Supporting the Drumheller Health Centre E-Sim Project
Wheatland County is proud to support the Drumheller Area Health Foundation in bringing the “Grow Your Own” Rural Nursing Program and Simulation Lab to the Drumheller Health Centre.
This initiative, in partnership with Alberta Health Services and the University of Calgary, will allow local residents to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN) closer to home. The Simulation Lab will provide hands-on training opportunities that strengthen healthcare delivery in our region while helping address the shortage of rural nurses.
Project Snapshot
- Simulation Lab Cost: $300,000 (funded by the Drumheller Area Health Foundation)
- Lab Equipment Cost: $60,000–$80,000 (provided by the University of Calgary & maintained by AHS)
- Timeline: Renovations begin late 2025, with completion in 2026 for the first student intake
- Applications Open: October 2025
Why This Matters
- Addresses nursing shortages: Trains and retains qualified nurses in rural Alberta.
- Supports rural communities: Expands access to post-secondary nursing education within 100 km of Drumheller.
- Improves healthcare access: Strengthens local healthcare services by retaining trained nurses in the region.
- Enhances training: Provides a safe, controlled environment for students and healthcare staff to refine skills, improving patient safety and outcomes.
The Drumheller Area Health Foundation is currently fundraising to make this important project a reality. Donate online: Drumheller Area Health Foundation Donation Page