CARTERVILLE (JALC NEWS) – John A. Logan College will host a ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate the opening of new labs and classrooms for three key health sciences programs: Adult Cardiac Diagnostic Medical Sonography, Medical Laboratory Technology, and Surgical Technology.
The event will occur at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 11, at the college’s Carterville campus, located on the lower level of the B-Wing. The public is invited to attend and learn more about these exciting new opportunities in healthcare education.
The new labs support Medical Laboratory Technology and Surgical Technology previously offered through the Southern Illinois Collegiate Common Market (SICCM) and provide new space for the Adult Cardiac Diagnostic Medical Sonography program. The project was completed with a generous donation from Deaconess Illinois Medical Center and will provide students with hands-on training in cutting-edge facilities. These programs are integral to addressing the growing demand for highly skilled healthcare professionals in Southern Illinois.
About the Programs:
Adult Cardiac Diagnostic Medical Sonography (DMS):
Cardiac sonographers use high-frequency sound waves to create images of the heart and its structures, assisting in diagnosing and monitoring heart disease. This program awards an associate in applied science degree and includes clinical rotations across hospitals and clinics. The job outlook for cardiac sonographers is expected to grow by 11% from 2023-2033, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The program, accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP), boasts a 100% job placement rate. Graduates earn the Registered Diagnostic Medical Sonographer (RDCS) credential through the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS).
Medical Laboratory Technology (MLT):
Medical laboratory technicians play a crucial role in diagnosing diseases through laboratory tests. Students in the MLT program learn to perform diagnostic testing on various bodily fluids, supporting patient care and treatment. The program, accredited by the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS), offers an associate in applied science degree and includes extensive clinical experience. With a 5% job growth expected through 2033, graduates enter an in-demand job market, and the program has a 100% job placement rate. JALC is the only provider of this program in Southern Illinois within a 75-mile radius.
Surgical Technology Program (STP):
Surgical technologists assist surgeons during operations, ensuring the operating room is prepared and sterile. They are responsible for equipment and instruments and supporting patient safety throughout the surgical process. The STP program offers an associate in applied science degree and prepares students through clinical rotations in diverse hospital settings. The job outlook for surgical technologists is projected to grow by 6% through 2033. The program, seeking initial accreditation through CAAHEP, boasts a 100% job placement rate, with many graduates securing positions before completing their studies.
The ribbon-cutting event will mark a milestone in JALC’s commitment to providing high-quality, hands-on education in essential healthcare fields.