In the dynamic world of the healthcare landscape, the need to hire medical assistants and other professionals who are both skilled and certified transcends mere requirements; it's more than a goal; it's a strategic priority for Allied Health employers. Workforce development is more than just a buzzword; it's a critical component of the healthcare industry. It ensures that healthcare providers have access to skilled professionals who can deliver quality care to patients. Accredited Certifications, such as those offered by the National Healthcareer Association (NHA), are vital in this process. They provide a standardized measure of competence and readiness, ensuring healthcare professionals have the necessary skills to excel in their roles.
Employers in the Allied Health industry face critical challenges affecting their ability to provide quality care and maintain a stable workforce. They understand the crucial role skilled professionals play and are constantly looking for individuals who can seamlessly integrate into their teams and contribute to the patient care team.
The NHA Advantage
NHA has been a beacon of excellence in Allied health education and certification since 1989. With over 1.25 million nationally recognized certifications awarded, they are the largest Allied health certification agency in the United States. Their NCCA-accredited certifications encompass various healthcare roles, such as Medical Assistant (CCMA and CMAA), Pharmacy Technician (CPhT), and more. Obtaining these certifications is often the foundation for successful careers in healthcare. Employers can confidently hire medical assistants and other professionals equipped to make a positive impact in their organization. Learn more about NHA certifications.
Job Corps: A Pathway to Success
Job Corps is the most extensive free residential career training program in the U.S., targeting young adults aged 16 to 24 and offering specialized training in healthcare and other in-demand industries. With over 120 campuses nationwide, it provides training in more than 100 areas across ten vital industries, including healthcare. Focusing on comprehensive training and community engagement, Job Corps aligns its programs with NHA's nationally accredited and recognized certifications. Learn more about Job Corps.
This collaboration between NHA and Job Corps benefits Allied health employers looking to hire front-line health professionals. Job Corps provides hands-on training and education, while NHA provides educators, employers and learners with the resources they need to obtain and retain industry certification. Hiring locally from a pool of well-trained professionals means that employers are getting individuals who are not only technically proficient but also understand the specific needs and nuances of the local community.
Building a Competent and Compassionate Workforce
Allied Healthcare employers are constantly navigating skill gaps and high turnover rates. The collaboration between Job Corps and NHA offers a local solution, enabling employers to hire certified healthcare professionals who are well-trained, motivated, and ready to excel.
This partnership goes beyond just staffing and aims to create a workforce that focuses on building a community. By hiring locally, employers tap into a pool of professionals who not only meet rigorous standards set by NHA but also understand the community's unique needs. It's not just about filling positions; it's about building a workforce that reflects competence, professionalism, and a commitment to community well-being. Job Corps has established a local talent pipeline, which, combined with the high standards set by NHA, offers a cost-effective solution to meet the healthcare industry's demands.
This blog post will explore the symbiotic partnership between Job Corps and NHA, highlighting three remarkable success stories of Stephanie Mansouy, Israel "Izzy" Delgado and Meron Cash. These professionals are not just technically proficient; they embody determination and empathy– skills that are essential within the healthcare setting. For employers looking to hire Allied Healthcare professionals, this local approach is a strategic investment in the community. It's about nurturing local talent, strengthening community ties, and building a healthcare system that reflects the values and needs of the people it serves.
From Barriers to Breakthroughs: Stephanie Mansouy's Journey to Success as a Medical Assistant
When healthcare employers look to hire Allied Healthcare professionals, they seek individuals with determination, skill, and the right certifications. Stephanie Mansouy's story is an example of what they can find.
Stephanie arrived in the United States from Haiti at the age of 7. Despite facing language barriers, she was motivated by the strong work ethic that her father instilled in her. Her dream was to pursue a nursing degree, and she knew that the path to success lay through education and training.
Joining Iroquois Job Corps, Stephanie enrolled in the Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) program. Despite initial struggles with language, her determination led her to complete her high school diploma, TASC (N.Y. High School Equivalency), and even her driver's license.
In 2022, Stephanie's hard work paid off as she earned certifications in CET, CPT, CCMA, and CEHRS. These achievements opened doors for her at St. Joseph Hospital Health Center in Syracuse, NY. Within four months, she also accepted a part-time position as a Phlebotomist at the same hospital.
The training and certifications allowed Stephanie to secure employment and purchase a car, providing her the flexibility to commute and explore her city.
Stephanie's story is an inspiring testament to what Job Corps graduates can achieve. Her determination, drive, and focus on her long-term goals make her an exemplary medical assistant, reflecting the quality and potential that healthcare employers can find when they hire medical assistants through programs like Job Corps.
From Student Leader to Healthcare Professional: Israel "Izzy" Delgado's Journey of Leadership and Compassion
The story of Israel "Izzy" Delgado starts with his enrollment at Oneonta Job Corps Academy in August 2018. He is an excellent example for healthcare employers wishing to hire medical assistants with exceptional empathy, leadership, and expertise.
At the academy, Izzy became well-known by actively engaging in the Student Government Association and serving as its President. He was influential and positively impacted staff, faculty, and peers, as he consistently demonstrated the Career Success Standards.
