February 05, 2004

Genesis Offers Health Care Worker Scholarship

Davenport, IA - In a time when our nation is growing older, the need for quality health care professionals is at an all time high. Industry experts say it's a need that will not be met if Generations X and Y don't overcome their misconceptions that health care is a chaotic, and stressful occupation.

Genesis Health System (GHS), through its affiliates and divisions, is implementing several long-term and short-term tactics to help alleviate the impact the nationwide health care worker shortage is having on the Quad Cities. Genesis Health Group (GHG) physicians, with management assistance from the Genesis Health Services Foundation is again offering scholarships for high school seniors and college undergraduates who are seeking health care degrees.

GHG, an integrated group of Quad City-area physicians, unveiled the scholarship program last year. They plan to encourage local students to remain in the bi-state region and pursue careers as physicians, nurses, medical assistants, radiology technicians and other health professionals.

The Bureau of Health Professions reports health care jobs must grow to more than 14 million in the next eight years in order to meet increased demand. In 2000, there were 10.9 million health care workers in the United States, but the profession is forecasted to be one of the fastest growing in the country.

"There are simply not enough graduates to fill many of the health care vacancies," said William M. Langley, M.D., Medical Executive Director for Genesis Health Group. "My colleagues and I hope this scholarship program will help encourage students to pursue medical careers and continue our efforts of providing compassionate and quality health care to all those in need in our community."

The scholarship program has two categories. The first is for college undergraduates, from the Quad City area, who are planning to attend an accredited medical school in Iowa or Illinois. These students are eligible for one of four $1,500 scholarships. "The financial burden of rising tuition costs can discourage young people from pursuing their medical degree," adds Dr. Langley. "This program may help ease some of the financial burden for undergraduates in pre-med or biology-based preparatory programs."

The six remaining scholarships, worth $1,000 each, will be awarded to local residents who are also planning to enter health care professions. Some of the eligible college programs include professions that would normally be seen in a physician clinic, including medical assistants, nurses, nurse practitioners, nurse midwives, physician assistants, radiology technicians, medical technicians and dietitians. Residents of GHS's 10 county service area may apply for this scholarship. It covers tuition and education expenses at an accredited technical, two-year or four-year college or university in Iowa or Illinois.

GHG includes 89 practitioners conveniently located in more than 30 offices in seven counties in the bi-state area. Many of the practitioners have served the Quad City region for more than 20 years. "We are fortunate to have a long legacy of physicians who not only care for their patients --- but also care for the health and welfare of our community," said Leo Bressanelli, President and CEO of Genesis Health System. "The fact that the physicians of Genesis Health Group are willing to invest in the future of the Quad Cities' health care workforce is further testament to their commitment and readiness to share the fruits of their successes."

Other scholarship opportunities and initiatives underway within GHS, through its affiliate hospitals and divisions include: the Genesis Health Services Foundation Gala Scholarship, the mentoring program for Scott County high school students; the financial support for the initiation of St. Ambrose University's nursing program, the development of a career ladder program and increased involvement of nurses' participation in decision-making.

Questions and application requests for the Genesis Health Group Scholarship or the Genesis Foundation Gala Scholarship can be directed to Genesis Health Services Foundation at 563-421-6865. Application deadline for the Health Group Scholarship is April 2, 2004, and scholarships will be awarded in May 2004.

GHG Scholarship Cover Sheet
Eligibility Requirements
Professional Referrals
Application - Pre Med Degree
Application - Health Related Degree