Kirtland to offer ultrasound program

BY SHERI McWHIRTER
smcwhirter@record-eagle.com

April 03, 2008 04:00 am

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GAYLORD -- An ultrasound education program in Gaylord could expand to include other medical technologies, following a recent purchase by Kirtland Community College.

The Michigan School of Cardiovascular Sonography moved from Sault Ste. Marie last year, taking a rental agreement with KCC's Michigan Technical Education Center in Gaylord.

This year, the local college purchased the school for $225,000 and will begin offering classes for the non-invasive imaging technology in August, officials said.

"We want to expand the program, not for just cardiovascular sonography, but also for vascular sonography and perhaps even pediatric sonography in a few years," said Tom Quinn, KCC president, adding that veterinary sonography is another idea discussed by school officials.

The purchase price includes high-tech medical equipment and ownership rights to the program, Quinn said.

The school operated for five years in the Upper Peninsula before moving to Gaylord, graduating dozens of students and placing them at well-paid jobs, including some at area hospitals in Traverse City and Gaylord.

"We've had a lot of interest from students," said Bobbie Otwell, M-TEC academic advisor. "It's an opportunity for a good-paying job and an opportunity for advancement into other sonography and echo-technologies."

Applications already are coming in for the 16 available seats in the fall semester, followed by another 16 spots in January. There are nearly 40 general education students who intend to apply for the program in the future, Quinn said.

Current student Kerry Schenk of Luzerne is two semesters into her studies and looks forward to a good career performing heart ultrasounds, she said.

"It's a very focused program and you have to be prepared to do it all," Schenk said.

Successful students will graduate with an associate's degree in applied science and are eligible for federal financial aid, now that the program officially will be part of the accredited community college, Otwell said.

Further national accreditation for the program itself currently is pending with the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers.

Call (989) 705-3600 for more information about the Gaylord program.