Published December 22, 2021 
New Funding Opportunity for AACN Member Schools
The Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) released a Notice of Funding Opportunity for the Nurse Education, Practice, Quality and Retention-Mobile Health Training Program. This program aims to increase diversity and strengthen education and training of the nursing workforce with the goal of enhancing access to care in rural and underserved communities. Those interested in learning more about program requirements and applying should plan on attending the technical assistance webinar on January 20, 2022, from 2-4 PM ET on Zoom here. To apply by the February 22, 2022 deadline, click here.
Dr. Francis Collins Steps Down as NIH Director
On December 19, Francis S. Collins, MD, PhD, stepped down as the Director of the National Institutes of Health (NIH). Dr. Collins was the longest serving presidentially appointed NIH director, having served under three U.S. presidents over a 12 year-span. A physician-geneticist, Dr. Collins took office as the 16th NIH director on August 17, 2009, and helped develop and achieve bipartisan Congressional support for NIH research. Current Principal Deputy Director, Lawrence Tabak, DDS, PhD, will serve as acting director effective December 20. For more information, click here.
House Passes the Dr. Lorna Breen Health Care Provider Protection Act
On December 8, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the Dr. Lorna Breen Health Care Provider Protection Act (H.R. 1667/S.610). This bipartisan legislation would establish grants and activities to improve mental and behavioral health and prevent burnout among healthcare providers. The House-passed bill now heads to the Senate for a vote before it could be signed into law by the President.
AACN Attends Virtual Event on Climate Change and Health Care
On December 15, AACN attended the Axios webinar on climate resiliency in the healthcare system. Representative Lauren Underwood (D-IL-14) and the National Academy of Medicine President, Dr. Victor Dzau, were featured speakers. Rep. Underwood emphasized the need to reduce the severe effects of climate change on maternal health and the importance of building sustainable healthcare infrastructure. To watch the webinar, click here.
