Ascension Texas welcomes fourth graduating class of MAs, PCTs

When one of the Ascension respiratory service managers found out their graduating high school senior, Natalie Overgoner, could become a certified Medical Assistant (MA) / Patient Care Technician (PCT) in five months at no cost, and receive a wage while doing it, she jumped at the chance to learn more. Her daughter was interested in pursuing a career in the medical field but was not sure about going straight to college from high school, although she had been accepted to Texas State University.

MAs and PCTs are essential personnel in clinics and hospitals and are usually the first person a patient meets after checking in, which often sets the tone for the visit. The technicians obtain patient vitals and are essential in supporting the nursing staff. Because MAs and PCTs are in high demand, turnover can be high. To help ease the shortage, Ascension Texas, in conjunction with the Texas Workforce Commission and Innovative Workforce Projects, designed this new apprenticeship to allow individuals who have no experience in healthcare the opportunity to become MAs and PCTs. Now in its second year, this program has helped support and invest in the next generation of health professionals while addressing the needs of the community.

On Dec. 20, Natalie was among the fourth class of apprentices graduating from the Ascension MA/PCT Apprenticeship program, which includes a dual certification to help support the needs of both clinics and hospitals in the network. The Ascension Academic Administration Department has graduated 23 apprentices in 2023, adding to the Central Texas healthcare workforce and creating a pipeline of clinical support. The program currently boasts an 85% graduation rate, a 95% certification pass rate and a 100% employment placement rate among apprentice graduates.

“You have joined a healthcare family, the Ascension family, that shows up wholeheartedly to care for the most vulnerable in our community and we do so with the highest level of dignity and respect,” said Jenny Laing, interim director, Workforce Development at Ascension Texas, at the apprentices’ graduation ceremony.

Josef Hobdy, director, Physician Practice Operations at Ascension Medical Group Texas, congratulated the apprentices on behalf of AMG and reinforced the importance of their role. “Whether you'll be in our hospital or clinics, MAs and PCTs often serve as the first clinical touch point with our patients. You will have an opportunity to help people when they are most vulnerable and seeking help the most. Each and every single task you’ll complete gives you an opportunity to impact not just that individual, but their entire family.”

As for Natalie and her peers, they all secured permanent roles within Ascension Texas before graduating from the program. Each of the graduates plan to continue to grow their healthcare careers and aspire to become nurses, physicians and radiology technicians.

Click here for more information or email txmaapprentice@ascension.org.