Students from Big Isle receive practical training at the University of Hawaii's medical school.
In mid-July, three Big Island high school students embarked on a unique educational journey, as recipients of the Neighbor Island Medical Scholars Program scholarship. Hanalei Rapu from Waiakea High School, Colten Clarke from Kealakehe High School, and James Lowson IV from Hawaii Technology Academy were among the fortunate students who participated in a weeklong educational experience at JABSOM on Oahu.
The program, a collaboration between Kaiser Permanente Hawaii and the University of Hawaii at Manoa's John A. Burns School of Medicine (JABSOM), is designed to provide a hands-on look at health care practice. This marks the first year that Kaiser Permanente has partnered with JABSOM for this educational experience.
Seven additional students from Hawaii Island also attended the weeklong educational experience at JABSOM. Among them were Yireh Kim and Hi'ilei Bunghanoy-Aiu from Kealakehe High School, Wehiwa'alani Gapero, Jillian Lum, and 'Auli'i Paleka from Kamehameha Schools Hawaii, Helly Hughes from Hawaii Preparatory Academy, and Chavanne Wessel from Parker School.
The Medical and Diagnosis Treatment Program (MDT) aims to inspire students into careers in medicine and nurture their growth and commitment to health care careers. The program covers travel and accommodations expenses for selected students, offering them an immersive experience in the healthcare field.
During their time at JABSOM, the students attended lectures and workshops, gaining valuable insights into the day-to-day workings of a healthcare practice. They also had the opportunity to apply what they learned at MDT in a real clinical setting, working alongside physicians from Kaiser Permanente.
Colten Clarke expressed his enthusiasm about getting hands-on experience during the program, stating, "I've always been interested in medicine, and this program has given me a chance to see what it's really like to work in a healthcare setting."
Dr. Jill Omori, director of the Office of Medical Education at JABSOM, expressed that having the students on campus was rewarding. "It's always inspiring to see young minds eager to learn about healthcare and potentially pursue careers in this field," she said.
The program is part of an effort to tackle the state's ongoing physician shortage, providing an opportunity for students to explore careers in medicine and potentially contribute to the healthcare workforce in the future. As the third year that JABSOM has hosted a weeklong educational experience for students, it is clear that the program is making a positive impact on the lives of young aspiring healthcare professionals.
