The Parliamentary Secretariat for Health recognises the commitment of MCAST in providing high quality vocational education to ensure that more students opt for a career in the health sector. As part of the commitment of the government to strengthen the human resource in the health sector, a number of students who have successfully completed their studies at MCAST, and graduated from the Paramedic Aides course, were recruited as Cardiographers, in the Cardiology Department at Mater Dei. Together with other professionals, these will enhance the services offered to the patients. 

In the coming months, these students will be provided with the opportunity to continue to specialise in their field, thanks to a five month course being held with the participation of lecturers from Hospitals in the UK. Through this initiative, these ECG technicians will be able to conduct specialised cardiac services such as Exercise Stress Tests, Echocardiograms u Pacemaker programming. This initiative is part of the government’s commitment in providing a better and timely service to the patient.

The next intake for the Paramedic Aides course will be held in September 2014 with applications opening in July 2014.  The course leading to the role of Paramedic Aides at MCAST is a full-time two-year intensive programme in health sciences (titled ‘Extended Diploma in Health Studies’), set at MQF Level 4. Many of the students following this programme carry out one to two years of prior education and skilling at MQF Levels 2 and 3. The Level 4 programme includes a large component of practical work training in a health setting, mainly at Mater Dei Hospital. This gives students not only the academic knowledge but also the practical skills required to work in the health sector.