OGHS Offers “Medical Explorer Program”
In an effort to educate high school students on healthcare careers, Opelousas General Health System recently initiated the “Medical Explorer Program”. This program allows students to visit various departments within the hospital to observe employees on the job. Louisiana along with the rest of the nation, is facing a shortage of healthcare workers. “By providing a venue for students to explore healthcare careers, we may develop more interests among our youth in clinical areas”, said Gerald Fornoff, CEO, OGHS. “This high school experience just may be the deciding factor in choosing a healthcare field when entering college or a technical school,” he added. “Our objective is to attract the young adults of St. Landry Parish, the market we serve. They deserve to find employment in the region where they grew up”, added Wayne Gilmore, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of OGHS.
Exploring is Learning for Life’s career-education worksite-based program that gives youth an opportunity to visit community organizations and explore the dynamics of various careers. The purpose is to help youth to develop and grow through activities that provide real life experiences in their field of interest. Exploring programs are based on five areas of emphasis: Career Opportunities, Life Skills, Service Learning, Character and Leadership Experience.
Exploring is a catalyst. It brings together adults and young people. The Medical Explorer Post 139 is lead by five officers who are elected among themselves and a group of Managers at OGHS, who serve as Post Committee Advisors.
Students enrolled in any public or private school in St. Landry Parish are eligible for this program. It is a one-year commitment. Students must be in the 11th or 12th grade.
For more information on the “Medical Explorer Program”, please call Jeanine Lavergne, Human Resources Assistant Director at 948-5104.
Pictured from left are: Hailey Jo Laverne a Junior at Opelousas Catholic High School and Lexi Soileau who is a Senior
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