EMT Class Falls Through For Celina, Hope Of Phlebotomy Class To Start

While a deal for a potential EMT Class at the former Cumberland River Hospital is off the table for now, a plan now being crafted for a Phlebotomy class through Vol State.

Celina officials originally said they would pay $15,000 for three classes with their primary goal of getting an EMT class. Celina Mayor Luke Collins told the Board of Aldermen the new Phlebotomy course would cost the city $4,000.

“If we could get our foot in the door then maybe next semester they would be able to offer the EMT classes, which, of course, is our goal,” Collins said. “That’s where the real shortage is. That’s where the real need is.”

Collins said the class will likely be held at the old Celina High School.

“I don’t think we should fund any classes outside of the city of Celina,” Collins said. “That’s just my opinion, and I’m pro education. I’m very pro education. It’s in the city limits. The old Celina High School is what they are talking about. Now would I prefer it to be EMT, absolutely.”

Collins said he has made it clear to Vol State that the goal of the deal is to eventually bring an EMT class to the city. He said he did not want to fund courses held on existing campuses and send students there.

“Our priority is the EMT class,” Collins said. “There’s never been a question about that. They know we’re pro education, but we still have to answer to the tax payers and the city of Celina.”

Collins said he wanted to get the Aldermen’s opinion before making a decision. The Aldermen told Collins to make what he thought was the best decision.

“You have got the right as the mayor, and I’m saying you got the right,” Alderman Winton Dillon said. “You heard what I say. You can make the decision. I’m good with it.”

Phlebotomy is the act of removing blood from a patient using a needle.