IU Health·Indianapolis, Indiana
Support non-clinical patient care activities and observe healthcare professionals to gain insight into hospital operations. Participate in a three-year apprenticeship involving structured learning, competency training, and patient well-being support.
The High School Healthcare Assistant is a supervised learning and employment opportunity designed for high school students who are interested in exploring careers in healthcare. Through structured educational and workplace experiences, students gain exposure to hospital operations, patient care environments, and a variety of healthcare career pathways.
Under the supervision and guidance of licensed healthcare professionals, students participate in hands-on learning experiences while supporting non-clinical and basic patient care activities. This role promotes the development of professional skills, healthcare knowledge, and career readiness while upholding the highest standards of patient safety, confidentiality, compassionate care, and service excellence.
This position is part of a three-year apprenticeship program and provides students with meaningful opportunities to learn, grow, and prepare for future careers in healthcare.
Key Responsibilities
Participate in structured learning experiences, including orientation, competency-based training, simulation activities, clinical observations, and career development opportunities.
Observe members of the healthcare team during patient care activities and hospital operations to gain insight into clinical roles and interdisciplinary collaboration.
Support patient comfort and well-being by assisting with basic, non-clinical tasks under appropriate supervision.
Observe patients during assigned activities and promptly communicate any concerns to the supervising healthcare professional.
Assist with preparing patient rooms, stocking supplies, and transporting equipment, materials, and other items as needed.
Learn and apply hospital policies and procedures related to safety, confidentiality, infection prevention, professionalism, and respectful communication.
Support the physical, social, emotional, and spiritual well-being of patients across the lifespan.
Assist with taking and documenting vital signs, supporting activities of daily living, and observing clinical procedures as appropriate for training and competency level.
Utilize medical equipment and supplies in accordance with established guidelines and under supervision.
Maintain accurate documentation and communicate effectively with members of the healthcare team.
Engage positively with patients, families, and colleagues while supporting IU Health's mission, vision, and values.
Why Join IU Health?
The High School Healthcare Assistant Program provides students with valuable real-world healthcare experience while supporting their academic and career goals. Participants gain exposure to healthcare professions, develop essential workplace skills, and build a strong foundation for future educational and career opportunities in the healthcare industry.
Indiana University Health is Indiana’s most comprehensive health system, with 15 hospitals and nearly 40,000 team members serving Hoosiers across the state. We’re looking for team members who are inspired by challenging and meaningful work for the good of every patient. People who are compassionate and serve with a purpose. People who aspire to excellence every day.
Must be a current high school student entering 10th grade with a commitment to a three-year program and good academic standing. Requires Basic Life Support (BLS) certification and successful completion of background checks and health clearances.
Market context
In Indiana, assistant high school healthcare roles can be competitive because they combine early-career entry with structured training and clear advancement pathways. Candidates should note that this role requires current high school enrollment entering 10th grade, a three-year commitment, BLS certification, and passing background and health clearances; leadership development, promotion opportunities, cross training, and advanced clinical training are listed benefits. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits here to save time, then confirm your academic standing and certification status before applying.