Entergy is providing funding to support Ochsner Health's current team of healthcare workers, as well as those training to join the frontlines of the COVID-19 response. As the healthcare needs of individuals continue to grow because of the COVID-19 pandemic, the ability to respond quickly is paramount.
The Entergy Charitable Foundation is allocating US$150,000 in funding toward a rapid Patient Care Training Program offered by Ochsner Health and the New Orleans Career Center in which Ochsner Health will train and certify the first cohort of workers to assist in patient intake. This program is designed to expand Ochsner's frontline team of healthcare workers, while also providing an opportunity for community members, including furloughed hospitality workers, to enter a career path in healthcare.
The funds will cover the training program, a set of scrubs, basic tools and supplies, study guides, and certification exam fees for 25 participants who are interested in a new career path. Normally, the Patient Care Training Program takes approximately two to three months to complete. With Entergy's support, participants in this new rapid program will receive certification in three to four weeks.
Entergy's support will also provide individually packaged meals to nearly 600 healthcare workers in the emergency department and intensive care unit, and provide family-sized packages of groceries to 500 environmental services members at Ochsner Health's Jefferson Highway, West Bank, Baptist, Kenner, and Slidell facilities. Ochsner Health frontline staff also will receive individual hand lotions to ease the discomfort of dry and irritated hands from frequent handwashing, and disinfectant wipes and gels.
"We are incredibly grateful to Entergy for supporting our Ochsner Heroes on the frontlines of the COVID-19 response. The more we can do to support these heroes during this current crisis, the better they are able to persevere and focus on caring for themselves and their patients," said Missy Sparks, vice president of talent management at Ochsner Health.
"Supporting community partners such as Ochsner Health during this critical time helps to ensure our local communities stay healthy and safe," said David Ellis, Entergy New Orleans' president and CEO. "We are honored to support Ochsner Health's program to help build a pipeline of patient care techs to answer the call now and support the healthcare system in the future."
"Entergy’s grant will support efforts to strengthen the stability of our communities by creating opportunities for laid-off or furloughed workers explore a new career path," said Phillip May, Entergy Louisiana's president and CEO. "We are committed to doing what we can to make sure Ochsner Health continues to provide the care our local communities need."
Entergy has committed more than US$1 million to support COVID-19 relief efforts across its service territory. Local efforts include support for the Hospitality Cares Pandemic Response Fund, Second Harvest Food Bank, and distance learning for students in Orleans Parish.
