It’s a unique learning opportunity cultivating interest in medical careers and creating pathways for youth to practice in rural settings.
Stratford General Hospital is the venue for Discovery Healthcare, a one-week medical science summer camp for high school students, organized by Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry at Western University.
Huron Perth Healthcare Alliance, a partner for the camp, said about 16 per cent of Canadians live in rural communities, however, only seven per cent of the country’s physicians practice in those areas.
The shortage of medical professionals is a concern in southwestern Ontario.
The camp, led by first and second year medical students, offers a learning opportunity and cultivates interest in careers with pathways created for youth to practice in rural settings.
It includes aspects of health care through interactive workshops, opportunities to job shadow and informative sessions with health-care professionals.
