New Kilgore College Partnership Aims to Solve East Texas Nursing Shortage
Exciting news was just announced as Kilgore College and CHRISTUS Health have launched a new nursing initiative. According to KETK, this new partnership is called the Nursing WORKS initiative, and it's set to begin in the fall.
Kilgore College and CHRISTUS Announce Nursing WORKS
This new partnership was created to address what is being described as a nursing crisis across East Texas. The initiative will also assist aspiring nurses to gain more of the hands-on clinical experience they need.
“The Nursing WORKS Initiative creates opportunities for nursing students to gain meaningful clinical experience while earning income and learning alongside experienced nurse preceptors,” interim dean of Health Sciences at Kilgore College Dr. Sheri Gillis said.
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How the Nursing WORKS Initiative Will Operate
The program moves beyond traditional clinical rotations. WORKS is attempting to pair nurses in training with a semester-long mentor who can help them develop specific skills. Those skills include clinical judgment, critical thinking, and confidence.
Dr. Cari Lidgett, an associate chief nursing officer for CHRISTUS Good Shepherd Health System said, "Through the Nursing WORKS Initiative, CHRISTUS is providing a more personal and reliable learning experience, pairing students with dedicated mentors and real-world opportunities that prepare them to deliver exceptional care.”
Kilgore College said this new partnership shows the commitment between the college and CHRISTUS Health to strengthen the healthcare workforce in East Texas.
Who Can Apply for the Program
Admission into WORKS is not guaranteed. Any students interested in applying must also comply with all Kilgore College nursing programs and clinical requirements.
Officials hope the partnership will help strengthen the healthcare workforce across East Texas for years to come.
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