Forty-two high school students from 13 northeastern communities are getting hands-on medical training at NOSM University's CampMed in Sudbury, as the program celebrates its 20th anniversary of shaping northern Ontario health care.
Hands-on medical experience for students
The week-long camp, which runs from July 9 to 15, gives students entering grades 11 and 12 the opportunity to explore careers in health care through workshops, simulations, and mentorship from NOSM University faculty and health professionals.
Participants are from communities including Timmins, North Bay, Sault Ste. Marie, and smaller towns across the region. They engage in activities such as suturing, casting, and taking vital signs, as well as learning about medical school admissions.
Addressing health care shortages in the North
According to Dr. Sarita Verma, president and vice-chancellor of NOSM University, the camp is a key part of the university's mission to train physicians and health professionals who will practice in northern Ontario. “CampMed plants the seed for students to consider a career in health care and return to their communities to serve,” she said.
The program has seen over 800 students since its inception, with many alumni going on to attend NOSM University and work in the North. This year's camp includes new components on Indigenous health and virtual care.
