AZ Blue Invests $200,000 to Empower Students in Northern Arizona's Education

AZ Blue Invests in Student Education

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona, commonly known as AZ Blue, has made a significant commitment to the future of education and healthcare in Northern Arizona by donating $200,000. This funding is part of their ongoing efforts through the AZ Blue in Action initiative, which strives to improve health services throughout the state.

Focus on Educational Growth

The recent financial infusion aims to enhance the learning experiences of students from middle school through to college-level nursing programs. Specifically, the contribution is designed to address pressing needs identified in the healthcare sector, particularly the scarcity of healthcare workers and limited educational training opportunities available to students in the area. Approximately 65% of primary care service areas in Arizona are deemed medically underserved, affecting Northern Arizona in particular.

The $200,000 donation was distributed equally between two pivotal educational programs aimed at fostering future healthcare professionals. The first recipient, Coconino Community College (CCC), is set to benefit from funds allocated to their summer STEAM Middle School Camps. Over 400 middle school students are expected to engage in a variety of educational activities free of charge, exploring disciplines such as science, coding, theater, and more. Dr. Heather Carter, the Medicaid Segment General Manager and CEO of Health Choice Arizona, emphasized that strong communities are built through strong educational opportunities, underlining the necessity for such initiatives.

The second funding allocation supports Northern Arizona University (NAU), which will utilize the funds to launch a new Bachelor of Science in Nursing program, called the Global BSN. This innovative format aims to expand access to nursing degrees, particularly for students from small towns and rural communities across the state. By providing flexible options, students can continue their education without relocating, allowing many to eventually serve as healthcare providers in their hometowns. The program anticipates enrolling over 30 students by Fall 2025, all aiming to become registered nurses.

Tackling Healthcare Workforce Needs

In addition to supporting nursing education through the Global BSN initiative, the funding will aid students pursuing a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program. This will include scholarships for ten students, facilitating their advancement in this crucial area of healthcare.

Since the year 2020, AZ Blue Health Choice has collaborated with the NARBHA Institute to invest more than $3.4 million specifically in Coconino County. This investment has focused on addressing various community needs ranging from food security, housing, and job support, to access to essential health services and educational opportunities.

Paul Penzone, the Chief Community Relations Officer for AZ Blue, stated, "AZ Blue in Action is about helping Arizonans get the care and support they need – and that starts by investing in the people who will one day provide it." This investment is integral to shaping a supportive and resourceful future for the next generation of healthcare professionals.

To learn more about their efforts and future projects, visit the AZ Blue in Action webpage.

About Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona, often referred to as AZ Blue, is committed to promoting health and wellness among Arizonans, making it easier for them to access healthcare services. Serving over 2 million customers, AZ Blue operates as a non-profit entity and stands as an independent licensee of the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association. The organization has a substantial workforce of more than 3,200 employees operating across its offices located in Phoenix, Flagstaff, and Tucson.

For more information, please visit azblue.com or follow AZ Blue on social media platforms like Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Facebook.