CHP Begins Cardiovascular Technology Bachelor of Science Degree Program

Jefferson's College of Health Professions (CHP) is now accepting applications for its newly approved cardiovascular technology (CVT) program, which is offered through the College's Department of Diagnostic Imaging, announced Lawrence Abrams, EdD, CHP Dean. The first class will start in September, 1998.

The new program was developed, said Dr. Abrams, to meet the expanding need for qualified, registered cardiovascular imaging professionals, who assist physicians in performing a variety of tasks, including stress testing, Holter monitoring, echocardiography, peripheral vascular imaging, cardiac catheterization and electrophysiology studies.

The need for cardiovascular technologists and technicians is expected to increase 9 percent for subspecialties through the year 2005, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The employment for CVTs with a specialization in cardiac catheterization is expected to increase 21 to 35 percent in the same period.

"Because heart disease is already the leading cause of death in America and because our aging population has a higher incidence of cardiovascular disease, the healthcare system really needs these professionals," said Dr. Abrams. He noted that the new program has strong support from cardiologists and radiologists.

Like most of the College of Health Professions' other programs in allied health and nursing, students enter the cardiovascular technology program as juniors, after completing 39 specific prerequisite credits at another accredited college or university.

Students then spend two years (24 consecutive months) at Jefferson in classroom study, laboratory experience and clinical placements to earn a bachelor of science degree in diagnostic imaging-cardiovascular technology.

Echocardiography is the first-year focus, and students may choose either cardiac catheterization or peripheral vascular imaging for the second year.

At the completion of the program, students will be prepared to take registry examinations in two of the three subspecialties (vascular, echocardiology and cardiac catheterization) to be credentialed as a Registered Cardiovascular Technologist (RCVT), Registered Vascular Technologist (RVT) or a Registered Diagnostic Cardiac Sonographer (RDCS). Students will also have met the requirements for the Certified Cardiographic Examination (CCT) to receive credentialing in EKG, stress testing and Holter monitoring.

Further information about the cardiovascular technology program at Jefferson may be obtained by calling 3-8890.