Memorial Hospital Hosts Student Through Illinois AHEC Program

Caroline Arnold and Dr. Zachary Orme, D.O.

Memorial Hospital recently welcomed Caroline Arnold, a 2026 Millikin University graduate and aspiring physician, as part of the Illinois Area Health Education Centers (AHEC) Rural Health Experience (RHE) Program, a statewide initiative designed to introduce healthcare students to the unique opportunities and rewards of practicing in rural communities.

Arnold participated in the three-day experience July 13-15, exploring a variety of clinical departments and healthcare careers throughout Memorial Hospital and its affiliated clinics. The Rural Health Experience program provides health profession students with hands-on observation opportunities in rural healthcare settings, helping them better understand the healthcare needs, resources, and providers that serve rural Illinois communities.

A 2023 Waterloo High School graduate and recent graduate of Millikin University with a Bachelor of Science in Biology Pre-Professional Studies, Arnold is currently working as a medical assistant in primary care while preparing to apply to medical school. Her long-term goal is to become a primary care physician serving a rural community.

During her visit, Arnold shadowed healthcare professionals across numerous areas of Memorial Hospital, including the Cardiac Pulmonary Rehabilitation Center, Operating Room, Diagnostic Imaging, Therapy & Sports Rehabilitation Center, Laboratory, Pharmacy, Emergency Department, Medical-Surgical Unit, Cardiopulmonary Department, Convenient Care, Chemotherapy and Infusion Services, and Memorial Specialty Clinic. She also spent time observing physicians including Dr. Bell, orthopedic surgeon; Dr. Orme, D.O.; Dr. Lowry, M.D.; and emergency medicine providers.

The experience provided Arnold with an up-close look at how rural healthcare teams work together to deliver comprehensive care. “During my time at Memorial Hospital, I learned how important physicians are to the rural community,” Arnold said. “I saw how the providers cared for patients from the community, building relationships with them and providing personalized care.”

Arnold said one of the highlights of her experience was the welcoming environment created by Memorial Hospital staff. “Everyone was so helpful and kind,” she said. “Staff members were happy to help me find different departments and were very accommodating in making sure I could see as much as possible during my visit.”

The AHEC Rural Health Experience program allows students to shadow healthcare professionals in multiple disciplines while learning about the social, economic, and health characteristics that shape rural communities. Students gain insight into the roles of various healthcare providers and are encouraged to consider rural healthcare as a future career path.

According to Arnold, the experience reinforced her desire to pursue primary care and serve patients in a rural setting. “My favorite thing about the career I have chosen is the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on my community,” she said. “Growing up, I looked up to the physicians who served my community, and one day I aspire to provide the same quality care.”

Memorial Hospital is proud to partner with programs like AHEC's Rural Health Experience to provide students with meaningful exposure to rural medicine and the many career opportunities available in healthcare. By welcoming future healthcare professionals into its facilities, Memorial helps cultivate the next generation of providers who may one day choose to practice in rural communities like those served by the hospital. "Investing in students today helps ensure access to quality healthcare for future generations," said Mariah Bargman, Community Relations Manager. "We are committed to supporting educational experiences that allow students to explore healthcare careers, connect with providers, and gain a deeper appreciation for the vital role rural hospitals play in their communities."

As healthcare workforce shortages continue to affect rural areas across the nation, programs such as the Rural Health Experience offer an important pathway for students to discover the rewards of practicing in underserved communities. Memorial Hospital remains dedicated to providing these learning opportunities and fostering the development of future healthcare leaders.

For more information about the Illinois AHEC Rural Health Experience Program, visit the Illinois AHEC website.