South Dakota Department of Health Invites High School and Middle School Students to Explore Healthcare Careers through Scrubs Camps

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Oct. 6, 2025MEDIA CONTACT: Tia Kafka, [email protected]

South Dakota Department of Health Invites High School and Middle School Students to Explore Healthcare Careers through Scrubs Camps

PIERRE, S.D. - The South Dakota Department of Health (DOH) is excited to announce the return of Scrubs Camps and Camp Meds for the 2025-2026 school year.

"Scrubs Camps and Camp Meds provide high school and middle school students across the state with hands-on experiences and insights into a variety of healthcare careers, allowing them to explore future professions in medicine, nursing, emergency services, and more," said Department of Health Secretary Melissa Magstadt. "We're proud to support the next generation of healthcare workers and help them see the possibilities available in the healthcare industry."

The camps are designed for students in grades 6 - 8 (Camp Meds) and 9 - 12 (Scrubs Camp) who have an interest in pursuing a career in the healthcare field. Through interactive activities, students work alongside healthcare professionals and gain exposure to real-world scenarios. By participating in these camps, students can build a foundation for understanding the education and skills necessary to enter the healthcare workforce.

Each camp is held in a different location throughout the state, ensuring that students from all regions of South Dakota have the opportunity to participate. The DOH partners with schools, healthcare providers, and community organizations to offer this program free of charge to students. Dates and locations of scheduled camps can be found on the Scrubs Camp website.

The DOH provides a variety of resources to help students, educators, and healthcare providers get the most out of Scrubs Camps. This includes activity toolkits, promotional materials, and detailed camp guides. These resources are designed to enhance the Scrubs Camp experience and help students better understand the healthcare landscape in South Dakota.

"As the demand for healthcare professionals continues to grow, Scrubs Camps and Camp Meds serve as a great tool in addressing workforce shortages by encouraging students to pursue careers in healthcare. Students gain hands-on experience in a variety of fields, including nursing, radiology, therapy services, and other vital healthcare professions. These are truly fantastic events, held locally, to support our youth and their potential future in the healthcare workforce," concluded Magstadt.

To learn more about Scrubs Camps and Camp Meds or to register for an upcoming event, visit the DOH website.

At the heart of the Department of Health's mission is a simple goal: to protect and improve the health of all South Dakotans. The department is entrusted with the vital task of promoting wellness, preventing disease, and ensuring access to quality healthcare for all South Dakotans.

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