listen to this articleAtlantic Health System and William Paterson University this week signed a framework agreement for collaboration to explore coordinated patient care and health professional education.
Through this partnership, the two organizations will identify and implement joint projects and initiatives to strengthen the nursing and healthcare workforce. Additionally, it provides new educational and employment opportunities for William Paterson students.
Possible initiatives include:
- Develop pathways for nursing and health care students to obtain relevant and meaningful opportunities at Atlantic Health.
- Create a program that provides students with opportunities to pursue in-demand occupations in the North Jersey region that lead to future careers in the nursing and health care fields.
- Opportunities for Atlantic Health nurses to work as adjunct faculty
- Further strengthening collaborative research centers focused on advancing science and grant opportunities
- Explore opportunities to build regional and campus health and wellness services.
In a press release, Trish O'Keefe, president of Morristown Medical Center and chief nursing officer at Atlantic Health, said the creation and implementation of this collaboration will create a strong academic relationship between the two organizations. He said it will bring about clinical partnerships.
“The result is additional opportunities for academic admissions while providing strong clinical affiliations and nursing employment opportunities,” O'Keefe said.
“Investing in the training and development of William Paterson nursing students and partnering on research will ensure Atlantic Health continues its long tradition of patient-centered, best-in-class care,” said Executive Vice President said Suja Mathew. Chief Clinical Officer at Atlantic Health. He said the system is pleased to enter into a partnership to address health needs and workforce shortages.
William Paterson University President Richard Heldobler emphasized that this collaboration has great implications for students and patients.
“As one of New Jersey's leading producers of nursing graduates, William Patterson is committed to working with Atlantic Health, one of the state's largest health care networks, to expand educational and career opportunities for our students. We are committed to meeting New Jersey's growing need for nurses, allied health professionals,'' said Heldobler.
