Local students explore the cutting edge of medicine

Riverside Community Hospital hosted an engaging and educational robotics event in conjunction with the Riverside Unified School District. Forty-one high school students from Arlington High School had the unique opportunity to explore cutting-edge robotics technology up close and personal through live demonstrations, interactive experiences and a special presentation by Aaron Lee, DO, general surgeon and robotic surgery chair at Riverside Community Hospital, and Valerie Galvan-Turner, MD, gynecologic oncology.

From lung navigation precision to advanced surgical systems, the event showcased advanced technology and systems to students interested in the engineering and healthcare fields.  The event showed how technology is transforming patient care and outcomes. Students also had the opportunity to suggest names for all six of Riverside Community Hospital’s robotic platforms.

“It was an incredible honor to speak with such curious Arlington High School students about the future of healthcare and the role robotic technology is playing in transforming surgery,” said Dr. Aaron Lee. “Sharing the innovations we use in the operating room today and giving students a hands-on look at the tools we use was rewarding. I was especially inspired by the number of students who showed genuine interest not only in technology but also in the path to becoming a surgeon. Their energy and engagement remind me why it’s so important to invest in the next generation of medical leaders.”

“The experience was very eye-opening,” said Mickayla, Arlington High School student. “As I am thinking about becoming an EMT, learning about the doctor’s background and how he got to where he is today motivates me to keep working toward my goals. Learning about robots and having the opportunity to play with them was really fun. I’d like to learn more about robotics in healthcare in the future.”

Riverside Community Hospital hosted more students in the afternoon from STEM, Poly, and North high schools with plans for additional sessions and opportunities with more students in November.