Patient Care: Healthcare Careers Pathway

The SMUHSD Patient Care: Healthcare Careers Pathway develops health science literacy by immersing students in the foundational knowledge and skills of the healthcare industry. This pathway is an engaging, career-oriented sequence that bridges the gap between high school academics and the high-demand world of modern medicine. Each course in the series fuses rigorous academics with technical training, empowering students to become the next generation of healthcare professionals.

The Healthcare Careers Pathway is offered at Capuchino High School and Mills High School.

Course 1: Healthcare Careers

The focus of the Healthcare Careers course is on the mastery of foundational medical skills and industry standards. Students explore healthcare careers, develop proficiency in medical terminology, and practice standard clinical operating procedures. Key areas of study include patient vital signs, infection control, and the legal and ethical responsibilities of providers. Beyond the classroom, students earn industry-recognized certifications, including OSHA 10-Hour Training and CPR, First Aid, and AED, ensuring they are career-ready.

Course 2: Sports Medicine

The Sports Medicine course allows students to apply their foundational knowledge to the specialized field of musculoskeletal health and injury management. The curriculum focuses on kinesiology, biomechanics, and the prevention and rehabilitation of injuries. Through hands-on skills sessions and simulations, students learn techniques in orthopedic assessment, athletic taping, and the development of injury prevention and treatment plans. Students gain a competitive edge for both the workforce and post-secondary education by integrating clinical skills with real-world applications, such as internship opportunities with Certified Athletic Trainers.

Students are encouraged to make connections and build their network with peers, educators, and mentors. Through projects, clinical simulations, and work-based learning, students are prepared for higher-level academics in the health sciences and a wide range of medical careers. This pathway doesn't just teach the science of the human body; it develops the critical thinking, communication, and empathy necessary to provide exceptional care in a professional environment and succeed in high school and beyond.