to out-of-control classes taught by

disinterested and unqualified instructors. Instead of educational extemships capable of

enhancing professional development, Plaintiffs were placed with employers who assigned menial

tasks. Instead of sound financial advice, MedVance's financial department rushed Plaintiffs

2
SARELSON LAW FIRM, P.A., 1401 Brickell Avenue, Suite 510, Miami, Florida 33131, 305-379-0305, 800-421-9954 (fa."...:)
www.FloridaConsumerLawyerBlog.com
www.SareJson.com
through the loan application process, simply assuring them not to worry about a major life

decision. MedVance is solely focused on the bottom line, to the detriment of its students.

Parties, Jurisdiction, Venue Etc.

4. Plaintiff Donesia Best, a current resident of Palm Beach County, Florida, attended

MedVance Institute's West Palm Beach campus from 2009 to 2010.

5. Plaintiff Guerlande Exantus, a current resident of Palm Beach County, Florida,

attended MedVance Institute's West Palm Beach campus from 2009 to 2010.

6. Plaintiff Diana Medina, a current resident of Palm Beach County, Florida,

attended MedVance Institute's West Palm Beach campus from 2009 to 2010.

7. Plaintiff Teri Dolecki, a current resident of Martin County, Florida, attended

MedVance Institute's Stuart campus from 2008 to 2009.

8. Plaintiff Diana Meyer, a current resident of St. Lucie County, Florida, attended

MedVance Institute's Staurt campus from 2008 to 2009.

9. Plaintiff Linda O'Neill, a current resident of Palm Beach County, Florida,

attended MedVance Institute's Stuart campus from 2008 to 2009.

10. Defendant Education Affiliates Inc. is a Maryland corporation that owns several

private career colleges in Florida doing business under the name, "MedVance Institute."

Education Affiliates purchased MedVance Institute from KlMC Investments, Inc. in December

2009. All Plaintiffs attended Defendants' Stuart or West Palm Beach campuses.

11. Defendant KIMC Investments, Inc. is a Maryland corporation that owned several

private career colleges in Florida doing business under the name, "MedVance Institute." KIMC

Investments, Inc. sold MedVance Institute to Education Affiliates Inc. in December 2009. All

Plaintiffs attended Defendants' Stuart or West Palm Beach campuses.

3
SARELSON LAW FIRM, PA, 1401 Brickell Avenue, Suite 510, :Miami, Florida 33131, 305~379-0305, 800-421-9954 (fax)
www.FloridaConsumerl..awyerBlog.com
www.Sare1son.com
12. Jurisdiction is proper pursuant to Fla. Stat. § 26.012 because this is an action at

law in excess of$15,000.

13. Venue is proper pursuant to Fla. Stat. § 47.041 because actions on several causes

of action may be brought in any county where any of the causes of action arose. Most causes of

action accrued in Palm Beach County, Florida.

Facts Common to All Counts

14. Plaintiffs were convinced to enroll because of promises that they could start a

successful career in an in-demand occupational field. Oral representations aside, even

MedVance's informational literature makes unrealistic forecasts and assurances. MedVance tells

recruits that it is "dedicated to preparing qualified candidates for careers in the medical field and

has been doing so for decades." See Exhibit B. It also claims that classes are taught by "highly

trained professionals." See id. It boasts that students learn on-the-job training at "a variety of

medical settings." See id The Medical Office Administration program information guide states:

"Upon completion of this program, graduates will be able to seek entry-level positions in

healthcare facilities ... With strong skills sets in office technology, office management and

customer service, the graduate will possess the knowledge and be positioned to work within the

team dynamic required in healthcare administration today." See id. The Medical Billing and

Coding program information guide similarly states: "The Medical Billing & Coding Specialist

program prepares students to analyze medical records and assign codes to medical conditions,

diagnoses and procedures . . . Graduates find entry-level employment opportunities in

physician's offices, billing offices, hospitals .... " See id Plaintiffs were also orally guaranteed

jobs upon completion of their respective programs by recruiters.

4
SARELSON LAW FIRM, P.A., 1401 Brickell Avenue, Suite 510, Miami, Florida 33131, 305-379-0305, 800-421-9954 (fa.",,)
www.FloridaConsumcrLawyerBlog.com
w\vw.Sarclson.com
15. In reality, MedVance does not prepare its students for certification exams and

employment in a turbulent and competitive job market. Plaintiffs were hastily pushed through

the filling out of federal loan paperwork, and in many cases, MedVance prepared the paperwork

for Plaintiffs. Instead of carefully counseling its students on the pros and cons of incurring debt,

the financial aid department sought only the minimum information required to fill out federal

loan documents. Across the board, MedVance's Career Services Office did little to connect

students with worthwhile job opportunities. In hindsight, Plaintiffs see their time and money

spent at MedVance as wasted. And at the end of the day, even if Plaintiffs do not receive the

training promised, MedVance remains the beneficiary of substantial federal-backed student

loans.

Donesia Best

16. Donesia Best was enrolled in the Medical Office Administration night program at

MedVance's West Palm Beach campus between October 2009 and June 2010. She graduated

with a 3.85 GPA. Ms. Best received some financial aid but incurred federal student loan debt of

about $11,500. She was attracted to MedVance by the promise that, after graduation, she would

be hired for a full time position with benefits. After expressing skepticism at filling out loan

paperwork given her financial position and the inability to pay a routine $25 filing fee, a recruiter

told her, "between you and me, there's a $25 fee and I will front it if you do not tell anyone."

MedVance Recruiters and financial aid personnel had no interest in Ms. Best's ability to repay

her loan and simply assured her that she would find a job in her field after graduation. They

hastily procured her personal information so that they could fill out loan paperwork on her

behalf. After filling out the paperwork, MedVance employees told Ms. Best to write down the

names and addresses of friends who might also be interested in enrolling. Ms. Best recalled that

5
SARELSON LAW FIRM, P.A., 1401 Brickell Avenue, Suite 510, Miami, Florida 33131, 305-379-0305, 800-421-9954 (fa;,,)
www.FloridaConsumerLawyerBlog.com
www.Sare1son.com
instructors lacked effort and in a highly technical transcription class that required textbooks,

weeks went by without textbooks as the instructor simply passed the time.

17. During her studies, MedVance's Career Services Office told Ms. Best they would

help her with her resume, but they simply added a line for MedVance institute and sent it back to

her. They sent her on 2 "interviews": one consisted of dropping a resume in a pile at a nearby

job fair; the other was at a doctor's office, where she was told that she did not have requisite

experience. Ms. Best knows of one peer out of approximately 100 in the Medical Office

Administration Program who found gainful employment. After MedVance, she enrolled at

Broward College as a general studies major seeking to satisfy prerequisites to be a registered

nurse. Broward does not recognize the credits she earned, at a hefty rate, at MedVance. Ms.

Best currently works part time at Publix and considers her graduation from MedVance and the

experience in general as "worthless."

Guerlande Exantus

18. Ouerlande Exantus was enrolled in the Medical Office Administration night

program at MedVance's West Palm Beach campus between November 2009 and August 2010.

Ms. Exantus graduated with about a 3.5 OPA. She incurred federal loan debt split between

subsidized and unsubsidized loans totaling approximately $11,000. She became involved with

MedVance when they called her directly and promised a great education and further

employment. MedVance's financial aid department hastily completed Ms. Exantus' loan

paperwork and their Career Services Office did nothing to help her find a job or even an

internship.

19. When she asked for assistance, the Career Services Office told Ms. Exantus that

she was "on her own" and urged her to go to various medical offices to ask if they were hiring.

6
SARELSON LAW FIRM, P.A., 1401 Brickell Avenue, Suite 510, Miami, Florida 33131, 305-379-0305, 800-421-9954 (fax)
\vww.FloridaConsumerLawyerBlog.com
www.Sarelson.com
Ms. Exantus used to be a customer relations employee and has been out of work for over four

years. She has stated that her debts are piling up and that MedVance was a major waste of time

and money.

