Memphis, Tenn.-based Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare partnered with the University of Memphis to provide associates subsidized — and in some cases fee-free — education, the organizations said Dec. 5.
Under a new program called the MLH Associate Advancement Program, associates can enroll in online and flexible education plans through the U of Memphis. Entry-level workers, who make up about 25 percent of the hospital's workforce, will be eligible for the programs, set to open this spring.
During a media call Dec. 5, Methodist Le Bonheur officials said more than 200 associates are already interested in the programs. Employees who are interested in becoming a certified nursing assistant or surgical technologist can get their entire program paid for by Methodist Le Bonheur. Another option employees have is an online bachelor's degree program in either health services, health sciences, healthcare leadership or organizational leadership, which Methodist Le Bonheur will help cover up to $4,000 a year.
"When an associate walks through our doors on their first day of work, we believe that day can represent the very beginning of a rewarding journey of advancement and career progress," Michael Ugwueke, president and CEO of Methodist Le Bonheur, said in a press release.
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