By Ryan ClarkCollege of Health Sciences When Emily Bryant set her sights on a healthcare career, she knew exactly where she wanted to work — close to home, serving the communities that raised her. Now a University of Kentucky College of Health Sciences (CHS) alumna, Bryant (Medical Laboratory S cience, ’25) has begun her career as a medical technologist at Pikeville Medical Center, where she is helping meet a critical need for laboratory professionals in rural Eastern Kentucky. A Prestonsburg native who grew up in Floyd County and now lives in Banner, Bryant recently passed her Board of Certification exam and started work at Pikeville Medical Center, one of two major hospitals serving the region. “Relocating after graduation was never a consideration for me,” Bryant said. “My professional motivation stems from an unwavering belief that the generous, inspiring and hardworking people of my hometown deserve nothing less than top-quality, accessible healthcare.” Bryant’s commitment to rural healthcare was recognized last summer when she was awarded the Dr. Alvin Ring Empowerment Scholarship for Laboratory Professionals from the American Society for Clinical Pathology. The national scholarship supports students who demonstrate a strong interest in serving rural and underserved communities. The scholarship provided financial support during Bryant’s final year at UK, helping cover tuition and living expenses while she completed unpaid clinical practicums. “Thanks to the support I received during my studies, I’ve been able to transition seamlessly into my role at Pikeville Medical Center,” Bryant said. “As a medical technologist, I can directly impact the diagnosis and treatment of eastern Kentuckians every day.” Bryant chose CHS and the University of Kentucky for its role as the state’s flagship institution and for the MLS program’s connection to the Center of Excellence in Rural Health in Hazard. The program’s combination of advanced laboratory training and personalized instruction prepared her for both certification and practice in a rural hospital setting. Medical laboratory scientists play a vital role in patient care, providing accurate and timely test results that guide diagnosis and treatment decisions. In rural areas, where access to healthcare services can be limited, that role is especially critical. “Each laboratory result I release can directly affect the care a patient receives,” Bryant said. “That responsibility drives me every day.” At Pikeville Medical Center, Bryant is now building a long-term career focused on serving Eastern Kentucky. As she gains experience, she hopes to mentor future laboratory professionals and help strengthen the region’s healthcare workforce. “I’m now in a position where I can build a career here, focusing on the science of patient care and serving the community that raised me,” she said. Bryant said UK’s Medical Laboratory Science program — and its location within commuting distance of her home — made her education achievable and reinforced her commitment to rural health. “I am sincerely thankful to all faculty and staff who have championed this program,” Bryant said. “They are supporting the future of rural healthcare.” Ryan Clark is the College of Health Sciences communications director. The post UK alumna filling healthcare need in rural Kentucky, hopes to inspire others to serve in rural areas appeared first on The Lexington Times. ...read more read less