Although Izzy confessed to being a "bad test taker," he discovered that the learning materials presented within NHA allowed him to focus on what he needed to become certified.
Izzy's impressive resume is a testament to his unwavering determination and the exceptional training he received. After graduating in January 2020 with Phlebotomy, EKG Technician, and CCMA credentials, he was hired directly from his internship at A.O. Fox Hospital in Oneonta, NY.
His career flourished as he moved to Knoxville, TN, taking on roles such as Laboratory Support Technician/Phlebotomist at Fort Sanders Hospital. Today, Izzy enjoys a rewarding career, earning $22.50/hour with full benefits, including a 401(k). His financial stability has allowed him to secure an apartment and car.
And Izzy's impact goes beyond his professional achievements. He has also embraced a selfless role as a Case Manager for Block by Block, a program assisting people experiencing homelessness in Knoxville. Through this initiative, he provides essential support to those less fortunate, helping them access life's necessities.
His gratitude towards Job Corps, the CCMA class experience, NHA, and the "family" he found in staff, faculty, and peers is heartfelt. In his words: "There are no words to describe the gratitude I have for every one of you."
Izzy's story is not just about his success in the healthcare field. His commitment to helping others in his professional role and community work sets him apart as a unique asset for any healthcare organization looking to hire medical assistants.
From Ethiopian Orphan to Healthcare Trailblazer: Meron Cash's Triumph over Adversity
Meron Cash's journey began in Ethiopia, where she was an orphan before being adopted in the U.S. Later, she found herself homeless as a young adult. With unwavering determination, she enrolled in Job Corps in July 2019 and graduated from Oneonta Job Corps Academy in July 2021.
With NHA's support, Meron's Phlebotomy, EKG, and CCMA training became the foundation of her knowledge. NHA's comprehensive resources, including study guides and practice exams, were instrumental in her success.
Meron's success is a reflection of her dedication and the excellent education she received. Hired at A.O. Fox Hospital in Oneonta as a Phlebotomist, she quickly became Laboratory Support Technician II (LSTII), earning $18.75/hour with full benefits, retirement options, and other perks.
Her impact extends to training other Job Corps students at the lab, sharing her knowledge and experience. Meron's life has transformed in the past two years; she has purchased a car, moved into her apartment, and is building a secure financial future.
Meron diligently ensured that all her certifications remained active before they expired, reflecting her commitment to maintaining the highest standards in her professional healthcare role. Her proactive approach underscores the importance she places on continuous learning and adherence to industry best practices, and led to her receiving a raise from her employer, recognizing her dedication and competence.
Meron's journey is a testament to the potential of determination, guidance, and support. Her journey highlights the latent potential within every individual, just waiting to be unleashed by the right opportunities.
A Partnership for Success: The Value of Hiring Local Job Corps Graduates with NHA Certifications
The success stories of Stephanie Mansouy, Israel "Izzy" Delgado, and Meron Cash are more than just individual achievements; they highlight the immense value that Job Corps graduates with NHA certifications bring to healthcare employers and their local communities.
Job Corps offers comprehensive programs that equip students with free career training, fostering leadership, empathy, and expertise for success. These initiatives are designed to guide young people toward opportunity, paving the way for personal and professional growth. It prepares graduates for the evolving American workforce by providing relevant skills and focusing on continuing education.
NHA certifications help assess each individual’s skill set and preparedness to excel in the healthcare industry. Allied Healthcare employers seeking to hire medical assistants with a robust combination of clinical, administrative, and digital skills will find candidates like Stephanie, Israel, and Meron ideal for their organizations. With 89% of organizations encouraging or requiring medical assistant certification* and 93% specifically valuing Phlebotomy certification*, these figures emphasize the significant demand for well-trained professionals within the healthcare field.
Many NHA certification programs offer inclusive and supportive paths for individuals like Izzy to gain the necessary skills and an accredited, industry-recognized certification, even if they face challenges like being a "bad test taker." NHA’s certification resources focus on foundational learning, personalized review, flexibility, and industry connections, making it a valuable resource for Allied Healthcare employers looking to fill in-demand roles.
The collaboration between Job Corps and NHA ensures that these graduates meet industry standards, making them valuable assets. Allied Healthcare employers looking to hire medical assistants locally can also leverage career resources provided by NHA to help find qualified candidates ready to make a positive impact. Hiring locally, especially when looking to hire medical assistants, offers Allied Healthcare employers a chance to build a skilled and empathetic workforce. Local hires, familiar with community needs, foster trust with patients. By investing in local talent, employers create a valuable pathway to certified professionals prepared to meet the demands of the healthcare industry. It's a model that other industries and regions could look to as an example of effective workforce development and community collaboration.
The partnership between Job Corps and NHA is a powerful alliance that continues to shape the future of healthcare, one success story at a time. If you're an Allied Healthcare employer looking to hire medical assistant professionals, these stories offer a glimpse into the potential that awaits your organization. Consider the benefits and explore the opportunities that Job Corps graduates with NHA certifications can bring to your team.
* Source: 2020 Industry Outlook
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