Friday, May 16, 2025
5/16/2025
Community Project Funding/Congressionally Directed Spending - Construction - Rural areas in the United States face significant challenges in healthcare delivery, largely due to a shortage of trained healthcare professionals. This project aims to mitigate this issue by creating a comprehensive nursing training laboratory equipped with advanced simulation technology at Spoon River College. The primary objective of this project is to address the critical shortage of healthcare professionals in rural areas by establishing a state-of-the-art nursing training laboratory at Spoon River College. This laboratory will serve as a cornerstone for advanced nursing education, providing high-quality training and fostering a new generation of skilled nurses dedicated to serving rural communities. Key Components: Facility Development: Construction of a 7,000 square-foot facility to house the nursing laboratory, including simulation rooms, practice wards, and interactive learning spaces. Simulation Technology: Procurement of high-fidelity simulation mannequins and virtual reality equipment to provide hands-on, immersive training experiences. Curriculum Enhancement: Development of an enhanced curriculum integrating cutting-edge simulation technology and evidence-based practices, aligned with state and national nursing standards. Community Partnerships: Collaboration with local healthcare providers and stakeholders to ensure the program meets community needs and facilitates seamless transition from training to employment. Outreach and Recruitment: Targeted outreach programs to attract students from diverse backgrounds, with an emphasis on those from underserved rural communities. Expected Outcomes: Increased Enrollment and Graduation Rates: A 30% increase in nursing program enrollment and a corresponding increase in graduation rates over the next three years. Enhanced Skills and Competency: Graduates will exhibit higher levels of clinical skills and readiness for real-world medical environments, as measured by practical assessments and employer feedback. Workforce Impact: A significant increase in the number of trained nurses entering the local rural healthcare workforce, contributing to improved healthcare access and outcomes in the community. This project represents a strategic investment in rural healthcare infrastructure, aiming to bridge the gap in healthcare service by equipping future nurses with the necessary skills and knowledge. The establishment of a cutting-edge nursing training laboratory at Spoon River College will not only enhance educational outcomes but also significantly improve healthcare delivery in rural communities. This initiative seeks federal support to realize a vision of a healthier, better-served rural America.
HHS’ Tracking Accountability in Government Grants System (TAGGS) website provides access to detailed descriptions of grants, loans, aggregated direct payments and other types of financial assistance awarded by the HHS Operating Divisions (OPDIVs) and the Office of the Secretary Staff Divisions (STAFFDIVs).