CGH Medical Center Launches Paid CNA Training Program

CGH Medical Center in Sterling, Illinois, has announced the launch of a new Basic Nurse Assistant Training Program that is approved by the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH). This initiative aims to make healthcare careers more accessible for individuals seeking a pathway into the medical field.

The program provides full-time paid employment while participants undergo training to deliver safe and compassionate care for patients. It also prepares them for the Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) exam. Participants will be employed as CGH employees, working three 12-hour shifts each week during the seven-week training period. This structure allows students to earn a paycheck while fulfilling classroom, lab, and clinical learning requirements alongside experienced CGH team members.

Comprehensive Training and Employment Opportunities

The program is designed to cover all 21 essential Basic Nursing Assistant skills outlined in the IDPH Model Curriculum. Classes will take place in CGH’s dedicated classroom and lab facilities, with clinical experience offered in the medical and surgical departments of the hospital. To support students’ learning, textbooks and practice materials will be provided, and study sessions will be integrated into work shifts.

Upon successful completion of the training and the CNA exam, participants may transition into permanent CNA positions at CGH. The first cohort is expected to commence in late March 2024, with plans for up to two classes annually, contingent on workforce needs.

The program specifically addresses the challenges faced by working adults who may find it difficult to balance full-time employment with traditional CNA coursework. By combining paid employment with training, CGH is facilitating a smoother transition for community members into meaningful healthcare careers. This approach also supports the increasing demand for skilled and compassionate CNAs.

Application Process and Requirements

Interested applicants must meet specific criteria set forth by both the IDPH and CGH, which include being at least 18 years old, possessing a high school diploma or GED, passing a background check, and adhering to vaccination standards.

For more information about the program, interested individuals can contact Dana Conkrite from CGH Human Resources at 815-564-4845 or via email at [email protected]. Additional inquiries may be directed to Jennifer Grobe of CGH Nursing Administration at 815-625-0400, ext. 5870, or [email protected].

Applications are currently being accepted through the CGH website at www.cghmc.com/careers. Prospective candidates can search for “Student” under the current job openings to apply. This program represents a significant step towards enhancing healthcare workforce development while fostering community involvement in the healthcare sector.