Diana Medina

20. Diana Medina was enrolled in the Medical Office Administration night program

at MedVance's West Palm Beach campus between November 2009 and August 2010. Ms.

Medina completed her studies with a perfect 4.0 GPA. She paid approximately $3,000 out-of-

pocket in tuition and incurred federal student loan debt of about $9,000. Ms. Medina found

MedVance while searching online and was attracted by the opportunity to attend night classes

and better her job prospects. She contacted MedVance's West Palm Beach campus and was

assured by recruiter Norma Jimenez that she would definitely get a job as a medical office

manager nearby upon graduation. MedVance's financial aid department told Ms. Medina that

they would take care of the loan paperwork and that she would not have to worry about it until

she got a job. During class, Ms. Medina recalls that answers to tests were spoon-fed to students

and that when she asked for clarification of a difficult subject, instructors would tell her to just

read the book. Instructors were woefully unqualified and would often ramble about their

personal lives or gossip, instead ofthoughtfully teaching the subject matter.

21. Since completing her studies, Ms. Medina has received no help finding a job from

MedVance's Career Services Office. Ms. Medina, who attended the University of Florida,

considers her education at MedVance worthless and omits the experience from her resume. She

has stated that, "you are basically paying for a piece of paper that says, I graduated here, and I

still have no experience." She currently works at Publix but is actively seeking employment in

the Medical Office Administration field.

7
SARELSON LAW FIRM, P.A., 1401 Brickell Avenue, Suite 510, Miami, Florida 33131, 305-379-0305, 800-421-9954 (fax)
www.FloridaConswnerLawyerBlog.com
w\Vw.SareJson.com
Teri Dolecki

22. Teri Dolecki was enrolled in the Medical Coding and Billing night program at

MedVance's Stuart campus between August 2008 and July 2009. Ms. Dolecki graduated with a

perfect 4.0 GPA. She incurred federal student loan debt of about $15,000. Ms. Dolecki saw a

commercial on TV and went on MedVance's website, where she was attracted by representations

that the medical coding and billing fields were in high demand. Ms. Dolecki, who had been out

of school for 30 years and whose husband had recently passed away, was interested in the

prospect of going from "classroom to career in a year." She was recruited by MedVance's

Tamara Stephens who promised her that the program was perfect for middle-aged individuals,

that she could work part time from home after graduation, that jobs in the field were in demand,

and that MedVance would prepare her for the Certified Professional Coder (CPC) examination.

The financial aid department hastily processed her paperwork and told her it would be easy to

payoff loan debt. To entice her, they refunded a $300 enrollment fee. Recruiters and financial

aid employees neglected to inform her that maintaining a license in the field costs about $200 a

year. Ms. Dolecki was one of the many students who signed up for the new 4-week curriculum,

whereby MedVance would teach subjects in four, rather than six weeks. This new curriculum

hurts students and teachers, who must speed through the material; it helps MedVance, which is

able to recruit and sign up more students per year. During her extemship, Ms. Dolecki was

placed at Martin Memorial Hospital and Treasure Coast Surgical Center. At these placements,

she received some coding experience, but spent most of her time xeroxing reports, copying

papers, stuffing envelopes and answering phones.

23. Ms. Dolecki took and passed the CPC exam and upon information and belief, was

the only student in her program to do so. She recalled that reading the textbook was more useful

8
SARELSON LAW FIRM, P.A., 1401 Brickell Avenue, Swte 510, :Miami, Florida 33131, 305~379-0305> 800-421-9954 (fa.x)
www.FloridaConsumerLawyerBlog.com
www.Sarelson.com
than MedV ance' s exam prep classes, which consisted of crossword puzzles. See Exhibit C. Ms

Dolecki accepts the possibility that her 25 years experience in medical transcription and

terminology helped prepare her for the exam more than MedVance did. After certification and

graduation, MedVance's Career Services Office put her in contact with employers who only

wanted her to answer phone calls; they did not put her in touch with any potential part time

coding employers, despite initial promises. Highly motivated, Ms. Dolecki offered to volunteer

at medical offices to learn more about coding, but employers told her that she lacks the requisite

experience. MedVance never told her during recruitment and enrollment that almost all medical

coding and billing employers are only seeking certified employees with at least two years

experience in the field. She is currently living off of her pension and actively seeking a coding

job, which she has been unable to attain, despite her 4.0 OPA and passage of the CPC exam. Ms.

Dolecki has stated that she was "proud of herself for having the courage to go back to school, but

it was all a waste."

Diana Meyer

24. Diana Meyer was enrolled in the Medical Coding and Billing night program at

MedVance's Stuart campus between August 2008 and July 2009. Ms. Meyer attended classes

but left after her extemship and did not graduate. Ms. Meyer paid for MedVance by incurring

federal loan debt of about $11,500 and Pell grants of about $5,000. MedVance recruiter Tamara

Stephens promised Ms. Meyer, who has 20 years of accounting experience, a job that paid

approximately $50,000 upon graduation and passage of the CPC Exam. Ms. Stephens told Ms.

Meyer that MedVance was accredited and that passage of the exam would be a virtual certainty

after a MedVance education. After Ms. Meyer told Ms. Stephens that she wanted to speak with

her husband before filling out loan paperwork and enrolling, Ms. Stephens pressured her to

9
SARELSON LAW FIRM, P.A., 1401 Brickell Avenue, Suite 510, Miami, Florida 33131, 305-379-0305, 800-421-9954 (fa.x)
www.FloridaConsumerLawyerBlog.com
www.SareJson.com
emoll by stressing that if she did not sign up right then, she would have to wait months or a year

to fill a spot in another program. MedVance's financial aid department told Ms. Meyer that

paying the loans off would not pose a problem and that other MedVance graduates easily paid

off the debt. Ms. Meyer was placed at a 32-hour-a-week extemship for no pay with All

American Physicians LLC in Port St. Lucie. Although given the opportunity to do some medical

coding, her supervisor was not qualified and failed to give her guidance or teach her more about

the field. After the extemship, Ms. Meyer left MedVance when the instructors gave her and her

peers crossword puzzles and word searches in order to prepare for the intensive CPC exam. See

Exhibit C. According to Ms. Meyer, instructors were not qualified and one in particular had not

even passed the CPC exam. She recalls that much of the classroom teaching directly conflicted

with the textbook and caused confusion for students.

25. Ms. Meyer, like over 90% of her classmates, eventually failed the CPC exam and

was not properly prepared by MedVance, despite their promises. She is currently unemployed

and has no prospects finding employment in the medical coding or billing fields.

Linda O'Neill

26. Linda O'Neill was enrolled in the Medical Coding and Billing night program at

MedVance's Stuart campus between October 2008 and September 2009. Ms. O'Neill graduated

with a perfect 4.0 GP A. She incurred federal loan debt of about $15,000. Ms. O'Neill has stated

that she was "sucked in" by a recruiter who stated that "most girls" get a job that pays about

$40,000 after graduation. She recalls that during orientation, new students wore nametags that

said, "Future Biller or Coder." She was rushed through the loan application process and was not

told to carefully consider the implications of incurring substantial debt. Ms. O'Neill remembers

that instructors were unqualified and textbooks needed to be updated. During her unpaid

10
SARELSQN LAW FIRM:, P.A., 1401 Brickell Avenue, Suite 510, Miami, Florida 33131, 305-379-0305, 800-421-9954 (fa.",,)
www.FloridaConsumerLawyerBlog.com
www.Sare1son.com
extemship at an eye doctor's office, she folded letters, stuffed and stamped envelopes and

completed other menial tasks unrelated to forging contacts and developing professionally in the

medical billing or coding fields. She has stated that she "did her time," in order to receive

extemship credit, a requirement to graduate.

