GRC’s club for future healthcare professionals, HOSA, is widely known for its outreach events at the local elementary schools called “teddy bear clinics.” The students get to bring their favorite stuffed animals to school for a “check-up” by HOSA members and experience healthcare in a relaxed environment to prevent fear of said healthcare.
The teddy bear clinics take place several times throughout the year to reach every Clark County elementary school, as well as the preschool.
“HOSA members act as ‘healthcare providers’ for the day,” said HOSA sponsor Mrs. Cruse. “They guide younger students through stations where they check vitals, listen to heart and lung sounds, apply bandages, discuss healthy habits, and explain procedures using teddy bears or dolls as patients.”
Healthcare experiences can be intimidating and daunting for younger children. The clinics help to ease any uncertainties they may have.
“The focus is on education, comfort, and reassurance,” said Cruse. “The goal is to help younger children feel comfortable with healthcare experiences, and to give HOSA members meaningful, real-world practice in communication, professionalism, and compassionate care.”
Not only do the students get to have fun and learn about healthcare, they have the opportunity to interact with high school students who can become inspiring role models.
“Older students give them one-on-one attention, listen to their questions, and treat them with respect, which builds confidence,” said Cruse. “They look up to them. Younger kids naturally see high school students as role models and want to imitate their kindness, confidence, and leadership.”
While the clinics are intended to benefit the younger students, they also have a purpose for the high schoolers participating in the events.
“It builds essential skills they’ll need in any healthcare role—communication, empathy, professionalism, and patient education,” said Cruse. “It also gives them early exposure to real-life interactions, helping them understand that healthcare is not just about skills, but about connection, trust, and compassion.”
Working with younger students can be incredibly rewarding and serve as a reminder to be curious and confident.
“I love their curiosity and honesty,” said Cruse. “They ask real questions, aren’t afraid to engage, and truly soak in the experience. Watching their confidence grow—even in a short time—is incredibly rewarding.”
