My name is Michael Sees and I am a Medical Laboratory Science student at SDSU. I wanted to take a little time to talk about my experience with REPHS at Landman-Jungmann Memorial Hospital (LJMH) in Scotland, SD. I was first introduced to REPHS last summer (2020) when I spent some time shadowing the lab at LJMH. I got to meet a few students from the program and I knew right away that it would be a great opportunity for me to learn more about rural healthcare. Additionally, I knew that I wanted to put LJMH as my preferred site and I am so glad I did.
If I had to pick a perfect clinical site, LJMH would be at the top of the list. From my experience with REPHS I had the chance to deepen relationships I had started last summer. I absolutely love the staff they have there. They never once have treated me as a student. Rather, they always try to include me and allow me to help with patient care when possible. I also got to apply some of my program education to real world experience. I had countless moments where I was able to add to what I know with hands on work. It was extremely helpful apply my SDSU education to LJMH as it has made me a better student in the long run.
During my time at LJMH with REPHS, I was given the chance to see how rural healthcare is always working to improve the community. Not only are sites like LJMH working to upgrade their facilities (New lab equipment, new ER rooms, more staff to help out) but they are constantly getting involved in activities outside of the hospital. Several staff, myself and my student partner included, volunteered to help with things like the annual fishing derby, sports events, and just visiting with community members.
*REPHS gave me the chance to learn what it actually means to not only be part of rural healthcare but a part of a rural community as well. I will be forever grateful for the experience I gained through them and LJMH.*