Health Science

Health Science Education is a pre-professional program designed to prepare students for success in medical career majors at the college level. Following a fast-paced introduction of proper conduct in medical environments, basic medical skills such as charting and hand washing, anatomy and physiology, medical terminology, and the study of entry level college requirements in medical fields, students have the opportunity to observe/experience medical professionals in practice in virtually every medical profession. In addition, students have the opportunity to earn certifications in CPR/AED, CNA, or Pharmacy Technician and earn dual college credit in Medical Terminology. Programs are located at Jasper and Wood Memorial High School. The class meets for two periods every day and accepts only seniors in good academic standing.

The curriculum includes safety, first aid, anatomy and physiology, medical terminology, laboratory practice, patient care, and critical medical ethics.  Students, before being released to enter the real world of medicine as an official school visitor, must understand and be able to document proper behavior, dependability, and academic success in the health careers class. Teachers are degreed medical professionals with experience in medical careers. A unique aspect of this program is the ability to allow students to critically analyze their interests in a variety of medical professions. Students will often change their mind about a major due to an experience shadowing a medical professional and a very few students will learn that a medical profession is not in their future. Many students receive direct and early admit into difficult admission programs often due to their experiences in the Health Careers class.

Medical health careers are experiencing a critical shortage.  The Bureau of Labor Statistics has identified 17 health care occupations among the top 30 fastest growing careers in the United States. Registered Nurses are annually in the highest need category among all employment.  As our population ages and research provides yet more advancement in the treatment of disease and healthy living, we will continue to see a high need in health careers. Any student considering a future in the health care industry will greatly benefit from this program.