Health Education Accelerated Learning & Skills (HEALS)

A home health aide assisting her client on a walk

Overview

Health Education Accelerated Learning & Skills (HEALS) is a groundbreaking initiative led by the Missouri Department of Higher Education & Workforce Development (MDHEWD) designed to revolutionize health care education and workforce development. 

This initiative bridges the gap between education and workforce demands by identifying a unified skills framework and developing stackable credential pathways specifically designed for healthcare professions. Through active collaboration with industry leaders, HEALS ensures learners are well-equipped for high-demand healthcare roles, fostering career advancement and lifelong learning.

Core Components:

  1. Unified Health Care Skills Framework:
    • Establish a cohesive skills framework to clearly outline essential competencies and certifications required by Missouri’s health care industry.
  2. Industry-Driven Insights:
    • Continuously collaborate with health care professionals and industry leaders to ensure credentials directly address evolving workforce needs.
  3. Cutting-Edge Credential Development:
    • Provide targeted, industry-driven credentials that integrate:
      • Foundational Health Care Skills: Essential knowledge and skills required by new healthcare professionals.
      • Health Care Informatics: Training in digital health technologies, data analytics, and telemedicine to enhance healthcare delivery and decision-making.
      • AI & Health Care: Credentials emphasizing artificial intelligence and technology-driven solutions in patient care.
  4. Flexible and Transferable Credentials:
    • Offer short-term, stackable credentials that are easily accessible, transferable, and recognized across educational institutions statewide.
  5. Future-Ready Career Pathways:
    • Equip learners with highly relevant, marketable skills that enhance career mobility, adaptability, and long-term employability in Missouri’s evolving health care sector.

Join HEALS to drive health care education and innovation through preparation, collaboration, and excellence. Together, we’re building the skilled workforce Missouri needs for a healthier future.

Interested in Participating? 

Representatives from educational institutions and industry partners interested in joining HEALS are encouraged to provide their information using the form below.

Resources