Written by LeAnn Thieman, CSP
Military medics and other veterans with healthcare experience or training can pursue nursing careers. The U.S Department of Health and Human Services has announced a new program to help veterans earn BSNs by “building on their unique skills and abilities,” according to an HHS news release.
Administered by the Health Resources and Services Administration, an agency of HHS, the Veterans’ Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program will fund up to nine cooperative agreements of up to $350,000 a year. Funding of $3 million is expected to be awarded by the end of fiscal year 2013 (Sept. 30).
Program funding will go to accredited schools of nursing to increase veterans’ enrollment in and completion of baccalaureate nursing programs, and to explore ways to award academic credit for prior military healthcare experience or training. The institutions also will train faculty to provide mentorships and other supportive services.
“The program recognizes the skills, experience and sacrifices of our veterans, while helping to grow our nursing workforce. It helps veterans formalize their skills to get jobs, while strengthening Americans’ access to care,” a spokesperson said.
The program is described as a step forward in addressing needs identified in the White House report, “The Fast Track to Civilian Employment: Streamlining Credentialing and Licensing for Service Members, Veterans, and Their Spouses,” which was issued in February.
What a great way to thank and honor our veterans while helping to ease the impending nursing shortage!
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Barbara Jacoby is an award winning blogger that has contributed her writings to multiple online publications that have touched readers worldwide.