EL PASO, Texas (KFOX14/CBS4) — The University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP) and University Medical Center (UMC) have partnered to launch the Geriatric Workforce Enhancement Program, funded by a $5 million grant awarded in 2024 by the Health Resources and Services Administration.
This initiative allows UTEP students to train alongside medical professionals from UMC.
Associate Professor Guillermina Solis from UTEP’s College of Nursing emphasized the collaboration, stating, “We are working with the geriatricians from UMC as well as the staff.”
The program focuses on geriatric care education, particularly in bilingual communities. It addresses the needs of adults with Alzheimer’s and related dementia, with a focus on Hispanic, American Indian, Alaskan Native and veteran communities.
Much of the training is conducted through simulations.
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Solis explained, “It is important that we use the simulation as a way to get into the experience and it becomes like an icebreaker. So when they are in the real world, they will not be as shocked.”
In 2025, the program contributed to UMC achieving Level Two Age-Friendly Care, which involves considering the specific physical, emotional and cultural needs of patients.
Solis noted, “We need to have a broader understanding not only of disease, but how the aging process takes a toll or changes and shifts.”
Faculty members assert that the program’s goal extends beyond improving care in one location.
“We are not only reaching El Paso and UTEP, but across our region,” said Solis.
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