HAZARD, Ky. (WYMT) – Officials with Hazard Community and Technical College (HCTC) announced they will launch the state’s only nuclear medicine imagining program.
Officials say the program’s launch is in response to growing workforce needs in this sector of the region’s healthcare industry.
“The limited training offerings in recent years have resulted in a lot of vacancies,” said Tracey Ison, program coordinator for nuclear medicine imaging. “There is no one to fill the positions of those retiring from the field, so there is a great need. That’s one of the biggest things this program will offer to students: the ability to find a high-demand, high-paying job.”
Nuclear medicine imaging is a diagnostic tool that utilizes small amounts of radioactive materials to diagnose and treat a variety of diseases, including cancer and heart disease.
The program at HCTC will combine coursework in human anatomy, nuclear physics and patient care with hands-on clinical training.
Dr. Jennifer Lindon, president and chief executive officer of HCTC, says the program will open doors for people in the college’s service region and beyond.
“We are thrilled to bring this unique educational opportunity to southeastern Kentucky, working closely with local employers to address critical workforce needs,” said Dr. Lindon. “This program marks a transformative step in healthcare education, preparing students for high-demand careers while strengthening hospitals and clinics across the Commonwealth.”
Applications to get into the program close on May 1.
Classes will begin at the start of the Fall 2025 semester.
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