As a partner in nursing education for the region, McLeod Health has made a contribution to an area nursing school. Support of valuable educational offerings is reflected in this year’s $25,000 gift to University of South Carolina Sumter’s nursing program.

Nursing represents the nation’s largest health care profession and the largest single component of hospital staff. By the year 2030, South Carolina will be one of four states with a nursing shortage of more than 10,000 according to an analysis by the US Department of Health and Human Services. Additional nurses will be needed to care for the aging population, who typically have more medical problems than younger people.

“The need for healthcare services is increasing as the number of aging baby boomers continues to grow,” stated Kim Jolly, Chief Nursing Officer for McLeod Health Clarendon. “As a result, more nurses are needed to educate and care for patients than ever before. Nurses have played a vital in the care of COVID-19 patients. It is crucial for our healthcare organization to support the education program at University of South Carolina Sumter so that we can continue to educate nurses for years to come.”

“We value our partnership with University of South Carolina Sumter as they prepare our future nurses to provide compassionate medical care to our patients and families,” stated Jolly. “We are honored to invest in our students, our employees, and our community as USC Sumter continues advancing educational opportunities.”

According to Jolly, nurses serve an important role in the delivery of quality health care. “McLeod Health recognizes the value of our nurse’s contribution to patient care,” said Jolly. “They do so much to keep operations running smoothly and efficiently in our hospitals.  Providing patient advocacy, promotion of a safe environment, participation in shaping health policies and patient education are also key nursing roles. With competent nurses as part of the medical team, McLeod Health is capable of carrying out its mission of providing quality health care for patients in the region.”

“USC Sumter is extremely grateful for the support shown by McLeod from the earliest days of planning our nursing program,” said Dr. Michael Sonntag, Dean of USC Sumter. “McLeod has given generously of their professional staff and executive leadership expertise, as well as to commitments of clinical training opportunities in their facilities — a necessity in preparing nurses for entry into local medical care facilities.  Their most recent contribution of a substantial financial donation further demonstrates their commitment to the partnership’s success. We are extremely grateful for the time and resources they have provided USC Sumter and pledged moving into the future.”