U.S. Congressman Hal Rogers (KY-05) announced today that the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has awarded the University of Kentucky Research Foundation in Hazard with a $51,073 Advanced Education Nursing Traineeship Grant. The grant will assist the university’s nursing students who are pursuing a graduate degree that focuses on the elimination of health barriers.

“Providing new and innovative research in the medical field is critical to addressing the needs of our region and others that face a shortage of nurses and health professionals,” said Rogers. “The University of Kentucky’s work to research the health disparities in rural regions like southern and eastern Kentucky is key to improving the health of so many people throughout our communities. I applaud UK for their leadership and efforts that will make a measurable difference in the lives of so many families in our region.”

The University of Kentucky Research Foundation addresses the overall goal of eliminating barriers to health access with a four pronged approach: eliminating health disparities, assuring quality care, improving the public health and health care systems, and training students in their fields of study to address these issues. Student learning experiences focus on nursing science related to chronically ill populations and populations with acute, complex health care needs, as well as rural and underserved populations. Students learn to provide advanced nursing care using appropriate care delivery strategies and also how to engage community partners in addressing health promotion and illness prevention needs.

As a senior member of the House Appropriations Committee, Rogers works to secure funding for important projects in the fifth Congressional district.