27. Ms. O'Neill did not pass the CPC exam and has stated that MedVance did not

properly prepare her for it because classes were rushed and students were made to complete

crossword puzzles and word searches. During classes and after graduation, MedVance's Career

Services Office did nothing to help her find a job anywhere within 30 miles of Jupiter, where she

lives. Ms. O'Neill currently works at a small cleaning business, lives with her family and has no

prospects finding a job related to her studies at MedVance despite her best efforts.

COUNT I - Breach of Contract

28. Plaintiffs incorporate paragraphs 1-27.

29. The Plaintiffs entered into a binding contract with MedVance. MedVance's

literature assures that students "have made a commitment to us and to their future and we in tum,

have a commitment to help them realize it." In statements by recruiters and literature provided,

MedVance offered Plaintiffs a quality education that would, at a minimum, give a realistic

chance of employment after graduation. Plaintiffs accepted this offer, with consideration in the

form of incurring thousands of dollars of federal-backed student loans, and the expenditure of

time and effort.

30. Plaintiffs fully performed their obligations under the agreement by paying tuition

and making a good faith effort to attend classes, externship placements, and pursue available

employment avenues.

11
SARELSON LAW FIRlvf, FA, 1401 Brickell Avenue, Suite 510, :M:iami, Florida 33131, 305-379-0305, 800-421-9954 (fax)
www.FloridaConsumcrLawyerBlog.com
w\v\v .Sarelson. com
31. Defendants breached the education contract by failing to provide a quality

education in the fields of Medical Coding or Billing and Medical Office Administration.

MedVance fell woefully short of making good on their many oral and written promises that good

jobs were attainable after earning a MedVance degree. For example, students in the Medical

Coding and Billing program were told that a MedVance education would prepare them for the

CPC exam. It did not. MedVance also breached the agreement by failing to connect Plaintiffs

with area employers.

32. Plaintiffs were damaged as a result of Defendants' breach of the agreement in the

form of being burdened with heavy loan debt without leaming necessary skills, forging important

contacts, or obtaining jobs with area employers. They are entitled to expectation damages,

which include both incidental and consequential damages for Defendants' breach.

COUNT II - Breach of Good Faith and Fair Dealing

33. Plaintiffs incorporate paragraphs 1 - 27.

34. As an educational institution entering into contracts with its students whereby

students give money and the institution gives education and a path to employment, a fiduciary

relationship was created between Plaintiffs and MedVance. In every contract, there is an implied

covenant of good faith and fair dealing.

35. MedVance was obligated to not take action which would deprive Plaintiffs of

their benefits arising from the contract and had to, in good faith, execute its contractual duties.

36. MedVance breached their duties by baiting students to enter into the education

contract by using deceptive recruiting practices. For example, recruiters told Plaintiffs that loans

would be easy to repay since jobs were in high demand and that MedVance provided the tools

and connections necessary to surely secure employment.

12
SARELSON LAW FIRM, FA, 1401 Brickell Avenue, Suite 510, Miam!, Florida 33131, 305-379-0305, 800-421-9954 (fa.,,)
www.FloridaConswnerLawyerBlog.com
www.Sare1son.com
37. MedVance also breached their duties by offering classes and placing Plaintiffs in

extemships that did not further professional development in the Medical Office Administration

and Medical Coding and Billing fields.

38. Plaintiffs have been damaged by MedVance's breach of duties arising from the

contract. They owe Plaintiffs damages proximately resulting from this breach.

COUNT III - Fraud in the Inducement

39. Plaintiffs incorporate paragraphs 1-27.

40. MedVance's recruiters and financial aid personnel made numerous

misrepresentations of material fact to Plaintiffs in order to procure enrollment. For example,

they informed Plaintiffs that they would obtain employment upon graduation and that because of

this employment, loans would easily be paid off.

41. Specifically, Plaintiff Best was told that she could easily find a full time job with

benefits upon graduation. When expressing uncertainty about taking out a loan, she was told,

"we are sure that you will find a job, the field is in demand, so do not worry about it."

42. Plaintiff Exantus was falsely promised employment contacts during her education

andjob opportunities after her education by MedVance recruiters.

43. Plaintiff Medina was assured by recruiter Norma Jimenez that she would

definitely get a job as a medical office manager nearby upon graduation. She was told by

financial aid personnel to take out a loan because "you will not have to worry about it until after

graduation, when you have ajob."

44. Plaintiff Dolecki was recruited by MedVance's Tamara Stephens, who promised

her that the program was perfect for middle-aged individuals, that she could work part time from

13
SARELSON LAW FIRM:, P.A., 1401 Brickell Avenue, Suite 510, Miami, Florida 33131, 305~379-0305, 800-421-9954 (fa.x)
wwwFloridaConsumerLawyerBlog.com
www.Sareison.com
home after graduation, that jobs in the field were in demand, and that MedVance would prepare

her for the Certified Professional Coder (CPC) examination.

45. Plaintiff Meyer was promised by MedVance recruiter Tamara Stephens that ajob

paying approximately $50,000 a year was awaiting after graduation. Ms. Stephens told Ms.

Meyer that passage of the exam would be a virtual certainty after a MedVance education.

Financial aid personnel told Ms. Meyer that it would be "easy" to payoff loan debt.

46. Plaintiff O'Neill was told by a recruiter that most graduates acquire a job paying

about $40,000 a year after graduation. The recruiter told Ms. O'Neill MedVance success stories

about graduates attaining high-paying jobs and promotions with the opportunity to travel.

47. The GAO cited MedVance on August 4, 2010 for "encouraging fraudulent

practices" and for making "deceptive or otherwise questionable statements."

48. MedVance personnel knew, or should have known, the falsity of these statements.

Through their difficulties placing students at worthwhile extemships, awareness of loan default

rates, and operation of a marginally effective Career Services Office, MedVance knew that their

representations were false.

49. MedVance intended that their false representations would induce Plaintiffs to rely

and act. MedVance intended to, and achieved their goal of, having Plaintiffs fill out loan

paperwork and incur substantial debt in order to emoll and attend classes.

50. Plaintiffs, through expenditures of time and money, suffered injury in justifiable

reliance on MedVance's false representations.

COUNT IV - Fraudulent Misrepresentation

51. Plaintiffs incorporate paragraphs 1 - 27.

14
SARELSON LAW FIRM, P.A., 1401 Brickell Avenue, Suite 510, :Miami, Florida 33131, 305-379-0305, 800-421-9954 (fa:'\)
www.FloridaConsumerLawyerBlog.com
www.Sare1son.com
52. Plaintiffs Meyer, Dolecki and O'Neill, were entolled in the Medical Billing and

Coding program, which required them to complete an offsite extemship in order to graduate and

sit for the certification exam.

53. In order to keep these Plaintiffs emolled, MedVance made false statements that

they would get on-the-job training, forge important employment contacts, and would learn more

about the field through hands-on experience via the extemship program.

54. Defendants, unable to place so many students at worthwhile extemships or find

eventual employment for its students, knew that these statements were false when they were

made.

55. These misrepresentations were made with the intent to induce Plaintiffs to act, in

the form of staying emolled and being responsible for tuition.

56. Aside from being unable to ultimately find jobs, Plaintiffs were damaged by their

reliance on these misrepresentations by being effectively forced to complete menial tasks with

little or no bearing to the Medical Coding and Billing field. Plaintiffs also incurred loan debt in

reliance on these misrepresentations.

