PENN HOSA Inc.

PENN HOSA Inc., also known as PENN HOSA–Future Health Professionals, is the Pennsylvania affiliate of the international student organization HOSA–Future Health Professionals. PENN HOSA is dedicated to promoting career opportunities in the health care industry and enhancing the delivery of quality health care to all people. With an Employer Identification Number (EIN) of 232236058, it operates as a nonprofit entity.

Mission and Objectives

PENN HOSA's mission aligns with HOSA's overall objective of empowering future health professionals through education, collaboration, and experience. The organization focuses on developing leadership skills, motivating students, and recognizing achievements in health science education among its members. It aims to address the acute shortage of qualified workers in the healthcare industry by providing students with comprehensive training beyond basic technical skills, emphasizing people-oriented and team-oriented competencies.

History

PENN HOSA was established in 1979 following a Constitutional Convention in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. The state was awarded its national charter for HOSA during the National HOSA Convention in Cherry Hill, New Jersey. Initially, it included five chartered chapters: Berks County AVTS, Franklin County AVTS, Westmoreland Community College, Willow Street – Lancaster, and York County AVTS. The first collegiate chapter, Alpha Chapter, was organized at Juniata College in 1991. Since its inception, PENN HOSA has grown steadily and now comprises over 110 local chapters with more than 3,700 members.

Program and Activities

PENN HOSA offers a unique program of leadership development and recognition for students enrolled in Health Science Education (HSE) programs across middle school, secondary, postsecondary, adult, and collegiate levels. The organization integrates into HSE curricula to provide students with skills needed to excel in healthcare careers.

Annual State Leadership Conference

PENN HOSA hosts an annual State Leadership Conference, which features competitive events, educational symposia, and an exhibitor fair. The event attracts over 2,000 students and hundreds of healthcare professionals and educators. It serves as an opportunity for networking and exposure to healthcare industry leaders.

Affiliation Process

Chapters affiliate with PENN HOSA through the national HOSA website. This process facilitates recognition and membership benefits, including participation in special programs like the HOSA 100 Club for chapters that achieve early affiliation.

Related Entities

The Penn HOSA Foundation is associated with PENN HOSA and offers scholarships to high school seniors pursuing health care fields. These scholarships range from $2,000 to $5,000 and aim to support motivated students financially.

Significance

PENN HOSA plays a crucial role in preparing future healthcare professionals by fostering a community that emphasizes leadership, education, and service. Its activities and programs contribute to addressing the healthcare workforce challenges by developing well-rounded professionals equipped to meet the evolving demands of the healthcare industry.