Future doctors do NOT need to do research as high school students. They actually don’t need to do research in college either!
I would suggest that your son check to see if he can get EMS certified, or CNA. Ages vary by state.
Remember, if your son applies to medical school, the things he does in high school won’t matter one bit. The things he does in college will.
You said he already volunteers in a hospital, and that is a good way to see how things are done. He could also reach out to some doctors to see if he can shadow them but as an under 18 year old HS student, this might not be a realistic expectation.
What should he do? Take a great course load in high school…and get great grades. This will open up options for undergrad school. And possibly merit aid which will be helpful IF he eventually goes to medical school.
I would also suggest he look into some other health care professions.
Here is one place to look:
@WayOutWestMom any ideas?