St. Elizabeth Healthcare is launching a new program aimed at exposing high school students to the work life of a physician, including observation at their practice office and in an operating room.
The first session of the Medical Observation Opportunity Network (M.O.O.N.) Program is June 27-29. The deadline to apply is April 15.
Participation is limited. The program is free. Students must be at least 16 years old, have access to transportation during program hours (8 a.m. to 4 p.m.) and have filled out an application signed by a parent or guardian.
“This is an opportunity I have wanted to provide for the past decade,” said Dr. M. Ryan Moon, a general surgeon at St. Elizabeth who founded the program. “I want to help young people develop and explore their passions. I am a big believer in the value of passion. If you love what you do, then you will be a better friend, co-worker, sibling, parent and spouse. If this program affects one person, it will mean everything.”
The program includes:
• Hospital tour
• Shadowing physicians
• Skills lab
• Panel discussion
• Graduation
It is a collaborative effort between St. Elizabeth’s medical, surgery and nursing staffs, volunteer services, human resources, marketing, medical affairs and perioperative management.
“So many people have worked hard to make this happen,” Moon said. “They are committed to the youth of this community and helping students envision what is possible.”
Multiple sessions will be offered throughout the year. Visit www.stelizabeth.com/moonprogram
for application information and deadlines.