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Health care worker shortages continue to plague the industry, with up to 47% of workers planning to leave their positions by 2025. Nashville, a major health care hub, is feeling the effects of this shortage. To address the talent pipeline needs, Vanderbilt University Medical Center (VUMC) is collaborating with local education institutions to create learning opportunities and fill open jobs.

Peggy Valentine, VP of allied health education at VUMC, highlights the high demand for positions such as medical assistants, EMT/paramedics, pharmacy techs, and medical laboratory scientists. VUMC is working with Nashville State Community College (NSCC) to provide medical assistant training and central sterile processing opportunities. VUMC covers tuition, books, uniforms, and supplies for employees and community members participating in these programs.

Tennessee State University (TSU) is also collaborating with VUMC to address the shortage of respiratory therapists. A scholarship program has been initiated, requiring students to commit to working at VUMC for a year or more after graduation. This partnership aims to increase awareness about the role of respiratory therapists and provide opportunities for students to pursue careers in this field.

Pearl-Cohn High School is focusing on exposing students to various health care professions, including medical assistants, HR positions, nurse practitioners, traveling nurses, and surgery techs. By providing certifications and internships, students are prepared for entry-level positions in the health care industry.

These collaborations between educational institutions and health care providers are essential in addressing the ongoing shortage of health care workers and ensuring a steady pipeline of talent to meet the growing demands of the industry. By investing in education and training programs, these partnerships are not only filling immediate job openings but also changing the trajectory of future generations by providing opportunities for diverse and underrepresented communities.