Peoria Standard

U.S. Representatives Darin LaHood, Angie Craig, and Michelle Fischbach, along with U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar and Thom Tillis, have introduced the Rebuild America’s Health Care Schools Act. This bipartisan legislation aims to support hospital-based nursing schools and allied health education programs facing challenges in providing training for healthcare professionals.

Hospital-based programs are crucial for educating nurses and allied health professionals who deliver essential care across Illinois and other regions, particularly in rural and underserved areas experiencing shortages. These programs are integral to improving patient outcomes.

"Hospital-based nursing schools in Illinois play a critical role in providing students with a high-quality education and supporting the health care needs of our communities – particularly at a time when America is facing a critical health care workforce shortage," said Rep. LaHood. "I am proud to introduce this bipartisan legislation to protect Illinois’ hospital-based nursing schools and allied health programs, support our hardworking nurses and health professionals, and strengthen our health system."

Rep. Craig emphasized the importance of ensuring that those entering the medical field receive necessary hands-on experience: "We must do everything in our power to make sure Americans can access the reliable, high-quality health care they need."

Rep. Fischbach highlighted the impact on rural communities: "This legislation will allow Nursing and Allied Health students...to receive their training at in-health system facilities in our rural area, helping to alleviate staffing strains."

Charlene Aaron from OSF HealthCare Colleges of Nursing expressed appreciation for Congressman LaHood's efforts: "This commonsense legislation will be a tremendous help to hospital affiliated nursing schools and allied health programs."

Rafael Malpica from Advocate Good Shepherd Hospital & Advocate Condell Medical Center noted that the bill addresses over-regulation issues: "With passage of this bill, our schools, hospitals, and health systems will be able to tackle the healthcare workforce shortage together."

Tom Kraus from the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists supported the act's focus on pharmacist residency training programs: “ASHP is a strong supporter of the Rebuild America’s Health Care Schools Act of 2024.”

The proposed act seeks to modernize regulations affecting clinical training locations for hospital-based educational programs while prohibiting unjust audits on payments related to these programs.