The South Dakota Department of Health (DOH) is excited to announce the return of Scrubs camp and Camp Meds for the 2025-2026 school year.
“Scrubs Camps and Camp Meds provide students with hands-on experiences in a variety of healthcare careers—from medicine and nursing to emergency services and more,” said Department of Health Secretary Melissa Magstadt. “We’re proud to help the next generation of healthcare workers see the many possibilities available in this rewarding field.”
The camps are open to students in grades 6–8 (Camp Meds) and grades 9–12 (Scrubs Camp) who are interested in healthcare careers. Participants engage in interactive activities, work alongside healthcare professionals, and experience real-world scenarios that illustrate the education and skills needed for these vital professions.
Camps Across the State
Each camp is hosted in a different South Dakota community, giving students from all regions the chance to participate. The DOH partners with local schools, healthcare providers, and community organizations to offer these programs free of charge. Upcoming camp dates and locations are available on the Scrubs Camp website.
Supporting Students and Educators
The DOH also provides resources to enhance the camp experience, including activity toolkits, promotional materials, and detailed camp guides. These tools help students, educators, and healthcare providers maximize learning and engagement.
“As the demand for healthcare professionals continues to grow, Scrubs Camps and Camp Meds help inspire students to consider careers in nursing, radiology, therapy services, and other essential healthcare fields,” Magstadt added. “These local events are a fantastic way to support youth and foster the future healthcare workforce of South Dakota.”
The Yankton Scrubs Camp was held on October 8, 2025, at the Pavilion on the Avera Sacred Heart Campus. The event was hosted by Southeast South Dakota AHEC and led by Executive Director Carrie Peschl, along with Loretta Bryan, RN, from SDAHO.
A total of 83 students from eight different school districts participated in the camp, where they explored a variety of healthcare careers, including Radiology, Dental Hygiene, Medical Laboratory Science, Nurse Anesthesia, Applied Behavioral Analysis, Nursing, Health Sciences, and Community Health Work. Many students shared how much they enjoyed the day, especially the hands-on experiences offered in each discipline. Additionally, during lunch, a career and education fair was held, giving students the chance to explore even more opportunities within the healthcare field.
For more information or to register for an upcoming camp, visit the South Dakota Department of Health Scrubs Camp page.
About the South Dakota Department of Health
The Department of Health’s mission is to protect and improve the health of all South Dakotans. The department promotes wellness, prevents disease, and works to ensure access to quality healthcare for every South Dakotan.
