HCC to Offer 2 New Programs Beginning this Fall Term

Hopkinsville Community College (HCC) was recently approved by the Kentucky Community and Technical College System Board of Regents to implement two new degree programs, Associate in Applied Science (AAS) in Health Science Technology and Associate in Applied Science in Medical Information Technology, starting in the fall term of 2012, which begins Monday, August 13.

We are excited to be able to offer these two new areas of study, stated HCC President Jim Selbe. The college is sensitive to the needs of area employers and students. We feel that these new programs will give students marketable skills that local employers are searching for.

The AAS in health science technology (HST) is designed to prepare students for entry-level career opportunities in the field of healthcare and health-related services. Graduates will gain marketable skill set for direct care services as well as the foundation needed to understand current health care delivery. Many of the general education and core courses are required for completion of varied professional health programs. These include diagnostic medical sonography, medical assisting, nursing, physical therapy assistant, radiography, respiratory care, and surgical technology. The HST program also provides a smooth transition to an allied health or nursing program for students that select to expand upon their education. A certificate for pharmacy technician is also available under this program.

HST graduates could be employed in hospitals, clinics, doctors offices, health departments, assisted living, skilled nursing and other healthcare facilities. Careers include medical and clinical laboratory technicians, Medicaid nurse aid, advanced nurse aid, phlebotomist and pharmacy technicians. According to the Kentucky Occupational Outlook to 2018, average annual wages for health science technology professionals range from $22,400 to $27,500.

The AAS in medical information technology (MIT) is designed to prepare students for careers such as medical secretary, medical transcriptionist, medical coding specialist, medical office manager, and medical receptionist or hospital admission specialist. According to the Kentucky Occupational Outlook to 2018, average annual wages in the medical information technology professionals range from $26,000 to $31,700.

The MIT program offers tracks in medical coding, electronic medical records and medical office management. Certificates are available for medical unit coordinator, hospital admissions specialist, medical receptionist, medical coding and electronic medical records. Also, a diploma is available for medical records specialist.

Those interested in the HST program can contact Beth Beverly at (270) 707-3869 for additional information. For more information about the MIT program, contact Bob Smith at (270) 707-3892.