TUCSON, Ariz. – Banner – University Medical Center Tucson played host to its 18th annual Camp Scrubs, a hands-on program designed to inspire students to pursue careers in healthcare.
For a week, campers shadowed members of various healthcare teams. They met patients, participated in mock scenarios and explored different aspects of the hospital environment.
“The need for people to choose healthcare as a career path continues to grow, so we hope we can inspire these kids with our passion for what we do,” said Mellissa Davis, an RN who has led the program since 2017.
Healthcare workers provide care in schools, clinics, homes, helicopters and disaster zones. They’re in high demand across the country, and their work makes a real difference in people’s lives.
“This program gives kids a chance to experience what it's like to work in a hospital, spend time with nurses, physicians, and other professionals who talk to them about what they do and show them through hands on-activities,” said Davis.
The program included 27 campers, a mix of middle school students and junior counselors - high school students - from across Tucson.
Thanks to the generous donations to the Banner Health Foundation from Banner – University Medicine Tucson’s senior leadership team, 10 students received full scholarships to the camp. This was the first year that scholarships were made available to eligible campers, ensuring access to all community members.
By the end of the week, campers walked away understanding how healthcare teams work together to save lives.
“Middle school is a wonderful time to start connecting with students about their future because they are engaged with learning,” said Davis. “I am always impressed with their questions and their excitement.
Camp Scrubs 1: Dr. Andy Tang presents a mock trauma scenario to camp participants.
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