Elizabethtown College’s School of Graduate and Professional Studies (SGPS) is equipping healthcare professionals with the practical communication and leadership skills needed to improve patient-centered care and workforce culture through the recently launched Essential Skills Workshop for Healthcare Professionals.
Developed in partnership with the Lancaster Chamber, the six-course, fully online workshop is delivered through Etown Edge, the College’s microcredential platform, and available to both chamber and non-chamber members. The self-paced program is designed specifically for working healthcare professionals, supervisors, and team leaders to strengthen communication, teamwork, professionalism, resilience, and leadership skills.
“The partnership with the Lancaster Chamber reflects a shared commitment to strengthening the healthcare workforce through innovative and accessible professional development opportunities,” Elizabethtown College Dean of the School of Graduate and Professional Studies Dr. Marcy McCarty said. “We are grateful for the Chamber’s vision and collaboration in creating a program that addresses the evolving needs of the healthcare sector while supporting the professional growth of employees throughout our local community.”
In addition to the six-course program, supervisors and team leaders can purchase the additional leadership package, which includes a practical coaching toolkit with module summaries, conversation prompts, observable behaviors checklists, and booster activities. Completion of the program’s six modules will earn participants a certificate of achievement and a digital badge.
“Through the Talent for Tomorrow Healthcare Collaborative, employers consistently identified gaps in workplace skills that are essential for success in healthcare settings,” Heather Valudes, Lancaster Chamber President and CEO, said. “While technical training and education prepare individuals for the clinical aspects of their roles, employers shared a need for stronger communication, teamwork, accountability, conflict resolution, professionalism, and patient-centered care skills. This micro-credentialing training program not only helps participants become more effective team members and improves the patient experience, but also strengthens their own career readiness, confidence, and long-term advancement opportunities in the healthcare field, supporting the delivery of high-quality care throughout our community.”
Through the support of the Direct Care Worker Job Quality grant, this program is being offered at no cost to home health aides, personal care assistants/patient care assistants, certified nursing assistants (CNAs), and individuals currently enrolled in CNA training programs who are employed by Lancaster Chamber member organizations. Funding is available through the end of 2026 or until grant funds are fully expended.
Etown SGPS also partners with the Lancaster Chamber to offer a 15% tuition discount on educational programs that enhance the skills and professional development of employees and chamber members, as well as their spouses and dependents.