Essentia Health Launches Health Sciences Program for Students

In Hunter, North Dakota, Essentia Health has partnered with Northern Cass High School to establish a new health sciences classroom, providing students with an opportunity to explore various health careers before graduation. This initiative allows approximately 62 students to engage in courses covering essential topics such as nursing fundamentals, preventative care, and pharmacy technician skills.

The classroom incorporates practical learning through the use of dummy patients, affectionately named Bobby Jo and Billy Jo. By participating in this program, students can achieve certification as nurse aides upon successful completion of the required coursework.

Terry Baesler, the Superintendent of Northern Cass, emphasized the importance of exposing students to a broad range of career paths within the healthcare industry. “They think, health care, OK, I got to be a nurse, I got to be a doctor … they don’t get the whole ‘Here’s what else you can do,'” Baesler stated. He highlighted the variety of roles available in health care beyond traditional positions, including technical and human resources jobs.

The development of this health sciences classroom reflects a growing trend towards integrating practical health education in high school curricula. By providing early exposure to the healthcare field, students gain valuable insights and skills that can significantly enhance their employability and readiness for post-secondary education.

The collaboration between Essentia Health and Northern Cass High School not only prepares students for potential careers in health but also addresses a critical workforce need in the region. As the demand for healthcare professionals continues to rise, initiatives like this are essential in nurturing the next generation of health workers.

This program is part of a broader effort to ensure that students are well-informed about their options and can make educated decisions regarding their future careers. By introducing them to the diverse opportunities within health sciences, educators hope to inspire more students to pursue paths that align with their interests and skills.