Healthcare Education Programs at LAUSD – North Valley Occupational Center

Located in Mission Hills, CA, the North Valley Occupational Center (NVOC) under the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) offers a range of healthcare education programs designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary for a career in the healthcare industry. The programs are designed to cater to a diverse student body, including those seeking to enter the workforce quickly and those looking for more in-depth training.

Medical Assistant Program

The Medical Assistant program at NVOC is comprehensive and prepares students for various roles in medical offices, clinics, and other healthcare settings. The curriculum covers both administrative and clinical skills, including:

• Medical Terminology: Understanding the language used in the healthcare industry.
• Anatomy and Physiology: Basic concepts of the human body.
• Patient Care: Techniques for patient interaction and care.
• Clinical Procedures: Hands-on training in procedures like taking vital signs, drawing blood, and administering medications.
• Administrative Skills: Training in medical billing, coding, and office management.

The program often includes an externship, providing students with real-world experience in a healthcare setting.

Nursing Assistant Program

The Nursing Assistant program is ideal for those looking to quickly enter the nursing field. This program focuses on teaching students the essential skills needed to provide basic care to patients in a variety of settings, such as hospitals, long-term care facilities, and home healthcare environments. Key areas of study include:

• Basic Nursing Skills: Techniques for assisting patients with daily activities, such as bathing and feeding.
• Patient Care: Monitoring vital signs and understanding patient needs.
• Health and Safety Protocols: Implementing infection control measures and safety protocols.
• CNA Certification Preparation: Preparing students to sit for the California Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) examination.

This program combines classroom instruction with hands-on clinical practice under the supervision of experienced nursing professionals.

Pharmacy Technician Program

The Pharmacy Technician program aims to prepare students for a career in pharmacy services. The curriculum includes:

• Pharmaceutical Terminology: Learning the specific terminology used in pharmacies.
• Prescription Processing: Understanding how to receive, interpret, and fill prescriptions.
• Pharmacy Law and Ethics: Covering the legal and ethical issues surrounding pharmacy practice.
• Pharmacology: Basics of drug interactions, side effects, and classifications.
• Compounding and Dispensing Medications: Practical skills for preparing and dispensing medications.

Upon completing the program, students are prepared to take the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE), which is necessary for certification in California.

Dental Assistant Program

The Dental Assistant program at NVOC provides students with the skills and knowledge necessary to assist in dental practices. The curriculum includes:

• Dental Terminology: Understanding the specific language used in dental offices.
• Patient Interaction: Techniques for effectively interacting with dental patients.
• Chairside Assisting: Assisting dentists during procedures and preparing patients for treatments.
• Radiology: Training in taking and processing dental X-rays.
• Infection Control: Maintaining a sterile environment in the dental office.

This program also prepares students for dental assisting certification exams and includes practical experience in a dental office setting.

Get Started Today

To pursue a career in healthcare, enrolling in one of the programs at LAUSD – North Valley Occupational Center could be your first step. These programs offer a blend of classroom education and practical experience, preparing you for certification exams and entry-level positions in the healthcare industry. For more information on enrollment, program specifics, and upcoming sessions, visit the NVOC website or contact their admissions office. Take the first step toward a fulfilling career in healthcare today!