The University of Utah's Physician Assistant (PA) Program has been awarded a substantial federal grant totaling $2 million over five years from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) to enhance primary care training in rural mental and behavioral health, with a specific focus on eating disorders and the Children’s Center CARE program.
This significant grant, under the Primary Care Training and Enhancement (PCTE) program, will support the PA program's initiative to train physician assistants in addressing mental and behavioral health challenges in underserved rural areas. A dedicated $41,000 of the grant is earmarked for stipends related to eating disorders training, emphasizing the importance of specialized care in these critical areas.
The project, led by Dr. Jennifer M. Coombs, Professor and Project Director, aims to equip PA students with the necessary skills and knowledge to provide comprehensive mental health care in rural settings, where such services are often limited. Additionally, part of the funding will be allocated to supporting the Children’s Center CARE training, further expanding the scope of behavioral health services available to rural communities.
“We are honored to receive this grant, which will enable us to expand our training programs and directly address the critical need for mental and behavioral health services in rural communities,” said Dr. Coombs. “This funding will help us prepare our students to make a significant impact on the health and well-being of rural populations, particularly in specialized areas like eating disorders and early childhood behavioral health.”
The project period will span from July 1, 2024, to June 30, 2029, ensuring sustained efforts in enhancing the PA program’s curriculum and outreach, with a focus on improving access to quality mental and behavioral health care in rural regions.