SUNY Adirondack program focuses on healthcare job shortages

The program will help meet the growing national demand for healthcare occupations, a field the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects to grow 19 percent in the next decade.

Healthcare career pathways supported through the program include nursing, certified nurse aide, home health aide, personal care aide, substance abuse counselor, and other related healthcare occupations.

For those seeking a degree, financial support will be available for non-tuition costs, such as books, uniforms and supplies. Participants in noncredit programs will receive free training and transportation assistance. All participants will receive academic and career support, including tutoring, mentoring and coaching. Job placement assistance and employment retention are also available. Noncredit and degree-based options, taken alone, or in combination, will make it possible for students to gain credentials for career entry and advancement.  

To be eligible, program applicants must meet low income requirements (receiving TANF or income at or below 200% federal poverty level).  Priority consideration will be given to those beginning their healthcare studies at SUNY Adirondack or former students hoping to make a fresh start in the healthcare field. Some opportunity is available for those currently enrolled. The grant is part of a national study and applicants will be selected by lottery. Not all eligible applicants will be selected to participate in the program.

SUNY Adirondack is part of the Upstate Partnership for Healthcare Pathways, which was awarded a Health Profession Opportunity Grant from the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services in September 2015. Other members include Schenectady County Community College, Fulton Montgomery Community College, Albany Community Action Partnership and Schenectady Community Action Program.