COUNT V - Misleading Advertising

57. Plaintiffs incorporate paragraphs I - 27.

58. According to Fla. Stat. § 817.41, which provides for a private cause of action,

misleading advertising is prohibited. Misleading advertising is defined at Fla. Stat. § 817.40(5).1

I "The phrase 'misleading advertising' includes any statements made, or disseminated, in oral, written, or printed
form or otherwise, to or before the public, or any portion thereof, which are known, or though the exercise of
reasonable care or investigation could or might have been ascertained, to be untrue or misleading, and which are or
were so made or disseminated with the intent or purpose, either directly or indirectly, of selling or disposing of real
or personal property, services of any nature whatever, professional or otherwise, or to induce the public to enter into
any obligation relating to such property or services."
15
SARELSON LAW FIlUvi, P.A., 1401 Brickell Avenue, Suite 510, Miami, Florida 33131, 305-379-0305, 800-421-9954 (fa:\:)
www.FloridaConsumerLawyerBlog.com
W\vw.Sareison.com
59. To further their sale of services and to encourage students to enroll, MedVance

advertised, both in print and with the use of recruiters. Brochures suggest that MedVance

graduates "will be able to seek entry-level positions in healthcare facilities ... With strong skills

sets in office technology, office management and customer service, the graduate will possess the

knowledge and be positioned to work within the team dynamic required in healthcare

administration today." See Exhibit B. More directly, recruiters told Plaintiffs that securing solid

jobs after graduation was a virtual certainty. Financial aid employees told Plaintiffs that paying

back student loans would be easy. After all, they would eventually be gainfully employed

according to MedVance personnel. These statements, as well as other representations by

MedVance discussed herein, are known, or through the exercise of reasonable care or

investigation could or might have been ascertained, to be untrue or misleading.

60. These statements were made for the purpose of selling services, namely,

educational services.

61. Plaintiffs relied on these false statements and advertising strategies to their

detriment, by incurring loan debt and attending classes and extemships that were, in effect,

worthless.

62. Defendant's false advertising practices were the proximate case of Plaintiffs'

injuries; were it not for MedVance's assurances and advertisements, Plaintiffs would not have

enrolled. In other words, had MedVance truthfully communicated Plaintiffs true job prospects

and the actual implications of applying for hefty federal loans, Plaintiffs would not have enrolled

at MedVance.

COUNT VI - Unfair or Deceptive Trade Practices

63. Plaintiffs incorporate paragraphs 1 - 27.

16
SARELSON LAW FIRM, P.A., 1401 Brickell Avenue, Suite 510, :Miami, Florida 33131, 305-379-0305, 800-421-9954 (fax)
www.FloridaConsumerLawyerBlog.com
www.Sareison.com
64. Fla. Stat. § 501.204 provides for a private cause of action for those harmed by

"[u]nfair methods of competition, unconscionable acts or practices, and unfair or deceptive acts

or practices in the conduct of any trade or commerce .... "

65. MedVance, a for-profit private college, is engaged in the trade and commerce of

emolling students and collecting tuition payments.

66. Student recruitment is a vital aspect of MedVance's form of trade and commerce,

and their methods of recruitment are deceptive and unfair. The experiences of the individual

Plaintiffs have been confirmed by reports from govermnent and media. See Exhibit A.

Essentially, MedVance promised results that they knew were not forthcoming in order to make

money at Plaintiffs' expense.

67. MedVance's unfair and deceptive trade practices caused Plaintiffs to emoll, incur

federal loan debt, expend time and effort, and not pursue other opportunities.

68. Plaintiffs suffered damages as a result of MedVance's unfair and deceptive trade

practices. All Plaintiffs have had no success securing employment in their respective fields and

are currently burdened with crippling student loan debt.

Demand for Jury Trial

Plaintiffs demand a trial by jury on all issues so triable.

Prayer for Relief

Plaintiffs pray that this Court enter judgment in their favor against Education Affiliates

Inc. and KIMC Investments, Inc., both d/b/a MedVance Institute and award Plaintiffs:

A. Compensatory damages equal to the amount of money paid in tuition;

B. Compensatory damages equal to the amount of interest and fees paid or payable to

Plaintiffs' student loan lenders;

17
SARELSON LAW FIRM, PA, 1401 Brickell Avenue, Suite 510, Miami, Florida 33131, 305-379-0305, 800-421-9954 (fa.",)
www.FloridaConsumcrLawyerBlog.com
www.Sarc1son.com
C. Attorneys' fees where applicable by statute;

D. Pre- and post-judgment interest;

E. Costs;

F. All other relief, both in law and in equity, this Court deems appropriate.

Fla. BarNo. 888281


Max M. Nelson, Esq.
Fla. Bar No. Pending
SARELSON LAW FIRM, P.A.
1401 Brickell Avenue, Suite 510
Miami, Florida 33131
305-379-0305
800-421-9954 (fax)
msarelson@sarelson.com
mnelson@sarelson.com

18
SARELSON LAW FIRM, PA, 1401 Brickell Avenue, Suite 510, Miami, Florida 33131, 305-379-0305, 800-421-9954 (fa....)
www.FloridaConsumerLawyerBlog.com
www.Sarelsoo.com
GAO: 15 for-profit colleges used deceptive recruiting tactics Page 1 of2

CiJbe tutt9btngton $109t


GAO: 15 for-profit colleges used deceptive
recruiti l1 gtactics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Washington Post Staff Writer Texas. Kaplan, Everest and Phoenix each were
By Daniel de Vise and Paul Kane cited twice, for different campuses.
Thursday, August 5, 2010
Congressional officials on Wednesday Four ofthe colleges -- Westech, MedVance,
identified IS for-profit colleges where Anthem and Westwood -- "encouraged
recruiters allegedly encouraged investigators fraudulent practices" in meetings with
posing as prospective students to commit undercover investigators, the report says. All
fraud on [mancial aid applications or misled IS "made deceptive or otherwise questionable
them about such matters as tuition costs and statements. "
potential salaries after graduation.
At a morning Senate hearing, some of the
The Government Accountability Office's findi- most powerful revelations came in a brief vid-
ngs, presented to a congressional committee eo presentation, spliced together from
along with grainy video clips captured by hidden-camera feeds.
hidden cameras, may ampliry federal
scrutiny of the fastest-growing higher- Attendees watched as a MedVance
education sector. admissions officer told an applicant he
needn't worry about loading up student debt:
Many ofthe largest for-profit entities were "It's not like a car note -- if you don't pay it,
named among the 15 sites targeted by GAO they won't come after you."
investigators: University of Phoenix, with
more than 400,000 students; Argosy A Texas admissions officer tells an applicant
University, part of the 136,000-student
Education Management Corp.; Kaplan College, Advertisement
part of the 119,000-student Kaplan Higher
Education operation owned by The We focus Oil
Washington Post Co.; and Everest College, a.utoma.ti 119
part of the llO,OOO-student Corinthian Morrl ottiP.> Hotels'
Colleges. qlobo!lnvoice
process. So theIr
Also named: Westech College in California, dOIl't hove to.
Bennett Career Institute and Potomac College
in the District, MedVance Institute in Florida, Learn more at
RealBusllless.com
College of Office Technology in Illinois,
Anthem Institute in Pennsylvania, and
Westwood College and AT! Career Training in

http://www.washingtonpost.comlwp~dyn/contentlarticle/2010/08/04/AR2Q10080403816.html

(;···-r-·-·-·----··-··-··---~
Print Powered By I~iill
... ...FOnT1atDynamics"
~.-.,.~ -~~.,~.'"-"----.---~
I

http://www.washingtonpost.comlwp-dynlcontentlarticle/20 I 0/08/04/ARlO I 0080403 816 .... 10112/2010


GAO: 15 for-profit colleges used deceptive recruiting tactics Page 2 of2

GAO: 15 for-profit colleges used deceptive


... ~~~rlJiti':-tg . t.~.~ti~~ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
not to report his savings on a loan
application: "They don't need to know how
much cash you have."

And a Florida recruiter quips to a reluctant


applicant, "What are you really afraid of?"
and then rips up his application.

Leaders of industry giants Phoenix, Kaplan


and Corinthian all announced internal
investigations in response to the fmdings.

In a joint statement, Donald E. Graham,


chairman and chief executive of The W
ashington Post Co., and Andrew S. Rosen,
chairman and chief executive of Kaplan Inc.,
described the tactics revealed in the
videotaped interviews as "sickening."

