The University of Toledo will welcome more than two dozen area high school students to Health Science Campus later this week for an annual camp that provides them a chance to experience some of what it’s like to be a practicing physician.
CampMed, now in its 26th year, is geared toward students who excel in science and mathematics and may be considering a future career in medicine, medical research, pharmacy and related fields.
Medical student Jack Altman demonstrates how to use a stethoscope during last year’s CampMed program at UToledo. The camp, now in its 26th year, gives students entering 9th grade a behind-the-scenes look at careers in medicine.
This year’s camp will take place Thursday, June 5, and Friday, June 6.
Under the guidance of UToledo faculty members, UToledo Health clinicians and current medical students, campers will receive a behind-the-scenes tour of the University’s high-tech medical education facilities and clinical spaces including the University of Toledo Medical Center emergency department.
They also will learn more about the tools healthcare providers rely on, try their hand at clinical skills like suturing, learn proper CPR technique and conduct mock interviews with individuals playing the role of patients.
“CampMed is all about fostering an interest in medical education and medical careers in a way that’s fun and engaging for our campers,” said Courtney K. Combs, director of the UToledo and Ohio Area Health Education Center programs. “There are so many opportunities in the medical field. We want to help campers see themselves in those roles and get them thinking about the educational pathways available for them to pursue their dreams.”
Students apply for the program during their 8th grade year and attend the summer before they begin their freshman year of high school. The Area Health Education Centers Program covers the cost of the program, which includes meals and overnight accommodations, for students who are selected to participate.
This year 26 students will participate, representing 12 high schools from across northwest Ohio.
Over the last two and a half decades, many of CampMed’s participants have been from rural areas or are potential first-generation college students.
“A number of our alumni have gone on to pursue medicine, nursing or other health sciences, including some who returned to do those studies here at UToledo,” Combs said. “This really has been an educational launchpad for many of our students.”
CampMed is organized by the UToledo College of Medicine and Life Sciences and the UToledo Ohio Area Health Education Center program, which works to improve the well-being of individuals and communities by recruiting, training, and retaining healthcare professionals in underserved communities.
