Local college receives millions to establish new healthcare learning center for students
DOTHAN, Ala (WDHN) — Wallace Community College has received a $2.9 million grant to open and operate the Wiregrass Center for Rural Healthcare Opportunities at Dale Medical Center in Ozark.
According to a release from the community college, the new center is expected to significantly impact Dale County and the surrounding areas by serving as a hub for licensed practical nursing (LPN) and mental health technician (MHT) students wanting to develop and expand their skills.
At the Wiregrass Center for Rural Healthcare Opportunities, students are expected to move from the earliest stages of exploring careers in healthcare to completing training programs. After successfully obtaining a certification/licensure to work in the field, students may be able to work in local rural healthcare.
The grant was awarded to WCCD as part of the Alabama Centers for Rural Healthcare Opportunity legislative appropriation.
“Wallace Community College is proud to lead the way in expanding healthcare training and reducing worker shortages in the Wiregrass,” said Dr. Linda C. Young, WCCD President. “With the funding of the innovative Wiregrass Center for Rural Health Opportunities at Dale County Medical Center in Ozark, residents of the greater Dale County and adjacent counties will be able to earn healthcare credentials and begin a healthcare career pathway closer to home.”
The center’s goal is to alleviate the ongoing shortages of licensed practical nurses, nursing assistants, and mental health technicians.
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