This fall, Geneva College launched the nation′s first cardiovascular technology (CVT) graduate degree program. Through a partnership with Inova Heart and Vascular Institute (IHVI) in Falls Church, Virginia, Geneva students can now earn a Master of Science degree in Cardiovascular Science.
Cardiovascular technologists (CVTs) work directly with cardiologists to perform diagnostic and therapeutic procedures. Their assistance has become vital in the growing trend toward non-surgical solutions for cardiovascular diseases.
“The burden on cardiologists and their support staff will only increase as the baby boomer generation ages and cardiovascular disease continues to be among the leading killers in our nation,” says Dr. Daryl Sas, chair of Geneva′s Department of Biology.
Geneva′s CVT program gives students the unique opportunity to combine a Christian liberal arts education with medical studies. After spending their first three years studying biology at Geneva, students go to the IVH I to earn their bachelor′s, master′s or combined B.S./M.S. in cardiovascular science.
“Geneva′s program trains CVTs in the area of invasive cardiovascular technology, which involves the insertion of a catheter and various tools to detect and open blocked arteries,” Sas says.
The graduate-level program includes training in electrophysiology, which deals with the insertion of pacemakers and laser surgery on the electrical system of the heart. The improving success rate of these procedures has caused hospital case loads to steadily grow, not only at the IHV I, but in other hospitals nationwide. Integrating faith with learning, Geneva′s CVT program is meeting this growing need in the medical field.
“[We are] committed to training and educating competent servant-leaders who will embrace cardiovascular technology to provide safe, quality, and compassionate patient care,” says Dr. David Essig, director of the CVT Program.
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