Propelling Adolescents
Towards Careers in Healthcare
A free program empowering Charlotte-area students from underresourced communities to discover and pursue fulfilling careers in health care.
patch.unc@gmail.com
Building tomorrow's healthcare workforce, today.
PATCH empowers students from low-resource communities to discover and pursue fulfilling careers in health care, thereby cultivating a workforce dedicated to optimizing health outcomes for all.
Founded in 2015, PATCH is a collaboration between Wake Forest University School of Medicine and Atrium Health.
Two pathways. One mission.
PATCH Program CLT
16-week curriculum • 8 Saturday sessions
An immersive program at Carolinas Medical Center for 10th–11th grade students from CMS Title I high schools.
PATCH Regional
4-week intensive program
Designed for students in surrounding counties: Anson, Cabarrus, Cleveland, Gaston, Iredell, Lincoln, Stanly, and Union.
A real look inside medicine.
Healthcare Shadowing
Observe physicians and providers across diverse specialties.
Professional Development
Build the soft skills that healthcare careers demand.
Clinical Skill-Building
Hands-on practice with real clinical procedures and tools.
Community Health Research
Investigate the health challenges affecting your own community.
Medical Student Mentorship
1:1 guidance from medical students who've walked the path.
College & Career Guidance
Roadmaps, applications, and support for your next steps.
Who should apply?
If this sounds like you, we want to hear from you.
- Currently in 10th or 11th grade
- Attend a Charlotte-Mecklenburg Title I high school, OR
- Live in Anson, Cabarrus, Cleveland, Gaston, Iredell, Lincoln, Stanly, or Union County
- Curious about a future in healthcare
- Free to participate — no cost, ever
"Participating in the PATCH Program gave me the opportunity to get an inside look at the clinical setting in various specialties. This program has helped me see a more comprehensive side to medicine."
Mark your calendar.
All sessions: Saturdays, 9 AM – 3 PM at Carolinas Medical Center, Charlotte, NC.
Be part of the pipeline.
Volunteer / Mentor
Med students, professionals — share your journey with the next generation.
Get in TouchLet's talk.
Questions about applying, mentoring, or partnering with PATCH? Reach out.
