Lifespan is hoping to beef up its workforce by offering a newly licensed nursing assistant training program.
"This particular program is very targeted to the hospital environment," said Ara Millette, director of Talent Acquisition and Workforce Development at Lifespan.
This is in direct response to a shortage of certified nursing assistants.
But it was a process as the hospital group had to apply for and receive approval from the Rhode Island Department of Health to provide this training.
"This program is entirely homegrown. It relies upon Lifespan staff and nurses that are providing the education," said Millette.
Typical CNA training in Rhode Island is between six and twelve weeks, and can cost hundreds, sometimes more than $1,000. This one is free through funding from the Papitto Opportunity Connection.
"We have a pretty unique course in the sense that it is a little bit longer than some of the others you may see. It's a 14-week class that's blended with a four-week internship at one of the Lifespan locations," said Millette.
A total of 18 weeks! Much of the training is virtual; part of it is spent in a simulation lab.
"The entire space is staged almost as though it were a hospital environment," said Millette. "One of the things that sets us apart is we have two key functions. One is case management with wrap around support services so that really is designed to address any barriers to education or employment. So, that may be childcare, transportation, utilities, whatever could be potential barriers will be addressed."
The other component -- employment transition. There is a coordinator who tracks each candidate up to one year after the completion of the program.
"Not only do we offer all of the required training through the Department of Health in order to become a certified nursing assistant, we address financial literacy for our program participants as well as emotion intelligence, professionalism, so we provide lots of tips and guidelines for our participants to be a success in the workplace," said Millette.
Of course, the hope is that most, if not all, end up at one of the Lifespan hospitals.
"They're guaranteed an interview. But this is very much an 18-week interview for both the participant and Lifespan to ensure that it would be a best fit on both sides," said Millette.
Is this something she thinks we'll see more of?
"I do think it's important that hospitals are at the table and are thinking about ways that we can solve some of our own issues locally so I do think that you will start to see more homegrown training solutions," said Millette.
To qualify, you must be 18 or older and be vaccinated against COVID-19 and have a desire to work in the health care field.
The first session begins on July 24, but applicants are required to attend an information session. The next one is on May 9.