New Celebrity Introduces Students to Need, Advantages of Health Ca...( Schools Across State Participate ...),Health

Schools Across State Participate in Health Careers Week -- Nov. 5-9

HARRISBURG, Pa., Oct. 30 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Pennsylvania's newest celebrity -- health care hero and furry rapper, G-Hog -- is making his way across the commonwealth with his high school posse, via the Internet, to encourage young people to consider the many opportunities in the health care industry.

"We desperately need more young people to pursue health care occupations to meet the growing needs of Pennsylvanians," Governor Edward G. Rendell said. "These occupations not only promise the opportunity to save and improve lives, but they pay well and there are plenty of openings and chances to advance. And who's better than a giant rapping groundhog to get the attention of young people?"

Governor Rendell has designated Nov. 5 - 9 as Health Careers Week with the theme, "Become a Health Care Hero." Throughout the week, the commonwealth will promote career opportunities in health care -- particularly those occupations in high demand throughout the state.

Students will participate in local events highlighting the many career opportunities available in the heath care industry. Tenth graders have already competed in an essay contest, writing about their personal health care heroes. Winners will be recognized at local, regional and statewide levels.

This year's Health Careers Week focuses on 16 specific occupations in critical need of qualified workers statewide: behavioral health; clinical laboratory sciences; dental hygienists and assistants; emergency medical technicians and paramedics; direct care workers; health information systems; medical imaging; medical secretary; medical transcription; nursing; occupational therapy; pharmacy; physical therapy; respiratory therapy; social work and surgical technology.

Meet G-Hog and find out more about Health Careers Week at http://www.state.pa.us, PA keyword:
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