Aspiring health professionals have an opportunity to gain valuable firsthand experience through MultiCare’s partnership with COPE Health Scholars. This immersive educational program is available at Deaconess Hospital and Valley Hospital in Spokane and Allenmore Hospital and Tacoma General Hospital in Tacoma. The program is designed to give participants hands-on exposure in both clinical and administrative health care settings.
MultiCare offers two programs: the Health Scholars Program, tailored for students enrolled in or graduated from local two- or four-year colleges, and the Junior Health Scholars Program, aimed at high school students aged 16-18. Participants in both programs become integral members of the care delivery team, assisting nurses, physicians and other staff with patient care and support initiatives focused on enhancing the patient experience.
The Health Scholars Program requires a commitment of one four-hour shift per week, with participants rotating through different departments every quarter. Completion of 280 hours leads to a certificate from Keck Graduate Institute. The Junior Health Scholars Program follows a similar structure, with students shadowing current Health Scholars.
Applications are accepted year-round, with multiple enrollment periods throughout the year. Prospective scholars must complete an online application, virtual interview, training and exams before starting the program. For more information, visit the COPE Health Scholars website or contact MultiCarePrograms@copehealthscholars.org.
This program provides a unique opportunity for students to explore health care careers while contributing to patient care. (Tim Pfarr)
