New lab tech program at Roane State Community College aims to meet local demand from employers

Roane State Community College (RSCC) said in a news release that the college is launching the Medical Laboratory Technology (MLT) program in response to requests from healthcare providers in the region. The two-year program will result in an associate of applied science degree for those who complete the required coursework. The program was launched in cooperation with Covenant Health, which is a healthcare provider in the area with nine hospitals in East Tennessee. Participants in the program may qualify for the Tennessee Reconnect Grant, which promises to pay for the balance of tuition and fees after federal financial aid resources are exhausted. 

The partnership with Covenant Health will allow students access to lab equipment at Covenant's Methodist Medical Center of Oak Ridge for their training while class sessions will take place mostly at RSCC's Oak Ridge Branch Campus. Students will be required to take the standard core of general education classes to earn their degree, along with specialized classes for the program. RSCC says in the news release that twelve students will be admitted to the program every two years. 

Dean of Health Sciences, Dr. Patricia Jenkins, explained the goals of the new program, "The objective is to meet, but not exceed the workforce needs of the local healthcare community for medical laboratory technicians." Jenkins went on to say, "This is a unique opportunity for Roane State to partner with Covenant Health to meet the needs of the area health care community by sharing resources."

To assess the demand for medical lab technicians, an assessment was conducted on projected employment needs. Students who complete the MLT program and pass the required certification exam can expect to work in clinics, doctor's offices, and hospitals conducting diagnostic tests. The program will be led by the former lab manager at Covenant's Cumberland Medical Center in Crossville.