Siemens Healthcare Diagnostics and the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) awarded a combined $180,000 in scholarships to the nation’s top undergraduate and graduate medical laboratory students for the 2013-2014 academic year through the Siemens—ASCP Scholarship Program. According to spokespersons, the Program was established to address the nation’s shortage of qualified medical laboratory personnel, to defray education costs, and to promote the profession.
“We extend our congratulations to all of the scholarship recipients” says Michael Reitermann, CEO, Siemens Healthcare Diagnostics Division. “As these outstanding individuals enter the vital profession of diagnostic medicine, they will without a doubt play a critical role in the delivery of quality healthcare to patients. Siemens is privileged to support them in this endeavor.”
A recent ASCP survey reveals that the national average of job vacancy rates for medical laboratory professionals ranges between 4% and 8%, depending upon the specific area. However staffing shortages will continue to significantly challenge laboratories as the bulk of the current workforce is expected to retire within the next decade.
“In addition to a continuing workforce shortage laboratories anticipate seeing a greater demand for testing as the U.S. population ages” says Mark Bailey MA HTL(ASCP)CM, Chair of the ASCP Scholarship Committee. “The Siemens—ASCP Scholarships address this challenge by fostering the next generation of skilled laboratory professionals and leaders.”
Awards are available to eligible students in the U.S. pursuing associate bachelor or master’s degrees in medical laboratory science. Special Legacy Scholarships are awarded to students who follow family members into the laboratory profession. Scholarships are awarded by the ASCP, which also administers the program. Learn more about the Siemens-ASCP Scholarship Program.
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