Healthcare Workforce Summit

POTENTIAL SOLUTIONS:

>> A very important aspect to solving the problem is the collaboration and partnership of educators, healthcare professionals and employers. >> Apprenticeships are a model that can be applied to any profession that requires more than a minimal amount of training. ◆ Need to continue the conversation to really understand the benefits to students as well as employers and education. ◆ Can be paid for by the sponsoring organization. Employers must be willing to invest in the employee. ◆ Apprenticeships can open the door to individuals who could never participate because of jobs, families, or other responsibilities. ◆ Programs are flexible and designed to be short-term. ◆ Apprenticeships are a solution that can also be sustainable. ◆ Example: Michigan currently utilizes apprenticeships with entry level healthcare, LPNs, and RNs. NY State has recently approved certified nursing assistant apprenticeships. >> We need to convince every unit/department of the huge impact even 1 individual could make if they take responsibility for even 1 clinical group, and how much of a positive difference that could make. ◆ Get creative in offering ways to support nurse managers so they can take clinical groups. Think outside the box. >> Consider advanced certification in nursing education so there are dedicated education leaders and student instructors. Educate nurses as educators, not just clinicians. >> Skilled trades are getting kids excited at the elementary school level – nursing can do the same thing as an investment in a long-term solution by bringing more individuals into the profession – and ultimately more nurse educators.

Left to right: Grace Dengler, Amy Hadfield, Lydia Rotondo, Dr. Marcy Lynch

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Finger Lakes Workforce Development Center