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High School Programs

Biomedical Technology, Allied Health, and Health Science Technology

Baltimore County offers an array of programs for students interested in entering the medical or health professions or pursuing science/health related majors in college. Program offerings vary from school to school, but generally feature interaction with medical/health professionals in an internship setting, simulated practice with equipment and technology relevant to the health care profession, and affiliations with state and national organizations.

Biomedical Technology: This program is designed to introduce students to the concepts and techniques utilized in biotechnology while providing them with a strong background in biological sciences. Students are prepared for two-year and four-year programs in pre-medicine, allied health, and biotechnology. Opportunities exist for students to participate in Advanced Placement classes and also earn college credit while enrolled in high school.

Allied Health/Certified Nursing Assistant: The Allied Health/Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) program introduces students to the various occupations found in the health care field. Students apply knowledge of anatomy and physiology, medical terminology, basic patient care procedures, medication calculations, and communication skills necessary to assist clients in a variety of health care facilities. Instruction includes classroom discussions, demonstrations, practice laboratory activities and clinical internships at a local hospital and geriatric long-term care facility. Students earn a minimum of 75 hours of service learning which will satisfy the Maryland State graduation requirement. Successful completion of the entire program enables students to qualify for Maryland State Certification as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA). They may also pursue certification as a Geriatric Nursing Assistant. Students will also be prepared for college level Allied Health courses.

Allied Health: Students gain knowledge and exposure for career decisions in the multidimensional field of Allied Health. Practical assignments are given in a variety of health care facilities creating opportunities to understand the wide range of careers in health care. The curriculum includes: basic preparation in anatomy, physiology, kinesiology, mathematics, and related natural sciences. Topics covered in Allied Health include: medical terminology, introduction to health care/medical careers, legal and ethical concerns, first aid, CPR, disease, basic patient care, human development, pain theory and control, pathology, rehabilitative and therapeutic theory and technique, wellness programming, and training and conditioning concepts. Internship opportunities exist for senior students. Upon completion of the program, students may continue their post-secondary training in Emergency Medical Technology, Paramedicine, Nursing, Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Physician's Assistant, Sports Medicine, Respiratory Therapy, Speech Therapy, Pharmacy, Audiology, Psychology, Wellness, Fitness, and many other Allied Health Careers.

Health Science Technology: The Health Science Technology Program introduces students to the various occupations found in the health care field. The program provides opportunities for students to learn the basic skills used by entry-level health care assistants. Students apply knowledge of anatomy and physiology, medical terminology, health office management skills, basic assessment procedures, medical mathematics, and technical communications necessary to provide patient care in a variety of health care settings. Instruction includes classroom discussions, demonstrations, practice laboratory activities, and internships at a local hospital center, in medical office and clinic setting. Students earn a minimum of 75 hours of service learning that will satisfy the Maryland State graduation requirement. Students who complete the entire program successfully qualify to take the Maryland State certification examination to become a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA). At the completion of the course, students may continue their health care education in postsecondary programs at colleges and private institutions or seek entry-level employment.

For more information about Biomedical Technology, Allied Health, and Health Science Technology Programs, please check the following links (not sponsored by Baltimore County Public Schools):

• Biotechnology Education and the Internet. ERIC Digest. www.ed.gov/databases/
• Descriptions of Medical and Health Support Professions - www.bls.gov/oco/
• Maryland Board of Nursing - www.mbon.org/main.php

Salary Information for Medical and Health Related Careers:

• Medical Professional and Technical Occupations - www.bls.gov/oes/2000/
• Healthcare Support Occupations - www.bls.gov/oes/2000/oes_31He.htm
• The 2000-10 Job Outlook in Brief - www.bls.gov/opub/ooq/2002/spring/

Schools Offering
Biomedical and Allied Health Related Magnet Programs
(Scroll to find one in your area.)