Beaufort, SC, August 30, 2025
News Summary
The Beaufort Memorial PATH program marked its 10th cohort graduation, honoring eight graduates as Certified Clinical Medical Assistants, Patient Care Technicians, and Coders. With 104 graduates since its inception, the program supports workforce development in healthcare, including scholarships and clinical training. Beaufort Memorial’s President emphasized investing in staff and community, reflecting the program’s commitment to enhancing healthcare skills and addressing local needs.
Beaufort, SC – Beaufort Memorial PATH Program Celebrates Graduates and Welcomes New Participants
The Beaufort Memorial PATH program, which stands for People Achieving Their Highest, celebrated its 10th cohort graduation on August 20. The event acknowledged the achievements of eight graduates who completed their training as Certified Clinical Medical Assistants, Certified Patient Care Technicians, and Certified Professional Coders.
This graduation ceremony featured a special pinning ceremony to honor the newly certified professionals in their respective fields. The program has been a crucial part of Beaufort Memorial Hospital’s commitment to workforce development and has now produced a total of 104 graduates since its inception in 2022.
At the event, 14 employees from Beaufort Memorial joined the 11th cohort of the PATH program, reflecting a growing interest in the opportunities it provides. Russell Baxley, President and CEO of Beaufort Memorial, characterized the PATH program as an important investment in both the hospital staff and the community. He underscored the vital role that healthcare professionals play in making the hospital a special place for patients.
All five graduates from the coding track achieved their certification on the first attempt, highlighting the program’s effectiveness. Kimberly Richbourg, who taught the coding course, received flowers and a plaque from her students as a token of appreciation for her support and instruction throughout their journey.
The newly certified graduates included not only Clinical Medical Assistants and Patient Care Technicians but also Certified Central Sterile Technicians and Certified Professional Coders. This diversity in training is a testament to the program’s comprehensive approach to workforce development.
Key Features of the PATH Program
- The PATH program provides scholarships and clinical training.
- It offers traditional education as well as non-traditional financial assistance.
- The program serves to aid employees in career advancement within the healthcare sector.
- It emphasizes the growth and development of current employees while contributing to the greater community.
Background of the PATH Program
Founded in 2022, the PATH program was developed to bridge the gap in workforce skills in Beaufort Memorial’s healthcare services. Its structure supports individuals looking to advance their careers while simultaneously addressing local healthcare needs. The accomplishments of the program reflect Beaufort Memorial’s dedication to not only enhancing the skills of its staff but also investing in the health of the community it serves.
As the PATH program continues to grow, interested individuals are encouraged to learn more about joining at BeaufortMemorial.org/PATH, contributing further to the pool of skilled healthcare professionals in the area.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the PATH program at Beaufort Memorial?
The PATH program, or People Achieving Their Highest, is a workforce development initiative that provides training, scholarships, and career advancement opportunities for employees in the healthcare field.
How many graduates have completed the PATH program?
As of now, the PATH program has produced a total of 104 graduates since it started in 2022 across various medical roles.
What types of certifications can one achieve through the PATH program?
Participants of the PATH program can become Certified Clinical Medical Assistants, Certified Patient Care Technicians, Certified Central Sterile Technicians, and Certified Professional Coders.
How can interested individuals join the PATH program?
Interested individuals can find more information about joining the PATH program by visiting BeaufortMemorial.org/PATH.
Chart: Key Features of the PATH Program
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Scholarships | Financial assistance for students to minimize their education costs. |
| Clinical Training | Hands-on training to prepare graduates for real-world healthcare environments. |
| Career Advancement | Opportunities for current employees to enhance their skills and advance their careers. |
| Diversity of Programs | Training available in various roles such as medical assistants, technicians, and coders. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Local Students Awarded Scholarships for Environmental Conservation
New Initiative Prepares Beaufort County Students for Health Care Careers
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Local Students Achieve Recognition in Education Programs
Local Students Accepted into Prestigious Summer Programs
Beaufort Nurses Recognized with 2025 Palmetto Gold Award
Additional Resources
- Bluffton Today: Beaufort Memorial PATH Program Celebrates Graduates
- Your Island News: BMHS PATH Program Recognizes First Cohort of Graduates
- WSAV: USCB Partners with Local Hospital to Expand Nursing Program
- Island Packet: Beaufort News
- Google Search: Beaufort Memorial PATH Program
Author: STAFF HERE BEAUFORT
The HERE Beaufort Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Beaufort community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background: Local Roots in Beaufort : Our team includes lifelong Beaufort residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent sale of the historic Crofts Block Building, Beaufort’s equestrian heritage, and growth in local tech and education sectors (e.g., BeaufortTechnical College programs). Collective Experience: With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Beaufort Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality: Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
