Healthcare Education Programs at Amherst County Public Schools, Amherst, VA

Amherst County Public Schools (ACPS) offers a variety of healthcare education programs designed to prepare students for careers in the healthcare industry. These programs provide students with the necessary skills, knowledge, and certifications to enter the workforce or pursue further education in the field. Below are some of the key healthcare education programs available:

Health and Medical Sciences Program

Nurse Aide Program

The Nurse Aide Program at Amherst County Public Schools equips students with the foundational skills required to become certified nurse aides (CNA). The curriculum covers essential topics such as patient care, safety, and ethical considerations in healthcare. Students gain hands-on experience through clinical rotations, working under the supervision of licensed professionals in real-world healthcare settings. Upon successful completion, students are eligible to take the Virginia Board of Nursing CNA certification exam.

Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Program

The EMT Program prepares students to provide emergency medical care at a basic life support level. The curriculum includes training in patient assessment, trauma care, cardiac emergencies, and airway management. Students participate in skills labs and field training experiences, where they apply their knowledge in simulated emergency situations. Graduates of the program can sit for the National Registry EMT Basic certification exam, enabling them to work as entry-level EMTs.

Medical Terminology Course

A fundamental course offered within the Health and Medical Sciences Program is the Medical Terminology course. This course is essential for students who wish to pursue careers in healthcare, as it provides a thorough understanding of medical vocabulary. Students learn the language of medicine, including prefixes, suffixes, and root words, enabling them to communicate effectively in a healthcare environment.

Project Lead The Way (PLTW) Biomedical Science

ACPS participates in the Project Lead the Way Biomedical Science program, a rigorous sequence of courses that explore the concepts of human medicine, physiology, genetics, microbiology, and public health. The PLTW curriculum encourages students to engage in hands-on, problem-based learning activities, fostering critical thinking and collaboration. Key courses include:

• Principles of Biomedical Science: Introduces students to the field of biomedical science through interactive lessons and labs that investigate the human body systems and health conditions.
• Human Body Systems: Provides an in-depth study of anatomy, physiology, and the interrelationships among different body systems.
• Medical Interventions: Focuses on the preventive, diagnostic, and therapeutic aspects of healthcare, illustrating the real-world challenges faced by medical professionals.
• Biomedical Innovation: Allows students to apply their knowledge to solve open-ended problems related to biomedical science and public health.

Get Started Today

Amherst County Public Schools’ healthcare education programs provide an excellent foundation for students aspiring to join the healthcare industry. Whether through hands-on clinical experience, immersive courses, or certification opportunities, ACPS prepares students to meet the growing demand for healthcare professionals with the skills and knowledge required for success. For more information on enrollment and program specifics, visit the ACPS website or contact the school’s guidance counselor.