This fall, students have a new opportunity for training that hasn’t been available in Saskatchewan before. Students who want to train to provide ultrasound services will have that opportunity at Suncrest College in Yorkton.  The President and CEO of Suncrest, Alison Dubreuil, says applications are being accepted through May 15th for six spots in their Diagnostic Medical Sonography Advanced Diploma program.  She states that when students learn locally, there is higher aptitude upon graduation to secure employment in Saskatchewan.

Ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves to aid in medical diagnoses. The program will be offered in partnership with Manitoba’s Red River College Polytechnic, which will provide program support and instruction delivered by faculty.  Clinical placements will be provided in hospitals across the province through the Saskatchewan Health Authority.

The Ministry of Advanced Education says the sonography program is expected to cost approximately $340,000 in the first year, which is funded by the Ministry of Immigration and Career Training.  Suncrest College will support the program startup in partnership with the Health Foundation of East Central Saskatchewan, which has offered to raise $300,000 for equipment. Other community donors are contributing $100,000 for capital expenses. Future provincial funding will be determined through the annual budget process.