"They violate in every way the principles on


which Kaplan is run," they said in a
statement posted on The Washington Post
Co.'s Web site. "The GAO and the Senate
[Health, Education, Labor and Pensions
Committee] have done us a favor. We will do Advertisement
everything in our power to eliminate such
conduct from Kaplan's education
We focus on
institutions. " autonll1ting
tv! GlTI 0tt® Hote Is '
qiobl1i invoice
process. So Uley
don't hove to.
Learn more l1t
ReaIBusll·less.com

http://www.washingtonpost.comfwp~dyn/contentJarticle/2010/08/04/AR2010080403816.html

"-.~-'.-.' ...'---.-.-.------..' ...'-.-'.,


IWill FormatDynamics"
Print Powered By .... ".""....L._..."~ ______ ,., .."._. __ •. ".".,~._.~_ .• _~~, I

http://www.washingtonpost.comlwp-dynlcontentlarticle/201 01081041AR20 10080403816.... 10/12/2010


For-Profit Colleges Seeking Loans 'Rob' Students, Senate Testimony to Say - Bloomberg Page 1 of 4

Search Quotes and News

Bloomberg Anywhere Professional Solutions About Lo,Io G G) G


~TOYOTA

Fe.atul'ing 3. compIimelltarr maintenance plan


Toyota Care with roadside assistance. '

Related News: U.S. More Stories


U.S. Stocks Fall Amid Earnings Concern; U.S.
For-Profit Colleges Seeking Loans 'Rob' Steel Tumbles Updated 6 ,ninutes ago

Students, Senate Testimony to Say Vaccine Makers Get Mixed Reception From U.S.
By John Lauerman - Sep 30, 2010 10:00 AM ET Justices Over Injury Lawsuits
Updated 7 minutes ago
Recommend, : 1 : Tweet {2) Linkedln Share Email Print
Fed Officials Were Prepared to Ease 'Before
Long,' Minutes Say
For-profit colleges leave students with high debt and inadequate educations that can harm them Updated 12 minutes ago
for years after they graduate or quit school, witnesses are scheduled to testify today at a Senate
hearing in Washington. Stocks Decline on Concern About China,
Earnings Updated 19 minutes ago

Recruiters enticed Danielle Johnson, a mother from Iowa, to enroll in Washington Post CO.'s More News »
Kaplan education unit, saying she could train at home to be a nurse, a claim that turned out to be
untrue, she said in testimony prepared for today's Senate Health, Education, Labor & Pensions
Committee hearing. Kaplan refused to release her transcripts, preventing her from transferring
into a cheaper community college, she said.

While working students must have access to programs that fit their schedules and training
requirements, they also need protection from the predatory recruiting programs and lending
fraud uncovered by a government probe of education companies, said Arnold Mitchem,
president of the Council for Opportunity in Education, in prepared comments for the hearing.

"Access is critical, but access to what?" Mitchem said in the prepared testimony. "Mountains of
debt?"

For-profit colleges represent about 12 percent of U.S. college students, according to the
Association of Private Sector Colleges and Universities, a Washington-based industry group Related Videos
formerly called the Career College Association. Those students account for about a quarter of
U.S. student loan dollars, said Lauren Asher, president of the Institute for College Access and
Success, an advocacy group based in Oakland, California, in comments prepared for the hearing.

'Severe' Consequences
Greenspan Says U.S.
Playing 'Dangerous Game'
About 43 percent of all former students who defaulted by 2010 on loans they began paying offin
on Stimulus
2008 were from for-profit colleges, Asher said. The consequences of those defaults are "severe
and long-lasting," she said in her remarks.

"You will likely be hounded by collectors, and your debt will increase significantly because of
default and collection fees," Asher said in her prepared comments. ''You cannot get federal
grants or loans to return to school, and the debt can follow you until you die. There is no statute
of limitations, and the government can garnish your wages, seize your tax refunds, and Gross Interview Excerpt on
Quantitative Easing, Strategy
eventually take a slice of your Social Security check."
v,.Taboola
For-profit colleges have helped improve the lives of many students who earlier failed at
Market Snapshot
traditional, nonprofit universities, said Harris Miller, president and chief executive officer of the
U.S Europe Asia
for-profit colleges' trade group.
DOW 11047.90 +37.57 (0.34%)
'Anecdote Game'

htlp:llwww.bloomberg.comlnews/20 10-09-30/for-profit-colleges-seeking-loans-rob-stude... 10/12/2010


For-Profit Colleges Seeking Loans 'Rob' Students, Senate Testimony to Say - Bloomberg Page 2 of4

"We can all play the anecdote game," Miller said in a telephone interview before the hearing S&P 500 1171.94 +6.62 (0.57%)
began. "We have plenty of students who would be glad to tell the committee how OUf schools
NASDAQ 2420.79 +18.46 (0.77%)
have turned their lives around."
Stocks on the Move

About 1,500 students, teachers and administrators rallied in front of the U.S. Capitol building
Most Popular Stories
yesterday to oppose proposed industry regulations that would force for-profit colleges to show
that graduates are repaying their loans and make enough to afford repayment. Stocks Decline on Concern About China,
Earnings Updated 17 minutes ago

"All State does a great job of preparing you to present yourself for ajob," said Sarah Martin, 22, a
Marc Faber Says World Heading for 'Major
student at All State Career School in Baltimore who rode to Washington on one of six buses the
Inflection Point'
college sent to the rally.
Obama Losing Supporters in Poll as Joblessness
"It's up to you to take advantage of the situation," Martin said. Prompts Voters' Discontent

For-profit colleges have come under fire since a government report released Aug. 4 found that Republicans Prove Unpopular With Voters
Against Obama in Poll
recruiters at 15 colleges misled students to boost enrollment. Senator T0111 Harkin, the Iowa
Democrat who heads the education committee, said he plans to hold another hearing the first More Most Popular Stories"

...
week in December. Harkin said he will release information at today's hearing collected from
! Adllertisements
education companies.
:

No Degree

"The companies get the profits, and the students get the debt," Harkin said in a telephone
Sponsored Links
interview before the hearing. "And many times they don't even get a degree."
Le Cordon Bleu® Orlando
Deceptive marketing has hurt low-income, minority students across the U.S., Mitchem said in Culinary Arts College-Financial Aid
Programs. Register Now & Start 11/8
his prepared testimony. Mitchem's group submitted a list of stories from students who said they LeCordonBleu·Orlando.com

had been misled by recruiters and administrators.


Thomas Jefferson Law
Earn an Accredited Master of laws at
D'angelo Walker, a former student at Hoffman Estates, Illinois-based Career Education Corp.'s Thomas Jefferson law School.
MaslerSinLaw.TJSLetlu
Sanford-Brown College whose story was included in the submission, said his degree failed to
help him get a job, and other colleges won't accept the credits he earned. Coca-Cola Scholars
We're passionate about education. learn
about Coca-Cola scholarships.
Starting Over Li~ePosilively.com'JoinUs

AcI$ by Coogle
"I feel like I've been robbed," Walker said in the testimony. "Every school is telling me that 1 will
have to start over."

Almost half of the students at for-profit colleges are minorities and about two-thirds of the
schools' students have incomes below the median for all undergraduates, Asher said. These
students are three times as likely to borrow to pay for their education as those attending
nonprofit colleges, Asher said.

"The data clearly show that across levels of income and categories of racejethnicity, for-profit
college students borrow more than those who attend elsewhere," she said in her testimony.

Kathleen A. Bittel, who works in Education Management Corp.'s Art Institute of Pittsburgh
online divi~ion, al~o is scheduled to testify at the hearing. The company assembled deceptive
career-placement data by counting entry-level jobs at Toys "R" Us, Starbucks and a convenience
store as related to students' degrees, Bittel said in a letter to Congress obtained by Bloomberg
News. The company investigated Bittel's claims and determined they were unfounded,
Education Management said yesterday in a statement.

