McKenzie Health System Celebrates National Rural Health Day with Career Tours for Sanilac County Students

In celebration of National Rural Health Day on November 21, 2024, McKenzie Health System hosted healthcare career tours for high school students from across Sanilac County. The tours gave over 200 students from Brown City, Carsonville-Port Sanilac, Croswell-Lexington, Marlette, Peck, and Sandusky schools a behind-the-scenes look at healthcare careers.

Students in 10th and 11th grades explored a wide variety of careers, including Diagnostic Imaging, Emergency Services, Health Information Management, Laboratory Services, Leadership, Nursing, and Social Work. They had the chance to interact with healthcare professionals, ask questions, and learn about what it’s like to work in different healthcare fields.

“Hosting these tours is a great way to help students see all the possibilities in healthcare,” said Steve Barnett, President & CEO of McKenzie Health System. “We want to inspire young people to pursue impactful careers, especially in rural areas like ours. It’s important for them to know they can have a fulfilling career right here in their community.”

The Importance of Rural Healthcare

Rural hospitals like McKenzie Health System are vital to the health of small communities. National Rural Health Day, celebrated each year, highlights the challenges faced by rural healthcare providers. They have fewer doctors, longer travel distances for patients, and limited resources. Despite these challenges, rural hospitals provide critical services and care for millions of Americans.

McKenzie Health System commits to providing quality care for Sanilac County. We have expanded services, invested in new technology, and helped develop the next generation of healthcare workers. The career tours are one way McKenzie is reaching out to students and encouraging them to consider a future in healthcare.

Building the Future of Healthcare

McKenzie Health System dedicates itself to creating a strong healthcare system for the future. These tours show students that healthcare careers are rewarding and vital to the community's well-being. During the tour, students saw the latest technology in use and learned how healthcare professionals work together to provide excellent care.

“Our goal is to make sure we have the skilled workers we need to provide the best possible care,” said Barnett. “We want to inspire students to see that a career in healthcare can offer not only personal satisfaction but also a chance to serve their community.”

McKenzie Health System commits to growing the healthcare workforce and preparing for the future. By investing in people and technology, McKenzie is helping to ensure that Sanilac County will have high-quality healthcare for years to come.

For more information about McKenzie Health System and its services, visit www.mckenziehealth.org.