Health systems across the country are grappling with the shortage of registered nurses, expected to reach over 300,000 nationally by 2027. Join us to learn how two health systems, The University of Vermont Health Network and Atrium Health in Charlotte, North Carolina (now a part of Advocate), are investing in their frontline talent to improve financial well-being among teammates while responding to their organization’s need for nurses. 

Mary Ann Sheahan and Betsy Hassan will share insights from the University of Vermont Medical Center’s (UVMMC) Licensed Nursing Assistant to Associate’s Degree Registered Nurse Pathway Program. Nursing Assistants who are accepted into the program receive support completing prerequisites before beginning the nursing curriculum, wrap around supports, as well as paid study time each week. Participants are supported through a unique funding mechanism with an employer funded loan program that UVMMC pays off while employed.

Chelsea Rigler of Advocate will share insights from their RN Educational Assistance Program which targets employees already accepted into an Associate’s Degree in Nursing or Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing program and provides up to three years of prepaid coverage of tuition, books and fees up to $14,000 per year, as well as paid education time.  Since 2018, the program has accepted 157 participants with 38 teammates successfully graduating and moving into ADN or BSN roles, and the current retention rate amongst participants is impressive at 93%. 

Join us for an engaging conversation about the opportunities and challenges systems face in their efforts to help employees advance along the nursing pathway, and help us bring successful strategies to life in Chicagoland!