An interstate partnership could have long-reaching impacts on mental health care in rural communities, a growing need that experts say is critical.
Idaho State University in Pocatello has partnered with Umpqua Community College in Roseburg, Oregon, in the southwest region of the neighboring state.
The partnership is meant to support rural areas, giving local students the ability to pursue a bachelor’s degree in social work without leaving their communities. Students will have the ability to earn a Bachelor of Arts in Social Work at UCC through ISU’s program, meeting a need for trained social workers.
“As the lead institution in Idaho for health care education, ISU is committed to expanding our reach to neighboring states to meet critical health care needs through strategic and collaborative partnerships,” said Robert W. Wagner, president of ISU. “We are proud to add Umpqua Community College, a leader in health professions education in Oregon, as a partner in meeting the workforce needs of our area.”
Dr. Greg Brigham, CEO of Adapt Integrated Health Care, stated that his organization is well aware of the “urgent need” for behavioral health care workers in Oregon.
“This new education and health care collaboration is an important step forward in providing a professional career path that addresses the vital shortage of licensed behavioral health professionals in our community,” Brigham said.
According to ISU, the fully accredited program is online and it will designate seats for qualified students attending UCC. They will be able to transition from an associate’s degree to a bachelor’s degree. Once they complete the BASW program, they will have the ability to apply for ISU’s online Master of Social Work program. Scholarship opportunities for students transitioning to the ISU program also exist.
“Partnering with Umpqua Community College enables us to directly address the shortage of social workers in rural communities,” said Dr. Kandi Turley-Ames, dean of ISU’s College of Arts and Letters. “By offering this pathway, we are empowering students in Douglas County to gain the education they need to serve their communities and make a meaningful impact on local mental health care. This is an important part of our mission at ISU.”
The schools stated that rural communities across both Idaho and Oregon have similar challenges when it comes to accessing mental health care.
“UCC is not only creating a pipeline of skilled workers who can meet growing health care needs, this program also opens doors for individuals to step into high-wage, high-demand careers,” said Randy Hubbard, UCC’s dean of Advanced Medical Program Partnerships.