Boise, ID, January 6th, 2021 – Primary Health Medical Group has hired 15 Student Registered Nurses (RNs) in an effort to quickly expand COVID-19 vaccination services across the Treasure Valley.
Primary Health began vaccinating its own health care workers in mid-December at one location, and is now helping vaccinate staff from other health care groups at four locations, giving 160 vaccines per day. The addition of the Student RNs will help Primary Health continue to expand vaccine services without pulling resources from urgent care, COVID care or family medicine services.
“I met with the Student RNs this morning and the energy in the room was incredible,” said David Peterman, M.D., Primary Health CEO. “They are excited to start working and make a difference when it comes to COVID in the Treasure Valley. We are so thankful for Dr. Jayne Josephsen and the School of Nursing at Boise State University for helping us arrange this, and think this partnership is another great example of how health care organizations can come together to serve our community.”
Each Student RN previously completed their injection training as part of their regular education, and they are receiving the same comprehensive training given to all Primary Health staff.
Shayla Worcester, Student RN, was eager to apply to give COVID-19 vaccine at Primary Health clinics. “As nursing students, we have a huge knowledge base, but there’s not a whole lot we can do with it yet. It feels awesome to be able to give COVID-19 vaccine. I feel like I can actually use my knowledge to make a difference, and I’m excited to get the experience of caring for patients in a clinical setting. Clinical opportunities have really been limited due to the pandemic.”
Primary Health is offering vaccine in accordance with the priority tiers outlined by the CDC, the State of Idaho and the health districts. Updates on vaccine eligibility and availability are published at PrimaryHealth.com.