ACM is accepting applications for its next cohort of Medical Laboratory Technology program students. ACM will host an Instagram Live Q&A for prospective students on Oct. 20 at 12 p.m. A national shortage of certified medical laboratory technicians and medical laboratory scientists, exacerbated by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, has led local hospitals to offer incentives for qualified program graduates.
MEDICAL LABORATORY TECHNOLOGY PROGRAM ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS:
Med Lab Tech Shortage Multiplied Due to Continuing Pandemic
CUMBERLAND, Md. (Oct. 12, 2021) – Clinical laboratory jobs, 50 at WVU Medicine and 139 at UPMC, are on Allegany College of Maryland’s Medical Laboratory Technology Program Director Stacey Rohrbaugh’s mind. She is currently accepting applications for the college’s next cohort of Medical Laboratory Technology program students. The priority deadline is November 1.
“We invite more students to choose this field of study. Our graduates are in demand and COVID-19 has only magnified the existing shortage. The impact on patient care is clear: When you lack in-house laboratory technicians, phlebotomists and scientists to do blood draws and conduct testing, institutions could be forced to send out their testing or limit testing menus. These practices can affect specimen integrity, delay turnaround time and prove dangerous in critical care situations.” said Rohrbaugh.
Incentives Address Staffing Challenges
"The laboratory's vital role in patient care became even more evident when labs were overrun with testing due to the pandemic. Throughout the existing shortage of technicians and scientists, we've been fortunate to maintain a program at ACM that provides excellent, well-trained medical lab technicians. These graduates are highly sought after by hospitals in our tri-state region because of the high number of vacancies available. Institutions like ours are offering attractive sign-on bonuses and other benefits," said Kimberly Smith, director of laboratory services at UPMC Western Maryland. "If you're contemplating a career in healthcare, this program is a great start. You are truly needed."
The MLT program at ACM is designated a Health Manpower Shortage Program by the Maryland Higher Education Commission, meaning that the Maryland State Department of Health and Mental Hygiene has determined it to be an in-demand health occupation where qualified workers are in short supply.
Personalized Academic Support
Potential for Advancement
The Medical Laboratory Technology program is a career ladder program, meaning that additional credentials may lead to opportunities for advancement or specialization. The profession is one that recognizes prior educational attainment.
Scholarships Available
The ACM Foundation offers four scholarships with multiple awards each specifically for MLT students. Other financial aid and assistance through the Foundation and college make the program an affordable option for recent high school graduates, nontraditional students and college grads seeking quick entry in an in-demand field.
Instagram Live Q&A Scheduled
Professor Rohrbaugh and current MLT students will host an Instagram Live Q&A on Wed., Oct. 20 at 12pm @alleganycollegeofmd. Participants can post questions to receive real-time answers and go behind-the-scenes in the MLT lab for a demonstration of how a rapid COVID-19 test is administered and processed by students.
For questions regarding program information or to enroll, contact Stacey Rohrbaugh at 301-784-5547.