Colorado Students Gain Real-World Healthcare Experience

High school students in Colorado are receiving an early introduction to healthcare careers through a hands-on program. This initiative involves students from Bear Creek, Golden, and Wheat Ridge High Schools shadowing medical professionals at Lutheran Hospital. The program, a collaboration with Jeffco Public Schools, offers students a unique glimpse into various medical roles. Participants explored departments like the emergency room, pharmacy, and laboratory, gaining practical insights into daily healthcare operations. Students also benefited from vital training, including a "Stop the Bleed" session. Kenny Chiv, a CTE student, found the experience illuminating, appreciating the opportunity to understand the medical field's environment and the professionals' daily experiences. To date, 90 students have engaged with the program, with two already securing employment through this unique partnership. The core objective is to demonstrate that immediate entry into healthcare professions is possible, even before completing college.