Hospital General de Castañer, EDP University join for nursing training
Hospital General de Castañer in Lares has signed a two-year pact with EDP University to train nurses in Puerto Rico’s mountain region.
The agreement creates a structured rotation program allowing nursing students to complete curriculum requirements at the health center. EDP will provide a stipend for each student to cover housing, meals and conference facilities. In return, the hospital’s staff will receive annual continuing education programs for up to 20 professionals.
“This partnership stems from our interest in addressing the nursing shortage that affects health care delivery throughout Puerto Rico, but specifically in rural areas,” said Giovanni Ortiz, the hospital’s chief executive.
“By training students in community health centers, we are laying the groundwork to continue strengthening health care services for residents, farmworkers and other populations in the mountain region,” he said.
Groups of 10 students will rotate in areas including the emergency room, inpatient units and outpatient clinics. More than 200 nursing students are expected to participate each year, officials said.
“Signing this agreement with Hospital General de Castañer is an honor and a significant step,” said Gladys Nieves, president of EDP University. “This partnership reaffirms our institution’s commitment to providing our nursing students with high-quality clinical experiences, connecting them with health care institutions with a solid track record.”
Hospital General de Castañer is the island’s only Federally Qualified Health Center, serving Lares, Adjuntas, Jayuya, Yauco and Maricao. In 2023, it provided nearly 50,000 clinical visits and about 9,000 virtual consultations.
