WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Ben Cardin and Chris Van Hollen and Congressman David Trone (all D-Md.) today announced $100,000 in federal funding to purchase training equipment for the Allegany College of Maryland Allied Health Simulation Workforce Development Program. Funding comes from the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) and will benefit hundreds of students in the Western Maryland region. Allegany College of Maryland will be matching the $100,000 federal funding award.
The new technology will allow for nurses, respiratory therapists and physical therapy assistants to practice their consultation skills as well as treat and diagnose various injuries and conditions through simulations and hands-on learning activities. The federal funds will support the purchase of: Adult Tetherless Simulator Mannequin, an Anomatage Virtual Dissection Table, and an Advanced Multipurpose Patient Simulator and Software.
“Particularly during a pandemic, we must ensure that our health care heroes have the most advanced equipment and training possible. I am proud we are able to provide new federal funding to advance the Allegany College of Maryland Allied Health Simulation Workforce Development Program, as students will be able to develop critical skills to excel in their studies and professional careers,” said Senator Cardin, a senior member of the Senate Finance Subcommittee on Health Care. “I remain committed to securing additional resources and funding for schools and educational programs across the state.”
“During this public health crisis, our workers have tirelessly served on the front lines of our pandemic response – and we must ensure they have the resources they need to continue delivering high-quality health care to communities in Western Maryland,” said Senator Van Hollen, a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee. “This federal investment in Allegany College of Maryland’s health training programs will expand the capacity of our local medical workforce and support strong, healthy communities.”
“Allegany College of Maryland’s health professions students are dedicating their lives to helping others, and we must provide them with resources to help them succeed,” said Congressman Trone. “This cutting-edge technology will help ensure that these students have the skills they need to protect our communities.”
“Allegany College of Maryland seeks to make tangible contributions through higher education to the economic growth of the area by offering quality education and workforce development programs that address the needs of our community. This funding will allow the College the opportunity to enhance our allied health training to front line health care providers and the award could not have come at a better time. The resources provided will support the educational needs of our students and positively impact their success. This funding will directly advance our mission of serving our community and placing students first,” said Cynthia S. Bambara, President, Allegany College of Maryland.
The ARC is a regional economic development agency that represents a partnership of federal, state, and local governments. Established by Congress in 1965, ARC is comprised of the governors of the 13 Appalachian states and a federal co-chair, who is appointed by the President. Local participation is provided through multi-county local development districts.
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