TITLE: Honoring CommUnityCare, The University of Texas at Austin School of Nursing, and Central Health for creating a family nurse practitioner residency program.

SUMMARY: Honoring CommUnityCare, The University of Texas at Austin School of Nursing, and Central Health for creating a family nurse practitioner residency program.

FULL TEXT:
WHEREAS, Central Health, CommUnityCare, and The University of Texas at Austin School of Nursing have united to address the shortage of primary health care providers through the establishment of a family nurse practitioner residency program; and WHEREAS, Although they are vital providers of primary care, nurse practitioners have traditionally not had the benefit of postgraduate residency training programs; such programs equip physicians with the skills necessary to meet the many challenges presented by patients who seek care at federally qualified health centers, and Central Health, CommUnityCare, and The University of Texas at Austin School of Nursing have recognized that such preparation would be highly valuable to nurse practitioners as well; they have collaborated to create one of the nation's first such programs at CommUnityCare, where nursing residents will care for patients while expanding their knowledge and experience; and WHEREAS, In the fall of 2011, members of the first class of residents will begin a yearlong training program administered by CommUnityCare, which will provide preceptors to serve as teachers and mentors; the UT School of Nursing is recruiting students for the program, to be funded by Central Health; nurses will make a commitment to continue practicing in community health care settings after they complete their residencies; and WHEREAS, This innovative residency program will enable its participants to reach higher levels of professional achievement while enhancing the quality and availability of skilled primary care in Texas communities; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 82nd Texas Legislature hereby commend CommUnityCare, The University of Texas at Austin School of Nursing, and Central Health for creating a family nurse practitioner residency program and extend to all those associated with this noteworthy program sincere best wishes for success in the years to come; and, be it further RESOLVED, That an official copy of this resolution be prepared for CommUnityCare, The University of Texas at Austin School of Nursing, and Central Health as an expression of high regard by the Texas House of Representatives. Naishtat Speaker of the House I certify that H.R. No. 2059 was adopted by the House on May 26, 2011, by a non-record vote. Chief Clerk of the House