JACKSON – The Northampton County Board of Commissioners approved a request from the county’s health department here during their Nov. 5 meeting. Andy Smith, Director for the department, explained the partnership proposal would benefit the county in several ways.

The request was for the health department to serve as a field training site for Family Nurse Practitioners through Walden University’s program. Smith noted there would be no cost for the county, and the university would complete background checks on all participants.

“It will be a great opportunity for us to help local students to basically train under a local provider and get a good education right here in the county,” he added.

Additionally, Smith stated the partnership could potentially help Northampton County recruit and maintain more medical providers in the future.

“It’s a win-win,” he concluded.

The Board had a few questions before they decided to accept the proposal. Chairman Robert Carter noted Walden University is based out of Minnesota, and Commissioner Fannie Greene asked for some clarity on where the training would take place.

“Walden has got a huge background in long-distance learning, but they require the clinicals to be done on-site,” Smith explained, stating the training would be done at the health department itself.

County Manager Kimberly Turner said she approved the partnership, but added her suggestion that the county be sent some sort of verification from the results of Walden University’s background checks on participants.

“This is thinking outside the box. This is bringing resources to Northampton County,” said Commissioner Charles Tyner, who was pleased with the proposal.

Tyner motioned to approve the partnership and Greene seconded. The quick vote was unanimously in favor.