Education Secretary Arne Duncan said in August that he will beef up his department's
enforcement ann to help stamp out predatory recruitment practices. The Education Department
is preparing to publish rules that strengthen sanctions for recruiters who mislead applicants,
and require for-profit colleges to tell students how many students graduate and get placed in
jobs.

http://www.bloomberg.comlnews/201 0-09-30/for-profit-colleges-seeking-Ioans-rob-stude... 10/12/20 I 0


For-Profit Colleges Seeking Loans 'Rob' Students, Senate Testimony to Say - Bloomberg Page 3 of4

To contact the reporter on this story: John Lauerman in Boston atjlauerman@bloomberg.net.

To contact the editors responsible for this story: Jonathan Kaufman at


jkallfmam7@bloomberg.net.

Recommend' : 'i i Tweet (2) Lillkedln Share Email Print

Related News
U.S.

Sponsored Lioks
"FOREX.com - Learn. Practice. Trade Currencies Get a Risk-Free $50,000 Practice Account."

News Market Data Personal Finance More from Bloomberg Company


Exclusive Stocks TV Bloomberg Blisinessweek About Bloomberg
[tJ Rate this Page Worldwide Rates & Business Exchange Solutions
Bonds Radio
Regions Bloomberg on Twitter Careers
Currencies Video
Go to Ihs old Markets Bloomberg on Facebook Contact Us
version of Mutual Funds
Industries Podcasts Bloonlberg Govemment Press Room
Bloomberg.com
ETFs
Economy Personalities Fl;{::;-:i":;l--{I- Help
Commodities
Politics Bloomberg Law Sitemap
Keene On Demand
Economic
L>w Calendar Bloomberg Link Trademarks
Mobile
Environment Bloomberg Mar1-;ets Magazine Feedback
Leaders
Science Bloomberg New Energy Finance
Opinion Technology Btoomberg Open Symbology
Muse: Arts, Bloomberg Press
Culture &
Spend Bloomberg Sports

Sports Bloomberg UTV

©2010 BLOOMBERG L.P. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. Terms of Service Privacy Policy Advertising
Unless indicated olherwise, inlraday market data is at least 15 minutes delayed.

http://www.bloomberg.comlnews/20 10-09-30/for-profit-colleges-seeking-loans-rob-stude... 10/12/2010


[!MedVance
--lll:SI'I'r(!Tf~--

2009· MedVance Institute Overview·. Palm Springs -Campus

A Vision For The Future


A Commitment To Excellence
MedVartce Institute is dedicated to preparing qualified candidates for careers in the medical field and has been doing
so for decades. .

·.Achieve your educational goals in a supportive environment


• Choose from a variety of medical training programs
• Complete your medical career training in 7 to 24 months
• Enjoy the convenience of day, afternoon, and evening class schedules
• Experience the benefit of small classes and hands-on learning
• Gain valuable real world experience through externships
• Learn from qualified instructors who are highly trained professionals

Graduates work in a variety of medical settings including hospitals, laboratories, physicians' offices, long-term care
facilities, home· health care businesses, radiology and surgical centers, cancer treatment facilities, insurance
companies, and other medical businesses.

MedVance Institute has campuses in many states offering Certificate, Diploma, Occupational Associate Degree,
Associate In Occupational Studies, and Associate ofApplied Science Degree Programs .

Our Purpose: Innovatively Creating Opportunities ...


IT'S PERSONAL
At MedVance lnstihlte, INNOVATION is the key to our success. What we do, healthcarc career training, is highly
regulated and standardized throughout our industry. However, how we do what we do is up to us. What does that
mean? It means we have the ability to create an experience that is extraordinary and will keep our customers talking
about us long after graduation. Innovation is key to unlocking that extraordinary experience. Innovation means
thinking differently about something familiar. H's about going beyond the ordinary and creating something better.

CREATING OPPORTUNITIES is our core purpose. Every day we create opportunities for our customers, our
communities and ourselves. Opportunities can take many foims. Just remember that for every obstacle ... there is an
. opportunity waiting to be discovered.

IT'S PERSONAL describes how we fulfill our purpose. We are accountable for ensuring our .customers receive a
personal, friendly and supportive educational experience. We do not want them to feel like just another number.
They have made a commitment to us and to their future and we in turn, have a commitment to help ·them realize it.
IT'S PERSONAL also serves a dual purpose and is an acronym for our values.

www.medvance.edu
This catalog was prepared by McdVnncc Institute. Curriculum, tuition, fccs,-cxpcnscs, academic requirements, etc. arc subject to change at the discretion o'fthe
SchooL Information contained in this catalog is true and accurate to the best knowledge of the School's Administration.
Overview Palm Springs 49 © 2009 MedVance Institute. All rights reserved.
r5MedVance
--\III~TII'\;'flt--

2009 Academic Programs .- Palm Springs Campus

Coordination
Medical Office OADlOO Keyboarding Skill Building & 2.0/40
Administration OAD140
10-Key
Desktop Publishing 6.0/80
Diploma Program OADl50 Transcription 5.-0/80
monthsJ36 ,:"e~ks .~.x..~!.u_~!!1g OADl60 Human Resources 6.0/80
TOTALS Qtr Credit Hours/ Clock Hours 55.0/720
• denotes general
COURSE DESCRIPTIONS
AHC140 Healthcare Facmtie~ &
Business Infrastructure 4.0QH
.In this course. students y.till learn the ethical expectations of all
individuals working in healthcare regardless of their role. Students
will develop reasonable expectations of the range of client reactions
in the sensitive healthcare environment, as well as the appropriate
response level that healthcare workers reasonably display. Students
are trained in healthcare law related to patient information, HIPPA,
safety and compliance with applicable local, -county, state and federal
rules and regulations. This COurse includes instruction in Basic First
Aid _including Bloodborne/Airborne Pathogens. 40 lecture ,hours.
PROGRAM OBJECTIVE Prerequisite: None.
The program is designed to provide students with the multi-
dimensional skill sets required to excel in administrative roles today~ MASI03 Medical Office Procedures 6.0 QH
Students learn the basics of communications in healthcare which Students will learn the primary duties performed in the medical office
include medical tenninology, computers and practice management. by the medical manager including compiling office policies and
Students also learn to navigate and manage databases, client procedures, patient registration-, human resource functions,
infonnation, and the laws and ethics related to client data appointment scheduling, patient billing, medical insurance and basic
management. -This course also provides training to students in coding. Students' will apply a practical approach to understanding
transcription, billing & coding, human resources, de;sktop publishing, these medical office procedures. Students also learn the fundamental
records management and infonuatics, skills in business principles of computer technology including computer concepts,
communications, accounting and the critical importance of strong tenninology and applications. 40 lecture hours/40 laboratory hours.
customer service. Prerequisite: None.

Upop completion of this program, graduates will be able to seek MCSl05 Introduction to ICD-9 & CPT Coding 3.0 QH
entry-level positions in healthcare facilities or other industries in an Students learn the theory and practice of coding medical services,
administrative support capacity, working in areas such as front office, supplies and equipment using the CPT manual. Shldents leam the
admissions, client -relations~ office revenue, unit coordination, technique for locating frequently used tenus in the manual index.
healthcare services administration and out-patient facilities offices. Students also study' the ICD-9-CM systems and acquire an overview
With strong skill sets in office technology, office- ma'nagement and of the use of ICD-9 coding. 20 lecntre hours/20 laboratory hours.
customer service, the graduate will possess the knowledge and be Prerequisite: None.
positioned to work within the team dynamic required in healthcare
administration today. *COMlOl Communications 4.0QH
Students will learn the concepts of adaptation and critical thinking in
. PROGRAM OUTLINE verbal and written communication. Upon successful completion of
this course, students will demonstrate confidence and credibility in
Course # Course Title Qtr Cr.ditl communicating in a range of communication situations. 40 lecture
Clock Hours hours. PrerequiSite: None.
AHCl40 HealthCare Facilities & Business 4.0/40
Infrastructure OAD120 Computerized Accounting &
MAS!03 Medical Office Procedures 6.0/80 Fiscal Management 6.0 Q H
MCSl05 Introduction to ICD-9 & CPT 3.0/40 This course includes an overview of basic mathematical skills
Coding including addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, fractions,
COMIOI* Communications 4.0/40 decimals, and solving word problems. Students also learn
foundational skills involving management of money including
OADl20 Computerized Accounting & 6.0/80
banking"interest, checkbook maintenance and reconciliation of bank
Fiscal Management
accounts. Simple procedures for accurately maintaining a petty cash
810117 Medical Terminology 4.0/40
fund, as well as costs and ordering office supplies are covered.
OADIIO Word Processing 6.0/80 Snldents will learn basic bOOkkeeping and accounting principles in a
OADl30 Records Management & Unit 3.0/40 fiscal cycle using manual forms, as well as fonnatting & calculating

