M.A.S.H. Camp is a special program for students interested in health care careers. It stands out among other initiatives, like the career day at MultiCare Valley Hospital for Spokane Valley students.
In rural areas like Spokane and Yakima, students may not always have easy access to explore different career paths. M.A.S.H. Camp helps bridge that gap by offering organized transportation and various opportunities for students from all backgrounds to apply.
Volunteers at M.A.S.H. Camp aim to change the idea that health care jobs are only for those wanting to work directly with patients or who need long years of schooling. “We want to show that there are other paths in health care,” says Van Deusen. “At MultiCare, we have training programs for nursing assistants, medical assistants, and pharmacy technicians.” Students can start at different levels and build their careers from there.
M.A.S.H. Camp students get to explore roles from patient care to support services, learning how every position matters in health care.
For instance, an 18-year-old graduate could join one of MultiCare’s training programs right away and begin their journey in health care. “There’s a misconception that health care has a strict hierarchy,” Thompkins shares. “In reality, every role plays an important part in our community’s health. We need everyone to achieve the best outcomes for our patients.”
Results speak for themselves: 89% of M.A.S.H. Camp graduates say the camp influenced their decision to pursue a career in health care. This program shows MultiCare’s commitment to supporting students and helping them design their futures.
