The American Academy of Nursing announces the designation of Nan Gaylord, PhD, RN, CPNP-PC, PMHS, FAANP, FAAN as an Academy Edge Runner for her model, Interprofessional Practice at the Vine School Health Center: A School-Based Nurse-Managed Clinic (VSHC). The Academy’s Raise the Voice Edge Runner initiative recognizes nurse-designed models of care that improve quality, impact cost, and enhance patient satisfaction.
The Vine School Health Center is a nurse-designed interprofessional practice located within the Vine Middle Magnet School in Knox County, TN, an economically disadvantaged community with, according to the 2010 census, a median household income of $9721. The clinic is a joint cooperative between the UT College of Nursing and the Knox County Schools Health Services Department. It provides physical, mental, and behavioral health care services to children attending the school and to anyone 0 to 21 years of age who will be, or is, a student in the county. The VSHC also provides telehealth services and periodic on-site care to ten additional schools within the county. The interprofessional make-up of the health center also enables the center to assist families with social issues of concern such as food resources, housing, and clothing.
“Dr. Nan Gaylord and the Vine School Health Center represent the essence of nursing and community care,” said Academy President Karen Cox, PhD, RN, FAAN. “By bringing quality care on a broad range of issues to where vulnerable children and students learn, work and play every day, the Vine School Health Center is improving health, increasing access, and reducing the cost of care.”
In the 2016/2017 academic year alone, the VSHC provided 4455 physical health visits, 1796 mental health visits, 1896 immunizations, and 1110 Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnostic and Treatment (EPSDT) exams.
“I am honored to be designated an Edge Runner by the American Academy of Nursing for doing what I consider a privilege every day – providing care to the children and students of the Vine School and Knox County, TN,” commented Dr. Gaylord.