Midland College dual credit Patient Care Tech students pass phlebotomy certification exam November 30, 2022

On Tuesday, November 15, Midland College (MC) students enrolled in the dual credit Patient Care Technician program took the National Health Career Association Phlebotomy Certification exam.  Ninety-two percent of the students passed the exam during this first attempt.

“Kudos to the amazing teachers—Stephanie Gilbreath and Maci Day,” Wendy Wood-Collins, MC dean of Health Sciences Dual Credit and Continuing Education, said.  “Never has a group of students been more supported and encouraged, and it paid off.  A 92 percent pass rate is definitely something to celebrate!”

The Midland College Patient Care Technician program is a dual credit program where high school students receive both college and high school credit.  These students are seniors at MISD high schools and began the program last year.  During the spring semester, they passed the Certified Nurse Aide exam, and this year, in addition to the Phlebotomy Certification exam, they will also take the EKG Technician Certification exam and a comprehensive Patient Care Technician Certification exam.  

“Once these students pass all certifications—by the time they finish high school, they will not only have 15 hours of college credit, but also be eligible for employment as a Patient Care Technician,” Wood-Collins said.  “They will have competencies beyond that of a Nurse Aide with the scope of a variety of patients ranging from pediatrics to emergency room and critical care.  Many of them also choose to continue their education in healthcare fields such as nurses, respiratory care technicians, radiography technicians, paramedics and even physicians.  By taking healthcare courses in high school, these students are able to explore the many exciting career opportunities available in the healthcare industry.”