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Texas Wesleyan and Weatherford College Partner to Address Primary Care Shortage

08.16.2024 | By: Texas Wesleyan University
Dr. Emily Messer and Dr. Tod Farmer sign the agreement

Fort Worth, TX — Texas Wesleyan University and Weatherford College are proud to announce a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) to expand advanced nursing education opportunities.  

This partnership will create a seamless pathway for Weatherford College nursing graduates to pursue advanced nursing degrees at Texas Wesleyan University. Eligible students can apply to the Doctor of Nursing Practice – Family Nurse Practitioner (DNP-FNP) or the Master of Science in Nursing – Family Nurse Practitioner (MSN-FNP) programs. 

Primary care providers play a critical role in delivering essential healthcare services, managing chronic conditions and preventing diseases. The United States is facing a nationwide shortage of primary care physicians, and Texas is particularly impacted from the increase of population in the state, according to Texas Health and Human Resources. This scarcity of primary care providers contributes to longer wait times, reduced access to care and poorer health outcomes for Texans.    

By increasing the number of qualified Family Nurse Practitioners, this partnership aims to address this critical shortage and improve the health and well-being of the community. Family Nurse Practitioners are advanced practice registered nurses who provide primary care services, including diagnosing and treating common illnesses, managing chronic conditions, prescribing medications and conducting preventive care. FNPs can alleviate the strain on primary care systems, improve access to care and enhance patient outcomes.  

“By cultivating a strong primary care workforce, we are not only improving access to healthcare but also strengthening our communities,” said Dr. Emily Messer, President of Texas Wesleyan University. “This partnership with Weatherford College is a vital step in building a healthier future.”  

Weatherford College students, faculty and staff will benefit from guaranteed admission spots, a streamlined application process and a 10% tuition discount at Texas Wesleyan University. 

“Graduates of the Weatherford College Bachelor of Science in Nursing program now have the opportunity to seamlessly transition to a high-quality master’s degree program at Texas Wesleyan University,” said Dr. Tod Allen Farmer, President of Weatherford College. “We are proud to expand our existing partnership with an institution as highly respected as Texas Wesleyan.” 

Group of people pose at the MOA signingDr. Emily Messer and Dr. Tod Farmer smile together

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At Texas Wesleyan, we have a rich history and a Texas-sized reputation. As stewards of the University, it is our responsibility to build a future as bright as our past.