Virginia Mason Franciscan Health (VMFH) recently cut the ribbon on the first-of-its-kind healthcare career pathway designed specifically for individuals who are traditionally underserved in the workforce.

The Allied Healthcare Academy will provide free and tailored training programs and extended support for those who identify as neurodivergent and people who may face other challenges. Programs offered through the Academy were developed in collaboration with Clover Park Technical College and supported by the EDB and other community partners.

“The Allied Healthcare Program not only aligns with the EDB’s goals to drive job creation, economic resilience, and community growth, but it amplifies them by preparing residents for family-wage careers in a high-demand sector,” EDB VP for Business Retention and Expansion Maddie Merton said. “This is more than just a program; it’s a powerful investment in the health, diversity and economic vitality of our region.”

The economic benefits of this program will be felt across Tacoma and Pierce County for years to come, Merton said. “When people have stable, rewarding careers, it uplifts families, strengthens neighborhoods, and creates ripple effects that benefit the entire local economy.”

Reflecting the community

“With the Allied Healthcare Academy, embracing diversity is not just an opportunity; it is a vital component of our commitment to providing exceptional care,” VMFH Chief Nursing Officer Dianne Aroh said. “We are building a workforce that reflects the communities we serve and meets the needs of every patient and team member. An inclusive workforce harnesses the unique strengths of every individual, ensuring that we can serve our communities with innovation, empathy and understanding.”

Research shows that 15-20% of the world’s population is neurodivergent, which is most commonly defined as an individual whose brain develops or works differently than what some consider “neurotypical.” Conditions like ADHD, autism, dyspraxia and dyslexia fall within the spectrum of “neurodiversity” and are all neurodiverse conditions, according to the Cleveland Clinic.

Dismantling barriers to success

The cost of training and other socioeconomic challenges are the top deterrents for those who may be interested in entering the healthcare field or advancing their current skills. Alleviating those barriers was top of mind as the Allied Healthcare Academy was developed. VMFH will cover the cost of training and supplies and pay trainees a full-time wage during their time in the program. Enrollees will also have access to employee benefits.

“This is a way for us to bring people who often face challenges to employment into the healthcare industry while dismantling barriers,” VMFH Region Director for Clinical Education Dionne Dixon said. “Like many other industries, we hope to broaden our workforce base and embrace the unique skill sets and perspectives of those who identify as neurodivergent as well as those with diverse life experiences. Each unique point of view creates new opportunities.”

Four pathways will be offered through the Academy, including:

• Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)
• Surgical Technologist (noncertified)
• Medical Assistant-Registered (MA-R)
• Medical Assistant Certified (MAC) Apprenticeship Program

Enrollment is now open for the first cohort, which will begin in January 2025.

Learn more about the VMFH Allied Healthcare Academy.