By COLE REIF
Great Bend Post
Developing a partnership between Barton Community College and Medicalodges in Great Bend was somewhat personal for Barton’s Vice President of Instruction Elaine Simmons. Her mother moved into the long-term care facility and Elaine noticed areas that could improve to provide the best healthcare.
After months
of meetings and conversations, Barton and Medicalodges announced an
apprenticeship program that will combine classroom instruction and paid,
on-the-job training for Registered Nursing, Licensed Practical Nursing,
Certified Nurse Aide and Dietary Manager.
"When you start engaging with organizations and businesses about things they're interested in and things they need, there's a lot that goes with that," said Simmons. "With apprenticeships, there's a lot of homework. Medicalodges was all over it. They met deadlines and milestones."
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Medicalodges has more than 1,600 employees and 30 locations across Kansas,
Missouri and Oklahoma. They provide continuum of care for older adults and
those living with developmental disabilities. Simmons was excited the new
academy could boost employment issues with healthcare in the area.
"An apprenticeship gives the opportunity for the individual to learn while they earn," said Simmons. "They will be on the payroll. As they do their spot checks, training and mentoring...eventually they will complete the program and receive a certificate from the U.S. Department of Labor."
At Tuesday’s Barton Board of Trustees study session, staff also mentioned the
college is working with The University of Kansas Health System – Great Bend
Campus to create similar apprenticeship programs.