Teddy bears gather at York primary school for health checks
Posted on 15 December 2005
Third year students will be working with children between the ages of four and seven. Hisham Nobeebaccus, who organised the Hospital said, "There will be some fun activities on health such as diet, exercise and medicine, so the children can gain an interest in health, enjoy themselves and learn something at the same time that is related to their curriculum".
The students will set-up a number of teddy bear doctor stations, where children can bring their sick teddy and describe any symptoms it may be suffering from. The doctor and child will make a diagnosis together. By doing this, the children act as 'mum or dad', taking the responsibility for their sick toy.
We believe that the event will reduce children's anxiety about health
Hisham Nobeebaccus
After the consultation, the children and the teddy bear doctor will treat the patient by applying bandages and plasters. Finally the children and 'doctor' will write out a 'pawscription' such as, 'in need of love and attention'.
The medical students hope the Hospital will help to put children more at ease when they need to see a doctor or go to hospital.
"We believe that the event will reduce children's anxiety about health, but their interest might also increase. Interacting with the children will improve our communication skills and help our development as future doctors" said Hisham.
Hisham and six fellow students are hoping that more Teddy Bear Hospitals will be held in future at other schools in the York area.
Notes to editors:
- Teddy Bear Hospital is a public health project for three to seven year old children. It is one of several projects run by Medsin at HYMS, in which any medical student can participate.
- There is a Medsin branch at almost every medical school in the UK. The Medsin group at HYMS was set-up in September 2005.
- HYMS was established by the Universities of Hull and York, in partnership with the NHS. Set up in answer to a national need for more doctors, HYMS welcomed its first students in September 2003.