Simply Healthcare Plans Donates Additional Scholarship Funds for Gulf Coast Students Pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Nursing Degree
Simply and GCSC reaffirm a commitment to improving healthcare in the Florida Panhandle
Gulf Coast State College (GCSC) and Simply Healthcare Plans (Simply) announced the expansion of the Simply Health Scholars Program. This program, established in 2022, is designed to grow the number of nurses in the Florida Panhandle and increase access to care in medically underserved regions.
Announced during GCSC’s Board of Trustees meeting, the $100,000 donation reflects GCSC and Simply’s shared dedication to address the critical shortage of skilled nurses in Florida. This latest round of funding for GCSC scholarships has now reached a total of $200,000.
“Simply is committed to closing the gap in health disparities and supporting Florida’s workforce through the implementation of innovative solutions that can reinvent healthcare across the state,” said Holly Prince, president, Simply Healthcare Plans. “It’s vital our institutions on the front lines of health care education and training, including Gulf Coast State College, receive strong support, especially in rural and underserved communities.”
The $100,000 donation will benefit 10 deserving GCSC nursing students who reside in the Florida Panhandle and demonstrate a commitment to remain in the region after graduation. Recipients will receive scholarships covering tuition and associated costs for the 2023-2024 academic year. These recipients will pursue a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (B.S.N.) degree and commit to practicing as nurses or health practitioners for a minimum of two years post-graduation in Bay, Calhoun, Franklin, Gulf, Holmes, Jackson, or Washington counties (Florida Health Plan Service Areas).
“In partnership with Simply, we are able to unlock opportunities for our nursing students to continue their education and excel in their careers without financial strain or worry,” said Dr. Keri Matheus, GCSC Nursing Division Chair. “Together, we are equipping the next generation of nurses with the education and skills they need to make a positive difference in the healthcare world.”
According to the Nurse Workforce Projection Report published by the Florida Hospital Association and the Safety Net Hospital Alliance of Florida, 70% of hospitals in Florida currently face critical staffing shortages. Furthermore, the report projects a shortage of nearly 60,000 nurses in Florida by 2035. This shortage is expected to have an even greater impact on rural areas, including several counties in the Florida Panhandle, which are projected to experience severe nursing shortages.
State Senator Griff Griffitts commended Simply’s philanthropic gesture, stating, “What an incredible gift from Simply Healthcare. With the nursing shortage this state is facing, we are so thankful for donations like this that help ease the financial strain for students and fulfill the needs of our healthcare industry.”
For more information on how to apply for the Simply Health Scholars Program, please visit www.gulfcoast.edu/bsn.
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