Eastern Kentucky University’s School of Nursing is getting money from health insurance company Humana, meant to help bolster the Commonwealth’s workforce.
That donation is being matched with another $75,000 from Kentucky’s Healthcare Workforce Investment Fund.
The funds will help create more professional development programs at the college, with more individualized support for its students.
Student Autumn Jeffery says those simulations are important for a nurse’s development.
“You can be as smart as you can be, but if you don't get the actual hands-on experience when you go into the clinical or the community setting, then you don't really know exactly what's going to go on,” Jeffery said.
EKU President David McFaddin says it’s part of a larger goal working to bolster healthcare in Kentucky.
“We rank 40th in health care outcomes, and that is just something that has to be better. We've got to do better to make sure that we are a healthier Kentucky, so that we're a more vibrant Kentucky,” McFaddin said.
EKU officials say they want the partnership to create a more sustainable workforce amid a nursing shortage. The Kentucky Hospital Association reports a shortfall of nearly 4,000 registered nurses.
** WEKU is working hard to be a leading source for public service, and fact-based journalism. Monthly supporters are the top funding source for this growing nonprofit news organization. Please join others in your community who support WEKU by making your donation.
