OhioHealth Marion General Hospital’s Grow Your Own Medical Staff Program Builds the Next Generation of Physicians
OhioHealth Marion General Hospital is making strides in addressing the physician pipeline challenge with its innovative "Grow Your Own Medical Staff Program." Aimed at high school graduates who are getting ready to enter their freshman year of college, the program offers a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in the medical field, laying the foundation for future careers in medicine.
Originally established years ago, the program was reinstated in 2023. Under the leadership of the hospital’s medical staff and executive committee, this initiative is filling a critical need for local healthcare professionals by equipping students with invaluable skills and experiences.
Participants in the program work at the hospital and have the opportunity to shadow physicians, gaining insights into the daily workings of a hospital environment. This not only helps students stand out on college applications but also allows them to build meaningful connections with healthcare professionals who may later write letters of recommendation.
The program has been a success in the past. Currently, there are five OhioHealth providers practicing in Marion who were once part of this program. That includes Heather Columber, DO, who specializes in family medicine.
“My experience as a student in this program absolutely helped me get to where I am today,” said Heather Columber, DO. “I am glad to see this program return and to be able to offer the same support I once received to students who are passionate about studying medicine.”
Other providers who once participated in the program include Matthew White, MD, Michael McCleese, DO, Kyle Feldmann, MD, and Andrew Brown, DPM. They, along with Dr. Columber, also now serve on the program's steering committee, guiding the next generation of healthcare providers.
“This program is vital to help build our pipeline for future healthcare providers,” said Matthew White, MD, Medical Director of Emergency Services at OhioHealth Marion General Hospital. “We are facing a shortage of doctors across the country and Ohio is no exception. By supporting students who are entering careers in medicine, it’s a huge win.”
“This program gives students a leg up—they go in with more experience than their peers,” said Kerrie Reinhard, OhioHealth Marion General Hospital Director of Medical Staff Services. “We hope they want to come back here and work once they are physicians.”
Applications for the 2025 cohort are due February 1, 2025. The program is open to local high school students, with information distributed to schools in the area, including Marion Technical College and The Ohio State University at Marion. Interested students can find more details on the OhioHealth website or by contacting the medical staff office at 740-383-8717.
With its focus on mentorship, hands-on learning, and community building, Marion General Hospital’s "Grow Your Own Medical Staff Program" is paving the way for future healthcare leaders while addressing a vital need.
