GWENDOLYN STEARNS STUDENT ASSISTANCE PROGRAM
The Gwendolyn Stearns program provides financial assistance to students pursuing education and training within a variety of health care professions. Financial assistance under this program is provided through student loans and loan forgiveness scholarships in exchange for a commitment to work. Eligible applicants for assistance must be admitted into the health care career program they are pursuing which includes, but not limited to, Nursing (LPN, BSN, etc.), Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Speech and Audiology, Respiratory Care, Pharmacy, Radiology, Medical Technology and Medical Assisting. Caregivers are eligible for up to $3,500 per semester.
TUITION REIMBURSEMENT
It is the philosophy of Monument Health that its caregivers should be lifelong learners. In line with this, the Educational Assistance or Tuition Reimbursement program is offered to caregivers after six months of continuous service with the organization. Courses being requested for reimbursement must be offered by an accredited university as recognized by the U. S. Department of Education. The amount of reimbursement is based on the full-time or part-time status of the employee. Refer to Policy titled, ‘Assistance for Education, Certifications, and Training’. Full Time Caregivers are eligible for up to $2,800 per fiscal year, and Part Time Caregivers are eligible for up to $1,400 per fiscal year.
CONTINUING EDUCATION DAYS
In conjunction with the Nursing Division Education Philosophy, education days beyond orientation and mandatory education may be granted to caregivers within nursing services.
- Two education days (16 hours) annually for FT caregivers
- One education day (8 hours) annually for PT caregivers
Caregivers are encouraged to use these paid educational hours as an opportunity to increase their knowledge in an area of interest, including but not limited to: symposiums, iLearn courses and community-offered health education. The policy number for this opportunity is PC-6011-49.
MONUMENT HEALTH UNIVERSITY/ ILEARN
Monument Health University develops and delivers programs and services that:
- Provide resources and opportunities for education to develop clinical competencies
- Prepare employees to meet established standards of regulatory agencies
- Keep employees informed of current trends and research, to enable them to deliver high-quality patient care
- Enhance employees’ performance in their current jobs and prepare them for future workforce needs
- Use a wide variety of instruction methods, including live instruction and online learning
Topics presented are focused on both orientation and continuing education. Core courses provide basic education needed to achieve initial competencies. Intermediate and advanced courses provide continuing education opportunities to further develop clinical skills. Courses are offered in the format of clinical courses in person, workshops and symposiums and technology or e-Learning classes.
iLearn is Monument Health’s Learning Management System (LMS). The Center for Talent Development uses iLearn as a resource and tool for caregivers and physicians to manage their growth and development opportunities and successes.
The system includes:
- Quick access to your transcripts, training hours and certificates
- Tracking for external training opportunities, including conferences, e-learning, videos and online content
- Easy search and enrollment for clinical, professional and leadership development courses, e-learnings, videos, and much more
- Coming soon! You will also be able to complete and track your competency assessments and develop and track your individual learning plans with your leader!
For more information about iLearn, contact the Talent Development team at 755-8018.
STUDENT LOAN FORGIVENESS
Our caregivers are the heart and soul of our organization. In step with one of our key priorities – caregiver empowerment
– Monument Health has initiated a Student Loan Forgiveness Program. Forgiveness of student loans is in exchange for a signed agreement (promissory note) for an employment commitment with Monument Health. The monetary amount awarded is $6,000 over a two-year timeframe.
BSN COMPLETION PROGRAM
In our effort to make a difference every day and support an exceptional nursing workforce, Monument Health has partnered with the University of South Dakota to offer a Monument Health BSN Completion Program. Monument Health will pay for the nursing credit hours for ADN-prepared registered nurses to attain their BSN over two years through the University of South Dakota in exchange for service after graduation. The application process begins in January/February for a fall start.
NURSING CLINICAL DEVELOPMENT LADDER
The NCDL is a tool developed specifically for Monument Health. It is a structured system to provide career advancement while while allowing nurses to remain in the clinical setting. It encourages development through continuing education, commitment to quality care, dedication to patient experience, certifications, inservices, inter-personal relationships, councils, community service, and development of leadership qualities. The financial benefit depends on the level you achieve and maintain, ranging from $1,000 to $2,000 during the two year achievement period.
REFERRAL PROGRAM
The Referral Program recognizes and rewards eligible caregivers for successful referral of candidates. Monetary referral bonuses will be awarded for positions, to include part-time and full-time Patient Care Champions and Nurse Aids, Medical Technologists, Registered Nurses, and Advanced Practice Clinicians. Bonuses range from $500-$5,000.
CERTIFICATION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM
Monument Health encourages caregiver educational development and creates an environment that promotes caregiver engagement, lifelong learning and accountability throughout the organization. This certification program was established to help support educational development by providing certification assistance to caregivers to enhance their current skill levels and to promote development above and beyond the currently required skills for a caregiver’s position. Eligible caregivers must have worked for Monument Health for at least 6 months, working a minimum of 40 hours per pay period. One certification per fiscal year. In a two-year period, up to $650 can be reimbursed.