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accessHealthNews.net
August 2024
Volume 10 | Issue No. 87
In the bustling heart of Kansas City,
Missouri, Samuel U. Rodgers Health Center
stands as a beacon of hope and healing
for its diverse community. Beyond its
commitment to providing comprehensive
health care services, SURHC has pioneered
a groundbreaking initiative aimed at
shaping the future of health care delivery:
the Nurse Practitioner Residency Program.
Nurse practitioners (NPs) play a pivotal role
in modern health care systems, bridging
the gap between traditional nursing
care and specialized medical expertise.
However, the journey from nursing school
to competent NP practice can be arduous
and challenging, often leaving new
graduates feeling underprepared for the
complex demands of patient care.
Recognizing this gap, Sam Rodgers
launched its Nurse Practitioner Residency
Program with a mission to empower newly
graduated NPs through structured clinical
training and mentorship. This innovative
program, the first of its kind of any
Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC)
in Missouri, aims to enhance clinical skills,
cultivate leadership abilities, and instill a
deep commitment to community health.
The program's origins trace back to
Dr. Ginger Vaughn-Pullin, DNP, FNP-BC,
Director of Quality, Director of Clinical
Programs, who first encountered the
residency model at a conference.
Inspired by the opportunity to create
a collaborative learning environment,
Dr. Vaugh-Pullin spearheaded efforts to
establish the program, navigating the
complexities of accreditation and securing
crucial funding through a Health Resource
and Services Administration (HRSA) grant.
Originally planned for two residents, the
grant allowed for an expansion to four
residents and additional faculty, marking
a pivotal moment in Sam Rodgers'
commitment to health care education.
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"Our residents are not just learning; they are leading the
future of health care."
- Director of Nurse Practitioner Residency Program,
Ginger Vaughn-Pullin