Applications are now open for the 2026 MedQuest camps, a free health career exploration program for Oregon high school students offered by Northeast Oregon Area Health Education Center (NEOAHEC).
Now in its 32nd year, MedQuest gives students the opportunity to shadow health professionals, learn real-life skills, and connect with resources that can help them take the next step in their career — all while meeting peers from around the state who are also excited about health care. The program is open to all students, including those who may still be unsure whether health care is the right path.
"Walking into GRH for my first shadow and realizing that I could work here when I am older inspired me to stay on my current path so I could do cool things like that,” said Ellie Sak, a 2025 Rural MedQuest participant from Boardman.
Students can choose from these MedQuest experiences in 2026:
• Frontier MedQuest | Crane, OR | July 7–11
Takes place in one of Oregon’s most rural communities — often called the emptiest place in the lower 48! This camp is smaller and more intimate than Rural MedQuest, but doesn't lack in quality. It is best for younger students.
Campers stay overnight in the Crane High School dorms and split time between Crane and Burns. Recreational activities reflect the local community, including a visit to the Crane Hot Springs.
• Rural MedQuest | La Grande, OR | June 15–20
Rural MedQuest delivers the full MedQuest experience in a larger regional health care community. This camp is very rigorous and best for students who have some experience already.
Campers stay in La Grande and explore health care settings such as Grande Ronde Hospital, La Grande Fire Department, and the OHSU School of Nursing campus.
Applications are free and now open. To learn more and apply, visit ww.neoahec.org.
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