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Three Community Colleges
Receive Federal Funding Three Massachusetts community colleges have received grants to expand and update their patient simulation facilities. Berkshire, Greenfield, and Mount Wachusett will each receive $170,000. The money is part of a $5 million federal funding package secured by U.S. Rep. John W. Olver, D-Amherst. According to an article in the Berkshire Eagle, (Scott Stafford, Berkshire Eagle 22 Dec. 07) most of the money will go toward supporting the arts and other cultural activities in downtown Pittsfield. All three of the community colleges currently use patient simulation in the health curriculum. According to Anna Gallo Foss, Assistant Dean of Health, Nursing and Social Sciences at Berkshire Community College, the money will be used for significant upgrades to the current facility. Berkshire has been using Laerdal Nursing Anne and MegaCode Kelly patient simulators for more than a year. Berkshire Medical Center was also awarded simulation funding in the amount of $174,000. Center spokesperson, Betty Kirby, indicates that a committee will be formed to determine the best use of the funding. |