New York State Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins recently allocated $2.175 million to Pace University. This funding aims to upgrade the Center of Excellence in Healthcare Simulation in Pleasantville. The center is crucial for training the next generation of nurses and healthcare professionals.
There’s a growing need for healthcare workers. In 2021, U.S. nursing schools turned away over 91,000 qualified applicants, mainly due to a shortage of faculty and facilities. This situation makes it vital for institutions like Pace to enhance their training capabilities.
Senator Stewart-Cousins highlighted the importance of simulation in education. “This investment will allow us to train more nurses effectively. Better training means better healthcare for New Yorkers,” she stated. The simulation labs mimic real clinical settings, allowing students to practice in environments that resemble emergency rooms and delivery suites. They can also review recorded sessions with their professors to improve their skills.
The recent changes in New York State law allow nursing students to complete part of their required clinical training through simulations. Upgrading Pace’s facilities will not only expand enrollment but also enhance the quality of education, producing more skilled nurses ready for the workforce.
Leading health systems like New York-Presbyterian and Mount Sinai support Pace’s initiatives, indicating strong demand for its graduates. The upgrades will include advanced equipment and technology, providing students with realistic training experiences.
Pace’s College of Health Professions is renowned. It ranks among the best in New York, with its nurse practitioner program placed in the top five statewide. As hospitals continue to face staff shortages, institutions like Pace play a crucial role in building a robust healthcare workforce.
By enhancing practical training facilities, Pace University is set to meet the rising demands for healthcare professionals more effectively. This commitment to education and public health will shape a healthier future for communities in the Hudson Valley and beyond.
For more information on the state’s initiatives in healthcare education, you can visit the New York State Governor’s website.