47
.,

eMedVance
_ _ t,'i't'T\l'l f n' _ _

2009 Academic Programs· Palm Springs Campus


"''''''~I·''''"'''''''('c'",,,,n,.l",,'1-
:!,
:!
MEDICAL BILLING & CODING MCSI07 Basic Insurance~ Delinquent
Claims, & CoUections
4.0/40
,
\'

MCSI09 Radiology, P9-thology & Medicine 3.0/40 ~:


SPECIALIST Coding'
~

Diploma Program MCSlll Anesthesia Coding, Pharmacy 3.0/40


Coding & HCPCS
MCSll2 Evaluation & Management Coding 3.0/40
& Modifiers
MCSl23 Surgery Coding 6.0/80
MCSl24 Insurance Verification. Claim 3.0/40
Denials & Appeals
MCSl25 -Insurance Regulations & 3.0/40
MedicarefMedicaid
MCSl75 ICD-9 & lCD-to Coding 5.0/80
MCSI85 Computerized Practice 3.0/40
ManageIl}ent
MCSl86 Hospital Billing 3.0/40
MCSl88 Electronic Medical Records 2.0/40
MCS225 Medical Billing & Coding 4.0/128
Extemship
TOTAL Qtr Credit HoursJClock Hours 69.0/1008
PROGRAM OBJECTIVE *Denotes General Education course
The Medical Billing & Coding 'Specialist program prepares students
to analyze medical records and asstgn codes to medical conditions, COURSE DESCRIPTIONS
diagnoses and procedures using a complex healthcare coding and
classification system. Accurate codes are essential for research, ACHl40 Healtncare Facilities &
statistical data and for detennining reimbursement of health care Business Jnfrastructure 4.0QH
services. In this course, students \"ill learn the ethicat expectations of all
;ndividual~ working in he_althcare regardless of their role. StUdents
1: Students build knowledge and skill in CPT (Common Procedural will develop reasonable expectations of the range of client reactions
Terminology) and ICD-9 and lCD-l0 (International Classification of in the s~llsili\'~ hca!thcarc environment, as \vcll tbe appropriate
Diseases, 9,th & 10th Editions) coding as well as commonly used response level that healthcare '\vorkers reasonably' display. Students
medical billing and medical record software systems. A strong arc trained in heal theme law related to patient infotlllation,
foundation in the biosciences, medical law and ethics and career HlPPA. safety and compHance with applicable locaL county, state
readiness provide a balanced education, preparing graduates to work and. tcd~ra! fuks and r(;gu\ations. This course include.s
effectively in the medical environment. IllstrlLction III Basi...: Firsl Aid including Bloodbomc!,t\irborne
Pathogens. 40 Iccnlf0 hours. Prerequisite: None:.
Graduates t!nd entry-level cmploymcnt opportunities in physician's
offices, billing offices, hospitals, assisted living facilities, clinics,
AHC147 Professional Development 4.0 QH
:
insurance companies, medical financial consulting practices and This course is CH) orientation to the world or work Professional
II
II private, practice. Graduates are able to sit for the AAPC (American business protocol, professional presence: and a cllstotncr-firsL attitude

IIi) Academy of Professional Coders) and AHIMA (American Health


Infonnation Management Association) Professional Coder
arc explored and discussed. Student") learn tll develop a standard of
excellence and pride in work and _address ethics. trust, respect.
certification examinations. . strategic thinking, and leadership. Students \viH also gain skills in.
I time management, stress lnanagemeti.t, goal setting, communicating,
I PROGRAM OUTLINE presenting ideas and concepts as well as thinking critically and
creatively. 25 .lecture hours!55 laboratoty hours. Pr'erequisitc: None

Ii I
Course #

AHCl40
Course Title

Hcalthcare Facilities,& Business


Qtr Creditl
Clock Hrs
4.0/40
AHC235 Career Development t.O QH
Students karn to prepare for the job search including researching
\i Infrastructure
: prospective employers,_ performing self a~sessment evaluations,
AHCI47 Professional Development 4.0/80 composing effective resumes, and developing techniques for
AHC235 Career Development 2.0/40 successfhl interviews. Students also review for certifications.
Br0102' Anulurny & Phy~iology If 4.0/40 This course includes instruction in Basic First Aid including
/\ nat<Jrny & Physiology II 4.0140
use of an AED, Adult, Child, and Infant CPR and
BrOIl3'
Bloodbome/Airbome Pathogens. 10 leelme hours/30
MAS 103 lvkdical OffIce Procedmes 60/80 laboratory hours. Prerequisite: None
MCS105 Introduction to fCD-9 & CPT 3.0/40
C'o . . ting

44
~el,~,u4
l;:'ili~ H",~"I",p"",~r,
!

• t D
,'" . ,"'" (K!!\ --74-32-19-)- - - - -
ICO-9
Complete the crossword puzzle.

r-
, T
I

A
5 , f--

.,- -
I--
'f. ~
10
q
I"
12

13
5
0

I . ,..--
. ~
15

- I-- 17 q I---

~11>'M"
18

" " ?.Jj':


~-
- -
-
" "
"
ir J;.'

f--
I
15

f--
f--

f--
-
-
-
-
Across.
"
2 morphology of ~~ 0-1 ~
neoplasms (3 words) t'R~ ,-,,- 'I
3 chapter where A OAr> n-r oJ.. 0-
neoplasms codes are u~­
found (2 words)
5 routine gyn exam
7 pinworm infection
11 slurred speech
12 e-codefor insect sting
13 dermatitis due to hair
dyes
14 another name for stroke
17 unspecified primary
malignant neoplasm site
18 external bleeding
hemorrhoids
19 overeating
20 code Devil's Grip
22 COPD code found in ~ f'r"r> '" (VI ~
what chapter (2 words) CJI ~ ~
24 personal hx of leukemia 1110, lc8>
25 XYY syndrome lS'6:B \

Down
~ mini-stroke
4 fluid overload
6 code shell shock
7 Rib CA
8 code anaphylactic shock
9 Accidental pOisoning
E-code for.se.a ~ke
bite ~\lJdoV
10 benign essential HTN ""/01. (
12 sunstroke e-code
15 family hx of polycystic
kidney disease
16 HBP
21 secondary CA of rib
23 mental disorders app f\l?p.o.~ b
deleted (3 words)
• •
ar~ ~~,Ip#~r .
.~".. ,e:

Name .\'- Jtt~··


1 ~--" .

