UNK Program Promotes Health Care Opportunities in Rural Communities

The University of Nebraska-Kearney Rural Immersion Program is an important recruitment tool, providing an opportunity to connect with health science students early in their college careers and show them “all the good things happening in rural health care across the state of Nebraska.”

Said, Cozad Health CEO Robert Dyer, “There’s a need for health care professionals all across America, whether you’re in a big city or a smaller community. That’s why we have to work hard to try to bring back all of the talented individuals who are born and raised in small communities. There are certainly studies that show if you can give people training and exposure in a rural community, they’re more apt to come back to that community to work long-term.”

“The Rural Immersion Program aims to provide our students with a valuable experience of life as a rural health care provider within the hospital and community,” said Julie Calahan, engagement and retention coordinator with UNK Health Sciences. “This program is far more than just networking and exploring – it is about expanding rural health care awareness and creating long-term connections in our rural communities.”

Learn more about this unique workforce development program