Students from across the region got a hands-on look at health care careers during Ozarks Healthcare’s 2026 M*A*S*H Camp in West Plains.
The Medical Academy of Science and Health Camp served 142 students in grades five through 12 this year, bringing together students from 27 schools for five days of activities and simulations. More than 31 health care professionals and volunteers from more than 15 departments helped with the camp.
M*A*S*H Camp is designed to introduce students to health care careers through hands-on experiences and interactions with local professionals. Students explored areas including anatomy and physiology, the operating room, orthopedics, anesthesiology, emergency medical services and air evacuation, obstetrics, nursing, respiratory therapy, pharmacy, radiology and imaging, and physical therapy.
“Investing in students is an investment in the future of health care and the future of our communities,” said Terence Farrell, Ozarks Healthcare president and CEO. “M*A*S*H Camp gives young people an opportunity to see firsthand the many career paths available in health care and to meet the people who make a difference in patients’ lives every day. We are proud to help students explore these opportunities and hope many of them will one day choose to build their careers and lives right here in our region.”
Following camp, 94% of students reported having more interest in health care careers. For many students, the camp offered a first look at career opportunities they may not have previously considered.
“I never knew so many careers existed in health care,” one camper said.
Another student said, “This camp showed me health care isn’t just a job, it’s a way to help others.”
“M*A*S*H Camp is about more than introducing students to health care careers — it’s about giving them experiences that can help shape their future,” said Josh Reeves, Ozarks Healthcare vice president of development and advocacy. “When students can step into different departments, participate in hands-on activities, ask questions and connect with health care professionals, they begin to see themselves in these roles. We’re grateful to everyone who gives their time and expertise to make these experiences possible.”
The Ozarks Healthcare Foundation supports M*A*S*H Camp and helps provide hands-on learning opportunities for students throughout the region. By supporting programs that expose young people to health care careers, the foundation helps create opportunities for students while strengthening the future health care workforce.
The camp also highlights the many pathways available to students interested in health care. By interacting directly with professionals and participating in simulations and activities, students saw how different roles work together to care for patients.
M*A*S*H Camp is part of Ozarks Healthcare’s efforts to support education, career development and local health care workforce pathways.
For more information about M*A*S*H Camp and career opportunities at Ozarks Healthcare, visit ozarkshealthcare.com.
