LOUISVILLE, Ky. — The University of Louisville announced it received $6.5 million in federal funds that will help better address the needs of underserved populations and help Kentuckians access health care.
Some portion of 113 Kentucky counties are designated as Health Professional Shortage Areas. Health care professionals — including nurse practitioners — are urgently needed in underserved communities, according to the University of Louisville.
Quinesia James is a registered nurse working to become a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner through the University of Louisville’s School of Nursing.
“My aspirations to be a nurse practitioner stem from my interest in working with vulnerable populations,” she said. “I’m especially interested in working with individuals who have experienced domestic abuse or substance abuse.”
The opioid crisis hits close to home for her because she knows people who have been impacted by substance use disorder, she said.
“It’s a very soft spot for me, so it’s kind of where that all stems from, and I want to make a difference in that area,” said James.
James has received a scholarship as part of a federally funded project to advance diversity and health equity in the health care workforce.
“It’s made a major difference for me, just as everyone knows, school … is pretty expensive. So being able to be granted a scholarship is major,” James said.
Sara Robertson is the assistant dean for the Doctor of Nursing Practice programs.
“Funds will be used to recruit and retain APRN students, including underrepresented minorities and those from disadvantaged and rural backgrounds, to increase the diversity in the nursing workforce and to better address the health care needs of the rural and urban underserved populations,” she said.
The grant funds will also support scholarships for up to 83 students to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, according to the University of Louisville.
Last month, the Kentucky Hospital Association said Kentucky was short 6,000 registered nurses.