Beginning this month, pediatric nurse practitioners from UT’s College of Nursing will work at the Mountain People’s Health Council in Huntsville, Tennessee, to serve children in Scott County two days a week. In addition, a pediatrician from the college will also serve the children once or twice a month.
This is the first partnership developed by the college and its Center for Nursing Practice to improve access to health care in this community.
“The Center for Nursing Practice is pleased to have initiated and facilitated an expansion of the college’s pediatric primary care expertise,” said Nan Gaylord, director of the center and professor of nursing. “Children in Scott County will now have access to our pediatric nurse practitioners and pediatrician. We are excited about the relationship with the Mountain Peoples Health Council and the clinical opportunities in Scott County for our nursing students.”
This endeavor was made possible by a private grant that initiated the Center for Nursing Practice. The center promotes the health of Tennessee communities through increasing access to care; supporting the proliferation of nurse-managed clinics; community outreach; collaboration; and providing quality education to nurses, health care professionals, and nurse leaders in Tennessee and beyond.
James Lovett, executive director of the Mountain People’s Health Council, said he can’t wait for the partnership to get started. To make an appointment, call 423-286-4141 or visit the council’s website.
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CONTACT:
Emily Kissel (865-974-2755, ekissel@utk.edu)
Tyra Haag (865-974-5460, tyra.haag@tennessee.edu)