Simulation program lets students explore health care careers

Kaiser Permanente in Antelope Valley collaborated with Eastside High School’s Biomedical Science Academy and Antelope Valley College to offer a health care simulation lab summer program. Twenty-three students successfully finished the program, which allowed them to directly experience health care professions through practical simulations and guidance from experienced physicians, nurses, and staff. Watch the video with highlights from the program.

“As a physician volunteer, I am thrilled to welcome bright, young minds to this innovative health care simulation lab summer program each year. This immersive experience is designed to ignite a passion for medicine in these students, enhance their critical thinking skills, and provide a hands-on introduction to the world of health care,” said Manish Desai, MD, an endocrinologist at Kaiser Permanente Antelope Valley Medical Offices.

Students thrive in realistic medical scenarios

Throughout 5 sessions, each lasting 3 hours, students explore various roles within the health care field, encompassing areas like nursing, radiology, and pharmacy. They engage in realistic scenarios using a high-fidelity mannequin, Sim Anne. Students participated in simulations ranging from emergency care at a motor vehicle accident scene to intensive care unit procedures and advanced cardiac life support.

“The most exciting thing I've learned is working with mannequins,” said Jessica Mejia, a 12th grade student at Eastside High School. “I learned to put an NG (nasogastric) tube within a patient or mannequin. I also learned how different things work — like blood transfusions, how to assess different issues with a patient, and how you can potentially save a life."

“I enjoy observing the engagement and participation of these students in realistic medical emergency scenarios,” said Thinzar A. Htut, MD, a geriatrician at Kaiser Permanente Antelope Valley Medical Offices. “I love how they work together as a team to help save a person's life. These participating students will gain invaluable insights and skills that will serve as a strong foundation, should they decide to pursue a medical career."

Exploring health care careers

The program encourages underrepresented and economically disadvantaged students to consider health care careers.

"I want to be a cardiothoracic surgeon,” said Katherine Galindo, another program participant. “This program was insightful. I saw how the health care community works together as the registered nurses work with the doctors. They all work together to get things accomplished."

Kaiser Permanente physicians and staff volunteered to mentor students, and Antelope Valley College provided the space and faculty for simulations. Students concluded the program with a careers research project and presentation, gaining valuable insights and skills for potential future careers in health care.

One of many career development and pipeline programs

In addition to offering a view into health care careers, the health care simulation lab program helps Kaiser Permanente build a more inclusive environment and a vigorous pipeline of physicians and employees who represent the diversity of our membership and communities. It’s one of many workforce development programs that Kaiser Permanente offers to youth and our underserved communities.

Check out these additional career pathways:

• Hippocrates Circle for middle school students
• INROADS college internships
• Kaiser Permanente Bernard J. Tyson School of Medicine
• Residency and fellowship opportunities
• Summer Youth Employment Program