The Thumb Community Health Partnership (TCHP) is proud to collaborate with the University of Michigan-Flint School of Nursing on an innovative program to tackle the critical nursing shortage affecting our region. The UM-Flint Educates Rural Nurses program, also known as the UM-FERN project, is backed by a four-year, $3.94 million grant from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA). This initiative is focused on increasing the number of skilled nurses serving rural and underserved communities, with a particular emphasis on Huron, Lapeer, Sanilac, and Tuscola counties.
“The UM-FERN project represents a significant step forward in addressing the pressing health care challenges in our rural communities,” said Kari Granz, Program Specialist. “By empowering local residents with access to advanced nursing education and hands-on training, right here in the Thumb Region will strengthen the health care infrastructure of the Thumb and improve the quality of care for our residents.”
Michigan is among the top 10 states experiencing the most severe nursing shortages, and the impact is especially felt in rural areas like the Thumb. The shortage negatively affects health care quality and accessibility, creating additional strain on health care workers and facilities.
Key Objectives of the UM-FERN Project:
1. Increasing Enrollment and Graduation Rates: The program aims to boost the number of Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) students from the Thumb region by providing financial support for prerequisite courses and the accelerated BSN program.
2. Offering Specialized Training: UM-FERN will create opportunities for students to receive targeted training in acute and long-term care settings within the Thumb region.
3. Providing an Accelerated Pathway: The initiative includes an accelerated pathway designed specifically to address the nursing shortage in rural and underserved areas.
4. Establishing Clinical Faculty and Preceptors: Dedicated clinical faculty and preceptors will be established at health care facilities in the Thumb region to ensure comprehensive clinical training for students.
The program leverages advanced simulation-based education, including virtual reality, to deliver hands-on training. It also features a Rural Health Nursing Residency, which includes an 80-hour clinical immersion to prepare students for immediate employment in the field.
TCHP is proud to partner with the University of Michigan-Flint, GST Michigan Works!, and the Michigan Center for Rural Health to bring this transformative program to the Thumb region. “UM-FERN is not just about addressing the nursing shortage,” said Granz. “It’s about building a pipeline of health care professionals who are deeply connected to our communities. By training and retaining local talent, we’re ensuring that residents have access to high-quality care now and in the future.”
To ensure the program reaches those who will benefit most, TCHP will actively share information about eligibility, requirements, and application processes through its social media channels, local partnerships, and community events. Communications will also be supported by GST Michigan Works! to further engage residents across the Thumb region.
The UM-FERN project is designed to address Michigan’s urgent need for skilled nursing professionals. By offering financial support, advanced training, and immersive clinical experiences, the program seeks to create a sustainable pathway for local residents to enter and thrive in the nursing profession.
For More Information: Contact Kari Granz at 810-895-2918 or granz@thumbhealth.org for inquiries about the UM-FERN program and how it benefits the Thumb region.
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