MEMPHIS,
Tenn., July 8, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The U.S.
healthcare industry is facing a workforce shortage due in part to
an aging population, increasing patient acuity and limited pipeline
of new healthcare professions.
According to U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, surgical
technologists are one of several in-demand healthcare positions
with a projected 5,900 to 8,600 jobs created each year through
2032.
Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare's career advancement program is
not only offering employees a path to grow their careers, it is
meeting the growing demand for healthcare workers in key positions.
The MLH Associate Advancement Program (MAAP) graduated 59
employees who earned bachelor's degrees or completed
specialized certification programs, including surgical
technologists.
Since 2019 and in partnership with the University of Memphis, Methodist Le Bonheur offers
educational opportunities to employees who have interest in
advancing their careers. The program has doubled in size since its
inaugural graduating class in 2021 and more than 150 employees have
advanced their careers while increasing their salaries and earning
potential. This year marks the largest graduating class since the
program's inception.
"With this year's class alone, we've been able to fill nearly 20
previously vacant surgical technologist positions across our
hospitals," said director of Workforce Development Dexter McKinney.
"Surgical technologists must have a sharp eye for detail and an
unrelenting commitment to safety. Through the 15-month accelerated
program, participants hone those skills so they can assist with
general surgery, specialized cases and even cross into outpatient
clinical settings. The opportunities within this one certification
are endless if you have the desire to learn."
Crystal Rivera was well on her
way to becoming a nurse while working as a unit coordinator at
Methodist South Hospital when a cancer diagnosis interrupted her
dreams. She took a break from school but never lost sight of her
life's calling – to serve on the frontlines of healthcare.
"Once I was ready to return to school, I learned I'd need to
retake many clinicals," said Rivera. "I knew about MAAP and decided
to enroll in the surgical technology program. It perfectly aligns
my loves – a quick-pace clinical setting and direct patient
engagement."
The accredited advancement program helps the healthcare system
fill vital roles like emergency department technicians, certified
nursing assistants, medical assistant limited scope X-ray
operators, in addition to positions in administration and
management.
Any employee in good standing is eligible to participate after
six months of employment. Employees can explore advanced education
degrees and certifications at their own pace and with little or no
out-of-pocket expense. The program offers a curriculum-based
roadmap for intentional career development through in-person and
virtual classroom learning and hands on training.
"I want to be able to provide for my daughter," said
Tyreese Bell, first time father and
patient escort at Methodist South. "She's only three months old,
but she needs to know she can count on me and be proud of me. MAAP
was my ticket to long-term financial stability for my young
family."
Bell was the first in his graduating class of emergency medical
technicians to pass his certification exam.
"Our best talent lies within our organization, so of course we
want to build paths for our Associates to grow and thrive," said
McKinney.
For more information on MAAP and career opportunities at
Methodist Le Bonheur, please visit MethodistHealth.org/careers.
About Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare
Based in Memphis, Tennessee,
Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare has been caring for patients and
families regardless of their ability to pay for more than 100
years. Guided by roots in the United Methodist Church and founded
in 1918 to help meet the growing need for quality healthcare in the
greater Memphis area, MLH has
grown from one hospital into a comprehensive healthcare system with
13,000 Associates supporting six hospitals, including nationally
ranked Le Bonheur Children's Hospital, ambulatory surgery centers,
outpatient facilities, a hospice residence and physician and
specialty practices serving communities across the Mid-South. From
transplants and advanced heart procedures to expert neurology
services and compassionate cancer care, Methodist Le Bonheur
Healthcare offers clinical expertise with a focus on improving
every life we touch.
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SOURCE Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare