West Virginia expands healthcare workforce initiatives

West Virginia is implementing new initiatives to bolster its healthcare workforce and address shortages in underserved communities. Governor Patrick Morrisey announced a $2.4 million grant for the Ascend West Virginia program. This funding will support Ascend WV Healthcare, First Ascent Healthcare, and a new program expanding beyond the current 23-county footprint. The grant is part of the state’s Rural Healthcare Transformation Program, which aims to distribute nearly $200 million to support rural medical services.

In a separate development, Valley College and Appalachian Regional Healthcare (ARH) have entered a partnership in Beckley to support employee education. The agreement provides ARH employees with scholarships ranging from $3,000 for diplomas to $12,000 for bachelor’s degrees in fields such as nursing, medical training, business, and information technology. The partnership also offers Valley College students increased opportunities for externships and networking within the ARH system.