Pediatricians Bring Vital Health Lessons to Rural Youth Outside Clinic Walls
Pediatricians are breaking down barriers to care in a rural Washington community. In Toppenish, where 27% of children live in poverty, a team of four pediatric residents launched an innovative after-school program. Called Health Empowerment for Adolescents in Toppenish (HEAT), the initiative brings crucial health education directly to middle-schoolers who face challenges attending regular doctor visits.
The program was funded through an American Academy of Pediatrics CATCH Resident Grant. It filled a gap in after-school programming for a tough-to-reach age group. The pediatricians partnered with a local community center to host the ten-session series.
Covering Essential Well-Child Topics
The interactive sessions covered topics typically discussed during adolescent well-child visits. These included human anatomy, personal hygiene, and the impacts of sugar-sweetened beverages. They also tackled critical issues like drugs, alcohol, anti-bullying strategies, and healthcare careers.
“The sessions promoted open dialogue,” said Dr. Hannah Benjamin, one of the founders. The goal was to create a safe, collaborative environment for students to explore these topics together. Community organizations, including local schools and tribal health services, contributed resources and support.
Proven Success and Program Expansion
The program’s first year was a clear success, with 40 students enrolled. Feedback showed students learned about the effects of drugs, the importance of exercise, and how to handle bullies. Encouragingly, eight out of nine students at the final session planned to use their new knowledge.
Due to this success, the HEAT curriculum is now scaling. Other school districts in the Yakima Valley have expressed interest in adopting it. The original team created a detailed facilitator guide so others can easily replicate the course. New residents are now leading an expanded program for 2025, with plans to add family nights to encourage whole-family behavior change.
This initiative demonstrates how healthcare providers can creatively meet communities where they are. It ensures young people get vital health information, even when a trip to the clinic isn’t possible.
