Ten Complete Medical-Office Training Class at North Campus

Ten people from Tioga and Potter counties were recognized recently in a ceremony at Pennsylvania College of Technology's North Campus that commemorated their successful completion of an intensive, short-term Medical Office Support Training program.

The participants developed proficiency in medical-office practice and processes, computer applications, business principles, medical terminology, insurance and related skills. The trainees were assigned to medical offices throughout the region, where they shadowed office employees and gained a "real-world" appreciation of day-to-day operations.

"As I'm an adult with family responsibilities, this program was a great way for me to further my education and develop advanced, marketable skills in a short time frame," said Lori A. Smith, a participant from Blossburg.

Penn College administrators and faculty worked closely with staff from Laurel Health System, Southern Tier Pediatrics, Wellsboro Family Practice, the North Central Area Health Education Center, Charles Cole Memorial Hospital and other medical organizations to identify shadowing placements and to ensure program alignment with current and emerging workforce needs. The Tioga County CareerLink and Potter County Workforce Development offices were involved throughout.

Completing the program were: Penny M. Boom, Wellsboro; Vicki L. Clark, Lawrenceville; Amy L. Davy, Liberty; Faith Howell, Elkland; Becky S. Lucrezi, Coudersport; Edeltraut M. Mager, Middlebury Center; Floral I. Rumsey, Elkland; Sally A. Schweit, Wellsboro; Lori A. Smith, Blossburg; and Joyce Ann Zepp, Wellsboro.

Joining the graduates at the Sept. 14 celebration were family, friends and College staff. A luncheon beforehand featured entrees catered by "The Three Sisters" as well as pot-luck side dishes prepared by graduates for their guests and fellow students. Both events were held in the North Campus Commons. Following remarks and accolades by faculty and friends, each student received a certificate of completion and a rose.

This is the second class to have completed this specialized training program developed several years ago in a cooperative effort between North Campus and the College's Technology Transfer Center. Twelve students completed the initial program in December 1999.

The Northern Tier Workforce Investment Board has certified this noncredit program as meeting a vital employment-training need in the region. Labor-market data across the country show the medical-office field as a high-demand occupation, with the need for skilled employees frequently outstripping the available supply.

Program faculty and site supervisors were impressed with the participants' skills, attitude and the speed with which they learned. The goal is to prepare students to compete successfully for entry-level medical office positions and, once hired, to meet or exceed employers' expectations.

Those interested in more information about the program may contact the North Campus at (570) 724-7703 or visit the Web site.