PAULDING – On Monday, March 3, Paulding County Economic Development (PCED) brought together a diverse group of leaders for their inaugural Healthcare Roundtable discussion. The conversation was aimed at addressing the challenges and opportunities facing the county’s healthcare sector. The event saw an impressive turnout, with local colleges, career centers, school officials, and business leaders collaborating to find innovative solutions to pressing healthcare issues.
Introductions of attendees opened key conversation in how each individual healthcare facility in the county is unique, with each one providing slightly different healthcare options that also bring differing requirements for employment.
A key topic of discussion was the critical need for certified nursing instructors to provide certifications essential for new employees entering the healthcare field. This instructor shortage is often salary driven and presents a challenge, but conversation was positive in helping overcome this challenge. If the group can come up with a workable solution this would open the opportunity for high school students to enter the local healthcare workforce.
Further discussion led to a plethora of ideas creating an atmosphere of collaboration and innovation between the participants. Attendees represented Community Health Professionals (CHP), Vancrest of Payne, Country Inn, Antwerp Manor, Paulding County Hospital, Vantage Career Center, Four County Career Center, Antwerp Local School, Wayne Trace Local School, Northwest State Community College, Holistic Wizard Wellness, the Paulding County Health Department and PCED.
For future action, participants agreed to let the PCED office discuss the healthcare option with high school students as they make their presentations to the local school students for the upcoming Career and Industry Expo event April 2. PCED will share the potential healthcare option to establish a number of students that may be interested in training early this summer. This would allow summer or part time employment opportunities at each facility. Based on positive response, a location would be established where new trainees could conveniently complete essential first aid training and receive additional healthcare education.
The event underscored the power of community-driven initiatives in tackling shared challenges. “We were thrilled by the enthusiasm and dedication shown by everyone in attendance,” said Jessica Stechschulte, Administrative Assistant at PCED. “This roundtable marks the first step in developing actionable solutions that will strengthen the healthcare landscape in our county.”
Paulding County Economic Development remains committed to fostering partnerships that drive progress and improve the quality of life for all community members.
