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Education

Training and Clinical Programs

Clinical Training

If you are interested in clinical hours with Southwest Health System, we may have an agreement for you. If we don’t, we can help you find one.

Please get in touch with Meghan Higman at 970-564-2160 for more information.  

Types of students we see for clinical training: Medical • Nursing • Certified Nursing Assistant • Medical Assistant • Radiology • Physical Therapy • Pharmacy • Phlebotomy • Polysomnographic Technologist • Emergency Medical Technician, Basic • Emergency Medical Technician, Intermediate • Paramedic • Surgical Technician

We also partner with the following local agencies for Emergency Medical Technician education: Cortez Fire and Rescue • Dolores Fire and Rescue • Rico Fire and Rescue • Mancos Fire and Rescue • K9 Search and Rescue

Summer Intern Education Program

The education department at SHS offers programs that encourage and expose students to healthcare. These education programs allow students to gain valuable patient care experience alongside talented medical professionals. The program runs in June.

Applications for the 2026 Summer Intern Program will open in the spring of 2026.

Affiliations: Pueblo Community College/Southwest Colorado Community College • San Juan College • The University of New Mexico • Regis University • Colorado Mesa University • University of Colorado • Montezuma-Cortez High School – High School Job Shadowing Program • Dolores High School – High School Job Shadowing Program • Mancos High School – High School Job Shadowing Program • Southern New Hampshire University

Community Education

Southwest Health System (SHS) hosts classes and training for SHS employees and the community. We provide the following training:

  • Basic Life Support (CPR) – Call for availability at 970-564-2160. Group training available
  • Neonatal Resuscitation – Every other month (even months) on the second Tuesday
  • Advanced Cardiac Life Support – On hold
  • Pediatric Advanced Life Support – On Hold
  • Prepared Child Birthing Class – Offering 1 day classes and two day classes
  • Diabetic Support Group – Offered monthly by the Diabetic Educator
  • Outpatient nutrition and diabetes counseling

For information regarding any of these programs or classes, call Education Director Meghan Higman at 970-564-2160.