UNK Launches Program To Bring Primary Care To Rural Areas

KEARNEY- The University of Nebraska at Kearney has launched a new program to help bring primary care professionals to rural parts of the state.

The new Health Science Explorers Academy, launched earlier this year, aims to expand the state’s health care workforce by exposing high schoolers to educational and career opportunities in the field. Open to juniors and seniors, the Health Science Explorers Academy includes a mix of hands-on activities, simulations, guest speakers, field trips and advanced education from UNK and University of Nebraska Medical Center faculty. Participants meet once a month from September through May and spend a full day on the UNK campus while learning about health sciences and various career paths. Students who complete the Health Science Explorers Academy earn a $400 room and board scholarship at UNK.

A total of nine students are part of the inaugural academy class including Autum Hewitt and Lillyauna Longoria-Hanson of Central City, and Ellie Frederick of Shelby-Rising City.