Medical students in the Flinders University SA Rural Medical Program have been out in the community, visiting primary schools to ensure children’s teddies are in the best of health.

Their recent Teddy Bear Hospital visit in the Riverland was a heart-warming highlight for everyone involved. Children arrived with their much-loved teddies, ready for a “check-up” with Flinders medical students. Together, they worked their way through a total teddy examination, checking for a healthy heart, ears, throat, bones and assisted with the teddy’s vaccination. The messaging was shared that doctors and hospitals can be friendly, welcoming places.

The event was filled with laughter, curiosity, and plenty of imaginative play as each teddy received a health check and a special certificate. It was just as rewarding for medical students, who had the chance to practice their communication skills, connect with the community, and inspire the next generation to feel comfortable with healthcare.

The feedback from the school said it all “students were so engaged they didn’t stop talking about the Teddy Bear Hospital for the rest of the day.”

A member of the Flinders staff who attended with the students said, “We couldn’t ask for a better outcome and look forward to more Teddy Bear hospitals in the Riverland and also Mt Gambier over coming weeks.”