Community Partners

Strengthening Rural Health Care Together

RNEP’s Community Partners bridge the gap between nursing education and the rural health care workforce. They work closely with schools of nursing to provide clinical placements for rural students to gain hands-on experience in their own communities. Partnering Critical Access Hospitals play a key role in nominating students for RNEP participation and fostering long-term relationships that support the recruitment and retention of nurses in rural areas.

Why Partner with RNEP?

Support the Next Generation of Rural Nurses - Help train and mentor students who will return to work in your community, addressing local health care workforce needs.
Shape the Future of Nursing Education - Provide clinical experiences to ensure students are learning the skills most relevant to rural health care.
Build Relationships - Connect with other community health care facilities and educational institutions to build a collaborative workforce model.
Be Part of the Solution - Play a direct role in addressing rural nursing shortages by helping train and retain skilled nurses in rural communities.

How to Apply

Gather the following information about your facility:
- Average daily census
- Percentage of traveling RNs
- FTE of currently employed RNs - Associate, Bachelor's, and Master's degree students
- FTE of RN vacancies
- Services available at your facility

Identify individuals to serve as primary and secondary contacts for RNEP.
Complete the application form and submit by Monday, March 23, 5:00 PM.