Decatur County Memorial Hospital (DCMH) is celebrating the latest graduates of its Medical Assistant (MA) Apprenticeship Program, recognizing the hard work, growth, and hands-on experience they have gained while preparing for careers in healthcare.
All graduates successfully passed the National Healthcareer Association’s certification exam, earning the Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) credential.
Throughout the program, apprentices gained experience across DCMH’s clinic areas, spending time alongside providers, experienced medical assistants, and other members of the healthcare team. They also worked directly with patients, learning how to support their needs, communicate effectively, and contribute to the daily operations of a medical practice.
This rotation through different clinical settings gave each apprentice a well-rounded view of the medical assistant role and the opportunity to learn how care is delivered across specialties. By experiencing different clinic environments, working alongside a variety of team members, and interacting with patients, graduates leave the program with a broader understanding of healthcare and practical skills they can carry into their future careers.
Growing the Healthcare Workforce from Within
The MA Apprenticeship Program is one way DCMH is investing in the future of its workforce. As healthcare organizations face ongoing challenges recruiting and retaining qualified staff, developing talent through hands-on training creates another pathway for individuals to enter the field while helping build the workforce needed to serve the community.
Unlike a traditional classroom-only approach, DCMH’s apprenticeship combines paid employment with structured, on-the-job learning. Apprentices develop skills in the environment where they will use them, gaining experience from the people, processes, and patient interactions that make up everyday healthcare.
“Programs like this allow us to invest in people while building the workforce our organization needs for the future,” said Lisa Rouse, DCMH Human Resources Director. “By developing skills and experience within our own clinics, we’re creating opportunities for individuals to build meaningful careers while strengthening our ability to serve patients and the community for years to come.”
Behind every successful group of graduates is a team of people committed to teaching, encouraging, and supporting them along the way. Providers, medical assistants, practice managers, and staff throughout the organization all contribute to the learning experience.
“Each apprentice brought their own strengths and personality to the experience, and it has been special to see them learn from one another, connect with patients, and become more comfortable in their roles,” said Anne Swinney, DCMH Staff Development Coordinator. “We’re proud of what they’ve accomplished and excited to see where their careers take them.”
The graduation of this latest group, Brianna Fisher, Shelby Forkert, Brittany Hersley, Marklynn Keal, Christina Ruble, and Sara Senour, marks another milestone in DCMH’s ongoing commitment to growing healthcare careers and preparing the next generation of medical professionals. Through opportunities like the MA Apprenticeship Program, DCMH continues to create pathways for people to learn, grow, and build their future close to home.
To learn more about career opportunities at DCMH, visit dcmh.net/careers.
From L to R: Sara Senour, CCMA, Shelby Forkert, CCMA, Brianna Fisher, CCMA, Marklynn Keal, CCMA, Christina Ruble, CCMA, Brittany Hersley, CCMA, Anne Swinney, DCMH Staff Development Coordinator