NORWICH – Junior high school students from all over the area wrap up a two-day, hands-on learning experience in the medical field today as the annual Medical Academy of Science and Health Camp comes to a close at the United Health Services Chenango Memorial Hospital.

Since 2002, the annual MASH Camp has provided Chenango County students entering eighth and ninth grade a fun opportunity to explore career options in the health field. Spurred by a projected shortage of professionals in the field – state and nationwide – the program is sponsored by the Central New York Area Health Education Center and Excellus Blue Cross Blue Shield as a way to develop strong, skilled medical and health professionals.

Students spend two full days at the hospital, touring the facility and learning directly from health professionals about the employment opportunities available and the everyday tasks of different health professions. Yesterday, students learned about pathology, ultrasound, cardiology and pharmacy, among other professions. Today’s itinerary includes visits to the UHS dentist office, dietary department, maternity ward, and operating room.

“Each year, we are happy to host this interactive program,” said UHS Chenango Memorial MASH Camp Coordinator Becky Yacano. “It is exciting to see how involved the campers become over the two days, and our staff loves showing them what it’s really like to work in a hospital and letting them know about the variety of careers available in healthcare.”