'"r .' ,
Date
(Key # 1 - 601846)

Review Words
M A N G I 0 P L A S T Y A R T H R 0 D E S I S P N E
N A R T H R 0 D E S I S A N P E T E C H I A E T I T
U 0 S L E M B 0 L E C T 0 M Y Y E M E R G E N C Y T
E Y I C Y S U P I N E I N P N E U M 0 N E C T 0 M Y
V C S S I I S Y L L T C Y C N E G R E M E M C V A U
I N E A U S S S L A A I A 0 C C L U S I 0 N L A N P
T E D T 0 L T A T L I C C A B L L E M E R G E N C Y
A G 0 S T P C S P E T E C H I L A A I 0 S T Y I I E
R R R I P C E C I A M P D U T Y G T C R A Y C S L P
U E H D U F M T 0 I 0 B C 0 B S N T S C S G N I L I
C M T B I A B A E H S A 0 A R I I N E I U N E L A D
A E R N P 0 0 C P C Y I M L L S D S H N D B G A R N
U C A P R U L N T E H I S A E I N A 0 E A S R C Y P
Y M C E P I E E L T C I T Y N C E I C C I 0 E C C C
M C U T E F CW E E N S A 0 L Y T Y I S 0 A M U H P
0 A Y E T L T S U P I N E E C A T 0 Y 0 L T E B A I
T V C C E U o p S D S N I N C I A L M T T Y A A R A
C E N H C 0 M S U P I N E I S H E T E Y H C S I G E
E N E I H R Y E E I E G F S E N I P U S L B A I E 0
N T G A I 0 I S A T R I E S I N 0 G R A P H Y R S P
0 R R E A S R S E E T C T R A C T R L Y S I S E T N
M I E Y E C C S M R E Y M 0 T C E L 0 B M E S 0 C D
U C M T V 0 N E E N M C D 0 S I M E T R Y S U P I E
E L E I 0 P Y C L E L C I R T N E V C T I 0 T N E P
N E N S V Y E A E E E C A N 0 I T A T S E F I N A M
P P P S N R C D I S A L R 0 U T I N E C H A R G E E
N C U E P I Y E L C I R T N E V Y T r-
'-' U R A T I V E
0 C 0 C D E D N B U C C A L C R N N 0 I S U L C C 0
I C T E D N 0 0 D I S T A L 0 E Y Y R T E M I S 0 D
T U M N I I S I N E C 0 N T C R T E T W N E W E U C
A B I L Y P I T N S A VV A A T S D I S T A L H R T Y
C S G A C U M C T R I R R E A Y H P A R G 0 N I S I
I I N C N S E A P N I 0 M L N A D R N L A C C U B C
F S I I E C T R C P H I P R 0 U T I N E C H A R G E
I E D D G I R T S T S 0 0 T T T N E I T A P N I P Y
T D N E R N Y E S 0 I B U C C A L A T S I D E U C D
R 0 E M E P R L D G E G R A H C E N I T .U 0 R P A 0
E R T C M A V E N T R I T S I S E T N E C A R 0 H T
C H A Y E T E A S I S E T N E C A R 0 H T S T B A C
E T C A D I N W E N I P U S S U P I N E D I S T A L
R R A Y N E E P U S N 0 I T A T S E F N A M Y E
p A R P R N T I Y F N P 0 I I G N I D N E T T A E C
0 C Y 0 E T I R N I C T T E I N S E I A I E I M N 0
Name _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Date
(Key # 1 - 601846)

Use the clue to figure out the word. Write the word and find the word in the word search puzzle.
7. The total of the costs ofal! supplies that are
1. type care provided in the ER; doesn't matter if the customarily used to provide the service; items
patient is new or established included in the routine charge should not be billed
separately.
Write the word: ________ _
Write the word: _____________ _
found _ _ _ time(s) in the puzzle
found _ _ _ time(s) in the puzzle

2. Prior authorization from a payer that must be


received before elective hospital-based or outpatient 8. suffix meaning to release or free
surgeries are covered; also preauthorization or
authorization. Write the word: ____ _

Write the word: found _ _ _ iime(s) in the puzzle

found _ _ _ time(s) in the puzzle 9. Characteristic sign or symptom of a disease.


Write the word: ____________ _

3. closure of a blood vessel found _ _ _ time(s) in the puzzle


Write the word: ________ _
10. nothing by mouth
found _ _ _ time(s) in the puzzle
Write the word: __ _

4. one who has been formally admitted to a health care found _ _ _ time(s) in the puzzle
facility

Write the word:


11. the organ system relating to lungs, nose and sinuses
found _ _ _ time(s) in the puzzle Write the word: __________ _

found _ _ _ time(s) in the puzzle


5. the physician with the pr;manj responsibility for
care ofthe patient
Write the word: _-, ______ _ 12. procedure for viewing interior or the body using
x-rays and projecting it onto a TV screen
found _ _ _ time( s) in the puzzle Write the word: __________ _

found _ _ _ time(s) in the puzzle


6. surgical or perQ procedure in a vessel to dilate
vessel openings; used to treat arteriosclerosis
disease
Write the word: __________ _

found _ _ _ time(s) in the puzzle



Name ______________________
Date
(Key # 1 - 601846)

13. lying on the back 19. Payment criterion of payers that requires medical
treatments to be appropriate and provided in
Write the word: _____ _ accordance with generally accepted standards of
medical practice.
found ______ time(s) in the puzzle
Write the word:

14. removal of total lung


Write the word: ____________ _ found _ _ _ time(s) in the puzzle

found ____ time(s) in the puzzle


20. before meals

Write the word:


15. farther from the point of attachment or origin
Write the word: _____ _ found ____ time(s) in the puzzle

found _ _ _ time(s) in the puzzle


21. removal of blockage from the vessels
Write the word: __________ _
16. type of patient who has not received services within
the past 3 years
found _ _ _ time(s) in the puzzle
Write the word: __ _

found _ _ _ time(s) in the puzzle 22. surgical immobilization of a joint


Write the word: __________ _
17. Tablet placed in the mouth between cheek and gum
for absorption found _ _ _ time(s) in the puzzle

Write the word:


23. Fee for services other than room and board
found _ _ _ time(s) in the puzzle provided during a patient's hospitalization, such as
anesthesia, pharmacy, supplies, and therapies.

Write the word:


18. removal of fluid from thoracic cavity
Write the word: ____________ _
found _ _ _ time(s) in the puzzle
found _ _ _-time(s) in the puzzle

24. application of force to a limb


Write the word: _______ _

found _ _ _ time(s) in the puzzle


,
.
Name Date
(Key # 1 - 601846)

25. radiographic recording of the sinus or sinus tract


Write the word: _________ _

found time(s) in the puzzle

26. chamber in lower part of the heart


Write the word: ________ _

found _ _ _ time(s) in the puzzle

27. scientific calculation of radiation emitted from


various radioactive sources
Write the word: ________ _

found _ _ _ time(s) in the puzzle

28. small pinpoint hemorrhages


Write the word: ________ _

found _ _ _ time(s) in the puzzle

29. Medication prescribed to kill or remove the


causative agent of a disease

Write the word: _______ _

found _ _ _ time(s) in the puzzle

30. after meals

Write the word:

found _ _ _ time(s) in the puzzle


• Answer Key: Key # 1 - 601846
Review Words
0 p S T E S S ,"".r" N c: 1..

R 0 H I E T I 1
M B R G N C Y I
S U N E T 0 M Y

~
C S M E A U
N I 0 N P
E E R N C Y
G 0 S I' I E
R C L P
E N I L
M E L A 0
A E G A R N
U C R N R C Y P
,
E P E LI U E C C C
T E iN EF M U H P
E T S UL E B A I
C UE I" S /\ R A
E H C 0 M S U G E
N I H R Y E E:: E r. OJ

N T A I 0 .:;; 0 p
0 R E A S P S C T N
M I E C "r T C E 0
U C M T V 0 N S M F::
E L E I U N E i:'1
N E 1\1 S V [ I T
P P P S S
(",
N U'J C I
0 C U C
C'
\" I S T A T

~r'~~
T i..J )\j I.: I::::.
T
I
(>
A b Y P I T , , ,0
L A i\1
S T
c S G A C U M C 1 R i P
A R
I I N C N S E A P R N L
F S I I E N E
I E 0 0 G I T
T 0 N E R T S
R 0 E M E I T
E R T C M N E
C H /\ Y E 0 H
E T
R R A
P A ,',["(
0
F·:'
P
i'
D
N
i o( N
E :~~'

\
U
F
A
G N I 0 N
N E
S E F
,',
hJ c L:,
r.
I.
i \." () i.', T h 1\: C T T i.:
'. '-.; /\ I F: I 1'01 i\ ()

Vous aimerez peut-être aussi