WHITTIER – Rio Hondo College is offering a rare chance this August for newly minted nurses to take a specialized course that will prepare them to meet the rising demand for ambulatory patient care.

The advanced training course – rarely offered by Rio Hondo or surrounding nursing programs – is limited to 15 students who must register by Aug. 17. The course is a 16-week online program; applicants must hold active RN licenses.

Ambulatory care is an outpatient service provided to patients who are recovering from treatment, often at home. Demand for nurses skilled in tending ambulatory patients is expected to rise significantly as medical services expand under the Affordable Care Act.

“Rio Hondo College’s commitment to preparing students for their careers doesn’t stop with our degree programs,” said Superintendent/President Teresa Dreyfuss. “Our advanced training for nurses who have graduated with their associate degrees is a great example of how we continue to provide students with the skills that will make them supremely marketable in the workplace.”

The class is a 4.5-unit course, placing its total cost at less than $225. Instruction begins Aug. 22.

“Our dedicated team of administrators and faculty are always seeking out new ways to help our students succeed,” Rio Hondo College Board of Trustees President Madeline Shapiro said. “This program demonstrates their deep commitment to our students.”

For more information about the class, or to apply, go to www.riohondo.edu or call Carolyn Gonzalez at (562) 463-3227.