Community Hospital is proud to continue its collaboration with the University of Nebraska at Kearney (UNK) through the 2025 UNK Rural Immersion Program. Now in its third year, this initiative continues to provide students with meaningful, real-world exposure to rural healthcare while deepening their understanding of the communities they may one day serve.

The 2025 program welcomed students from a variety of healthcare disciplines, including physician assistant, pre-medical, physical therapy, and radiologic technology. Over the course of the week, students rotated through a wide range of clinical departments such as emergency medicine, surgery, radiology, physical therapy, and outpatient clinics, including orthopedics, and our rural health clinics. These rotations offered students a comprehensive view of rural healthcare delivery and the collaborative nature of care in smaller communities.

In addition to clinical training, the program placed a strong emphasis on community engagement. Students took part in guided visits to local organizations such as the public health departments, the YMCA, the McCook Economic Development Corp., as well as McCook Chamber of Commerce, and McCook Fire Dept. These experiences offered valuable insight into the social and economic factors affecting rural health and helped students better understand rural life—perspectives that may inspire them to return and serve these communities in the future.

The students also took part in educational sessions and community-focused events, such as a sports injury prevention coach’s clinic and a walking tour of key community landmarks including the Sutton Home, Norris House, the Museum of the High Plains, and the Art Bank. These activities helped students connect the dots between healthcare and the broader community infrastructure.

“The Rural Immersion Program continues to be a powerful tool for student learning and community connection,” said Lori Beeby, Vice President of Support Services at Community Hospital. “It’s exciting to see students gain a deeper appreciation for rural healthcare and the potential career paths it offers.”

Jill Truksa, Director of Surgical Services at Community Hospital went on to say, “Programs like the Rural Immersion experience are essential for helping students truly understand what it means to work in rural healthcare. By shadowing professionals in real clinical settings, students gain firsthand insight into the diverse roles and rewarding opportunities available in rural hospitals.” She went on to say, “One of our former students who shadowed in high school is now a scrub tech in our Surgery department. That’s the kind of impact these programs can have—and why I’m so passionate about supporting them.”

As the program evolves, Community Hospital and UNK remain committed to expanding its reach and impact. The 2025 cohort reflects a growing interest in rural health careers and a shared vision for strengthening healthcare in Nebraska’s rural communities.