Rochester Regional Health expanded its MedQuest summer program this year, giving Finger Lakes high school students hands-on exposure to health care careers at two community hospitals.
The workshop, previously held at Newark-Wayne Community Hospital, added programming at Clifton Springs Hospital and Clinic, according to the health system.
MedQuest is open to students entering grades nine through 12 who are interested in health care. Participants worked with health care professionals through demonstrations, workshops and other activities.
Students practiced basic suturing techniques and injections using oranges. They also explored physical therapy and wound care.
The program introduced students to careers in nursing, radiology, speech therapy, occupational therapy, respiratory therapy, nutrition services, medicine, surgery and infection prevention.
Mercy Flight Central staff also visited the camp to discuss emergency medical and first responder careers.
Dena Chapman, a nurse educator at Rochester Regional Health, said many students arrive with a general interest in health care but do not yet know how many career paths are available. She said the program is intended to give them new skills, a clearer view of the field and enthusiasm about future work.
Rochester Regional Health said the camps are also part of its effort to build a future workforce pipeline as health care providers face staffing shortages. The organization operates Newark-Wayne Community Hospital and Clifton Springs Hospital and Clinic as part of its regional system.
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