More than two dozen health care students in a variety of fields were hosted by Blanche River Health last year, supporting the health care workers of tomorrow, while showcasing Blanche River Health as an employer of choice. 

“Learners who come to Blanche River Health experience rural health care first hand,” said Jorge VanSlyke, President and CEO, Blanche River Health. “They learn about our communities and the programs that are available in Northern Ontario, and we hope their experience with us entices them to stay and start their careers here.”

Last year, 30 students representing a variety of fields including medicine, nursing, physiotherapy, and pharmacy joined Blanche River Health, working in partnership with Cambrian College, Laurentian University, Canadore College, Nippissing University, Algonquin College and Queen’s University.

The hospital is also affiliated with the Northern Ontario School of Medicine and the University of Toronto, offering experiences for future physicians throughout various departments of the hospital such as the emergency department, intensive care unit, inpatient units and surgical unit. The Family Health Team also hosts the learners for clinic based practice opportunities.

 “We plan to expand our student program through summer student job opportunities and co-op placements,” added Van Slyke. “Planning for the future during a shortage of health professionals means fostering relationships with students and providing enriching work experiences to attract graduates back.”

To learn more about opportunities for students, please call Jessica Parkman at (866) 274-7774 Ext 3204, or send an email to jessica.parkman@blancheriverhealth.ca. Medical students, residents or physicians interested in learning more can call Jennifer Forrest at (866) 274-7774 Ext 2137 or email Jennifer.forrest@blancheriverhealth.ca. Or visit the hospital’s careers page at www.blancheriverhealth.ca .

Blanche River Health is a 74-bed hospital corporation with two sites serving the North Eastern Ontario communities of Englehart (26 beds) and Kirkland Lake (48 beds) as well as residents in surrounding areas.

Photo caption: Left to right: Stefanie Nolet, second year medical student at the Northern Ontario School of Medicine, Dr. Grace Zheng, second year post-grad Resident from University of Toronto, Camille Riopelle, second year medical student at Northern Ontario School of Medicine and Dr. Amy Pawson, Educational Lead, Blanche River Health.