In a concerted effort to address healthcare disparities in rural and medically underserved communities, PNWU recently played host to the Health Workforce Listening Session and Council Meeting. The event brought together key stakeholders to explore innovative solutions to pressing issues in healthcare workforce development.
On Wednesday, June 26, participants engaged in listening sessions featuring presentations on economic and workforce data, followed by a panel discussion. Key takeaways from the session emphasized the importance of engaging Hispanic youth and people of color in healthcare careers early on, highlighting the critical need for affordable childcare to support a predominantly female workforce, and calling for funding reforms to support rural counties facing urban-like wage pressures.
The regular session, which was hosted at PNWU on Thursday, June 27, marked a significant moment for the group, as the Council traditionally meets at government institutions. The gathering highlighted PNWU’s unique role as a non-governmental, nation-leading health sciences university dedicated to improving community health in rural and underserved areas.
The session featured a panel with Dr. Mirna Ramos-Diaz, PNWU’s Chief Diversity Officer, representing the Roots to Wings program, which focuses on local youth engagement in healthcare. Additionally, a behavioral health panel showcased successful recruitment of Hispanic and bilingual providers, with three learners from Community Health of Central Washington discussing their experiences in an integrated behavioral health internship and post-doctoral fellowship program.
“The event was a great opportunity to meet leaders from other programs and help them learn about what we do at PNWU,” explained Dr. Wayne Miller, PNWU’s Provost and Chief Academic Officer.
The Health Workforce Council, first convened by the Workforce Board in 2001, has a long history of addressing healthcare personnel shortages in Washington state. The Council’s mission includes providing updates to policymakers, tracking the implementation of new programs, and advocating for sustainable solutions to healthcare workforce issues.
PNWU’s participation in the Health Workforce Listening Session and Council Meeting underscores its pivotal role in addressing healthcare disparities in the Pacific Northwest. By hosting this event and highlighting local programs, the health sciences university continues to lead the charge in improving healthcare access and outcomes for the communities it serves.