Pathway Description: Healthcare Science: Patient Care is a three-course high school pathway that provides students with an opportunity to explore a variety of healthcare careers, learn about working in a healthcare environment, and gain hands-on patient care experiences. A wide variety of healthcare internships are available to students after completing the pathway. Students in Nursing earn Basic Life Support CPR/AED certification and Be There (Mental Health) certifications. Upon successful completion of the Patient Care pathway and participating in clinicals, students will be able to test to receive their CNA (Certified Nurse Assistant) license.

* High school level pathway offered through Athens Community Career Academy.
* Available for 10th, 11th, and 12th grade students in Clarke County School District.

Introduction to Healthcare Science
The concepts of human growth and development, interaction with patients and family members, health, wellness and preventative care are evaluated, as well as the legal and ethical responsibilities of today’s healthcare provider. Fundamental health care skills development is initiated including microbiology, basic life support and first aid. 

Essentials of Healthcare
The Essentials of Healthcare is a medical-focused anatomy course addressing the physiology of each body system, along with the investigation of common diseases, disorders, and emerging diseases. The prevention of disease and the diagnosis and treatment that might be utilized are addressed, along with medical terminology related to each system. This course provides an opportunity to demonstrate technical skills that enforce the goal of helping students make connections between medical procedures and the pathophysiology of diseases and disorders. The prerequisite for this course is Introduction to Healthcare.

Patient Care Fundamentals
This course is designed to offer students the opportunity to become effective and efficient multi-skilled healthcare providers as they develop a working knowledge of various allied health opportunities.  Students focusing on a career path in the healthcare field may apply classroom/lab knowledge and skills in the clinical setting as they participate in direct or simulated client care.