Red Cross kicks off Dental Assistant Training program at DGMC

  • Published
  • By American Red Cross -DGMC station
  • 60th Medical Group
TRAVIS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. --  The American Red Cross Dental Assistant Training program, began in June 2006 at the David Grant USAF Medical Center's Arthur J. Satchel Dental Clinic, is a portable training and development career opportunity for military members and their families.

"This training has been a great experience for me because in a short period of time, I have learned the basic skills that will help in the future," says Irene Ching, Dental Assistant Training student. "I enjoy working here at the dental clinic because the staff has been very helpful, and also because I enjoy taking care of my patients. It's a great opportunity."

"It's a 'Win-Win' for everyone, as our dental clinic staff gain extra pairs of skilled and compassionate hands to help," explained Dr. (Col.) Barbara King, 60th Dental Squadron commander.

The program consists of 800 hours of classroom and clinical experience. Hours are scheduled from 6:45 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday. Participants must also complete a CPR/First Aid course and have current immunizations. Reimbursement for childcare and transportation is unavailable.

"We understand this is a significant commitment, but also know DGMC's Dental Clinic provides quality training," said Joan Kelley-Williams, station manager for the American Red Cross at DGMC. "You will leave the program with marketable skills."

The next round of selections are scheduled to begin soon. Sign-ups and application forms are now available. To be eligible for the program, you must be 18 years or older and a military-sponsored ID card holder.

Applications can be picked up at the American Red Cross office, located on the second floor of DGMC near Diagnostic Imaging and the DGMC Chapel. Applications must be completed and returned March 21 at 4 p.m. Applicants will be interviewed and notified of their selection status by March 28 and begin the program the first week of April.

For questions or concerns regarding the Dental Assistant Training program, contact the American Red Cross office at 423-3648.