Medcorp launches 2-year nursing programme

Medcorp Ltd on Monday launched its Enrolled Nursing Assistant Programme, in which 12 women will receive training and certification after completing the two-year course.

The launch is the result of two years of discussion between Medcorp and the Nursing Council. Medcorp is the second private institution to be recognised by the Council to train ENAs. The first was Community Hospital of Seventh Day Adventists in the 1980s. Gloria Noel, Medcorp Coordinator, Educational Services said the Ministry began training ENAs in 1968 in response to the nursing shortage. Training was open to persons who were interested in providing nursing care but who did not have the entry requirements to be a registered nurse.

Speaking at the official launch at Good Health Medical Centre, Fitzblackman Drive, Woodbrook, Noel said the Ministry and SDA no longer trained ENAs and Medcorp is happy to accept the challenge. Medical Chief-of-Staff at St Clair Medical Dr Ronald Henry told the trainees they are beginning a journey about “learning the science of nursing duties.” He said they must recognise that the eyes of regulating body—the Nursing Council — will be on the programme but this alone will not ensure the outcome Medcorp wants to achieve. Dr Henry challenged the Medcorp’s Education Department to recognise that their role went beyond education and also involved enlightenment. He said two years from now participants in the course must not only be imbibed with skills and knowledge but also “dressed and clothed in social contract.”

Yvonne Pilgrim, executive secretary of the TTRNA, also stressed this aspect of the ENA’s role. She told the trainees they have entered a field where they will be required to care for members of the public. She said they must have commitment and dedication to their studies, punctuality and regular attendance to achieve their goals. She admonished them to “remember the caring aspect, because the knowledge-base is not all.” Pilgrim said this is an important part of the service they would provide.