Regional youth to experience rural healthcare careers

Rural Health Professions Action Plan

Taber health professionals are gearing up to inspire local high school students through an interactive Let’s Go Rural! High School Event to be held at the Taber Health Centre on February 11. By attending, students can explore various rural healthcare professions and learn about the educational pathways needed to pursue these careers. 

The event, organized by the Rural Health Professions Action Plan (RhPAP) in collaboration with local community members and local health professionals, encourages students to consider careers in rural healthcare. By showcasing the diversity of healthcare roles available in rural settings, the organizers hope to spark an interest in students who may one day fill essential healthcare positions in their communities. 

Throughout the day, students participate in hands-on skills stations and discussions led by local healthcare staff, including doctors, EMS, nurses, and physical therapists, among others. These interactive sessions will allow students to gain practical insights into common healthcare activities such as taking vital signs, performing basic medical procedures, and understanding the tools and techniques used in daily patient care. In addition to the skills stations, students engage in meaningful conversations with rural health professionals, learning firsthand about the benefits and challenges of practicing in a rural setting. These discussions will provide valuable perspectives on the importance of rural healthcare, the impact of close-knit community relationships, and the rewarding nature of serving in underserved areas. 

The Let’s Go Rural! High School Event is part of RhPAP’s ongoing efforts to promote rural healthcare careers and support the attraction and retention of healthcare professionals in rural Alberta. By fostering early interest and awareness in the next generation, RhPAP aims to keep healthcare close to home in rural and remote Alberta communities. 

The Let’s Go Rural! High School Event will have participating students from Taber Christian High School, W.R. Myers High School, Vauxhall High School, ACE Place, Lomond Community School, and Milk River Ridge School and takes place at the Taber Health Centre today from 8:45 – 3 p.m.

Skills stations will include Suturing, EMS, IV Starts and Injections, Physiotherapy, and Mechanical Lifts.