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What courses and activities can students engage in when attending High School that will help prepare them for the medical / health care field?

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JOHN’s Answer

Hello:

CPR. That I would specify for everyone to present to beneficially welcome within their pathways of helping hand lifestyles. Volunteerism can beautify the education experience and observational knowledge you can embrace within that. Hospice care, hospitals, any type of medical scenario and/or red cross volunteering can help to educate through on-the-job type situations in the field.

Grateful for your pathways.

God Bless,

John German
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Davina’s Answer

Any science courses: biology, anatomy and physiology, chemistry, physics.

Any math courses. College prep math courses would be very helpful even if you don't end up going into nursing or become a doctor

If you can speak a foreign language, that is a huge plus in the medical field.
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Jennifer’s Answer

I fully agree with other answers. In addition, some high schools have phlebotomy certifications. It's a big bonus to understand this and what types of tests can be drawn and how lab specimens should be treated and processed for the best results. Many healthcare professionals claim lab error for many mistakes that could be prevented if lab specimens were properly drawn by lab professionals instead of providers.
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Megan’s Answer

I agree with the others! Science is #1. Math is a must. Going through stna classes and cpr look good great on a resume or application to college in any part of the medical field as well. Volunteer work also looks good on any college or job application.
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Danielle’s Answer

Volunteer with a hospital, such as helping feed patients or handing out reading materials. If those opportunities aren't available, anything that shows leadership skills, such as being a president or treasurer of an after school club.
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Jestina’s Answer

Definitely take anatomy. And learn it well.
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Jennifer’s Answer

EDUCATION: All the sciences, foreign language (most likely Spanish if living in US), ethics, leadership, dual enrollment classes that chip away at gen education classes.

LEADERSHIP: In and outside of school seek out leadership and mentoring positions, don't be afraid to get outside your comfort zone.

VOLUNTEER: Outside of school is just as important - VOLUNTEER, not because you have to for school or club credit, find something you like and volunteer 2 hours a week. This adds up to over 100 hours a year. Don't spread yourself thin and think you have to do lots of stuff. Find a couple of things and commit to them. If you like kids, volunteer at library during kids' hour. If you want to get experience with people and exposure to health-related stuff volunteer with the Red Cross for a blood drive or a wellness clinic. If you like animals, volunteer at vet, kennel or animal shelter (under 18 may need have parent with you). If you love seniors, volunteer at a senior center or nursing home.

Scholarship/schools/employers and other organizations take ALL of these factors into consideration. WE REALLY DO!!!!
Commitment, compassion, attention to details and integrity are important.
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Shannon’s Answer

See if there are any local physicians who need some office work done. This is a good way to learn, get your foot in the door, and also get a good reference base started. The doc can write a letter for college admissions, or what have you. Even if you are filing, or answering phones, the environment and professional relationships you will develop will help you acclimate to the environment, learn the terminologies, pace, specialties, how referrals work, insurance, requirements for licensure, a whole slew of things. It will give you a huge bump in understanding and experience overall.
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Shannon’s Answer

I would like to provide a more comprehensive list of subjects and activities that are essential for aspiring medical students:

1. Anatomy: Studying the structure of the human body, its organs, and systems is crucial for understanding how they function and interact.

2. Anatomy and Physiology (A/P): This subject combines the study of anatomy with the understanding of how these various body parts work together to maintain life and homeostasis.

3. Chemistry: Gaining knowledge about the composition, structure, properties, and reactions of substances is essential for understanding the biochemical processes that occur within the human body.

4. Biology: In addition to studying the basics of life, biology also covers cell structure and function, genetics, and evolution, offering insights into the workings of the human body on a molecular level.

5. Science: A strong foundation in various scientific principles will help you understand the medical concepts more easily.

6. Mathematics: Mathematical skills can be beneficial in calculating dosages, understanding statistics in medical studies, and interpreting data.

7. Dissections: Gaining hands-on experience with dissections, including not just worms and frogs but also more complex organisms, will enhance your understanding of anatomy and physiology.

8. Psychology: Taking psychology classes will help you better understand your patients and their needs as you will encounter individuals dealing with various illnesses and stress factors while doing clinical work.

9. Certifications: Acquiring certifications in CPR/AED/First Aid/BLS is essential for all healthcare practitioners as these basic life-saving skills are often required.

10. Language Skills: Improving your Spanish and taking Latin classes will help you better understand medical terminology, which often has Latin roots. This knowledge will be particularly useful when reading and writing prescriptions and understanding abbreviations. For example, P.O. stands for Per Os. The translation, from Latin, means "by mouth" aka taken orally.

11. English Proficiency: Ensuring that your English language skills are top-notch is important for effective communication with patients, colleagues, and other healthcare professionals. Polished and professional writing, particularly when creating clinical notes, referral letters, and other documents, is essential. Always remember to proofread to avoid errors and maintain high standards.

By focusing on these subjects and activities, you will be well-prepared for a successful career in the medical field.
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Mary Carol’s Answer

Absolutely agree with all of the science classes, but I also recommend some business classes, as healthcare today also has a significant business aspect to it.
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James’s Answer

Math, science and health related courses are certainly helpful. Learning another language can be beneficial as well. CPR and first aid training could be obtained relatively easily as well.

I think volunteering at a hospital or clinic or completing job shadowing opportunities in a variety of settings is helpful. Many larger health systems might have internships or other volunteer/unpaid opportunities that could give more ideas of future prospects. The more variety of professions and settings you see the better!
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