The Washington State University College of Nursing has been awarded funding through the Washington State Department of Health’s Maternal Health Innovations Program to launch a new rural nursing initiative. With up to $100,000 annually over the next 3.5 years, the College will develop a program tailored to the needs of rural communities in northeast and southeast Washington—including Pend Oreille, Stevens, and Klickitat counties. In collaboration with local hospitals, the program will train students in maternal and obstetric care while allowing them to remain in their home communities. Rural clinical staff will be brought on as adjunct instructors, ensuring students receive hands-on experience rooted in the realities of local care delivery.
This investment comes at a critical time, as rural areas face growing shortages in maternity care. By supporting nursing education in place, the grant will strengthen the healthcare workforce and improve outcomes for pregnant people and families across underserved parts of the state.
