Eighth-grade students at Fellowship Elementary School recently had the opportunity to explore a fast-growing healthcare career, thanks to an outreach effort by LaSalle General Hospital.

As part of the Central Louisiana AHEC MedStart program, Dustin Decker, MHA, RRT, and Lori Stevenson, RRT, met with students to discuss the rewarding profession of respiratory therapy. The healthcare professionals shared insights into the field’s rapid growth across the region, noting a strong local demand for new respiratory therapists to join the workforce.

During the presentation, students learned about the diverse work environments available within respiratory therapy, including inpatient hospital care, pulmonary rehabilitation programs, sleep laboratories, and specialized neonatal and pediatric units.

The hands-on session gave students an up-close look at the skills required in the field. Demonstrations included how to insert an artificial airway, and each student received an incentive spirometer to better understand the importance of lung expansion therapy and respiratory health.

Hospital representatives said they enjoyed connecting with the students and were encouraged by their curiosity and enthusiasm for healthcare careers. Programs like MedStart aim to introduce young people to medical professions early, helping inspire the next generation of healthcare providers in LaSalle Parish.