The occupational preparation programs prepare students for entry-level positions in a particular health field or for advanced training in health occupations at the technical and professional levels. Specific entry-level positions include:

• nursing--certified nurse's aide or licensed practical nurse
• medical--medical assistant, emergency medical technician, or surgical technologist
• dental--dental assistant
• allied health--physical or occupational therapy aide, respiratory therapy assistant, rehabilitation aide, dietary aide, laboratory aide, geriatric aide, home health aide, housekeeping aide, sterile supply aide, transportation aide, or veterinary assistant.

Technical and professional career opportunities that may be of interest to students enrolled in Health and Medical Sciences include physician; medical scientist; biomedical engineer; physician's assistant; laboratory technician; physical, occupational, and recreational therapist; psychiatrist; psychologist; health care journalist; dentist; nurse practitioner; and veterinarian.

Teacher-supervised work education or on-the-job training such as a clinical practicum, a cooperative program, or a work experience situation is an integral part of each program. Some require minimal time, while others such as practical nursing may require as much as six months of teacher-supervised clinical hospital practice.

Local school divisions determine the structure of Health and Medical Sciences courses. Programs may be offered in two- or three-hour blocks or in a one-hour block the first year and a two-hour block the second year.

Virginia HOSA (Health Occupations Students of America) is the recognized co-curricular student organization for approved Health and Medical Sciences programs and courses. Local HOSA activities reinforce the skills, knowledge, and behavior that contribute to successful employment.

For additional information about the Health and Medical Sciences Program at the secondary level in the Commonwealth of Virginia contact: