UM-Flint Launches UM-FERN to Combat Nursing Shortage in Thumb Region

The University of Michigan-Flint School of Nursing has launched a significant initiative to tackle Michigan’s nursing shortage in the Thumb region. Backed by a $3.94 million grant from the Health Resources and Services Administration, the UM-Flint Educates Rural Nurses program (UM-FERN) focuses on increasing the nursing workforce in rural and underserved areas like Huron, Lapeer, Sanilac, and Tuscola counties. The program seeks to address the urgent need for nurses in these underrepresented communities, improving healthcare quality and accessibility.

The initiative is spearheaded by Megan Keiser, professor of nursing and director of academic programs, and Carman Turkelson, director of the Center for Simulation & Clinical Innovation. “This initiative aligns with the guidelines set forth by the National Academy of Medicine’s ‘Future of Nursing 2020-2030’ report and emphasizes the importance of increasing nursing education opportunities,” said Keiser. The goal is to equip local residents with vital skills to enhance community health care.

Michigan’s nursing shortage is among the most severe in the U.S., particularly affecting rural areas like the Thumb region, with the shortage impacting healthcare quality and accessibility.

Key objectives of the UM-FERN program include:

• Increasing enrollment and graduation rates. Financial support is available for BSN students from the Thumb region to boost enrollment.
• Offering specialized training. Students receive targeted training in acute and long-term care settings within the region.
• Providing an accelerated pathway. The program develops an accelerated pathway to address the nursing shortage in rural areas.
• Establishing clinical faculty and preceptors. Clinical faculty and preceptors will be stationed in local healthcare facilities for comprehensive training.

UM-FERN incorporates advanced simulation-based education and virtual reality for hands-on training. The Rural Health Nursing Residency offers an 80-hour clinical immersion, prepping students for immediate employment. Supported by HRSA and partners like GST Michigan Works!, Thumb Community Health Partnership, and the Michigan Center for Rural Health, UM-FERN is set to transform healthcare in Michigan’s Thumb region.

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