EL PASO, Texas (KFOX14\/CBS4) \u2014 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. <\/p>\n
This initiative allows UTEP students to train alongside medical professionals from UMC.<\/p>\n
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.” <\/p>\n
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. <\/p>\n
Much of the training is conducted through simulations. <\/p>\n
RECOMMENDED: El Paso libraries launch pantry drive for MLK Day<\/a><\/p>\n 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.”<\/p>\n 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. <\/p>\n 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.”<\/p>\n Faculty members assert that the program’s goal extends beyond improving care in one location. <\/p>\n “We are not only reaching El Paso and UTEP, but across our region,” said Solis.<\/p>\n