Title
a. Authorize the Chief Executive Officer for Natividad Medical Center (NMC) or his designee to execute a retroactive agreement between the County of Monterey and Sonoma State University for the provision of Placement of Students at Natividad Medical Center, for the term of August 1, 2025 through July 31, 2028 at no cost; and
b. Approve the NMC’s Chief Executive Officer’s recommendation to accept non-standard indemnification, provisions within the agreement
Report
RECOMMENDATION:
It is recommended the Board of Supervisors:
a. Authorize the Chief Executive Officer for Natividad Medical Center (NMC) or his designee to execute a retroactive agreement between the County of Monterey and Sonoma State University for the provision of Placement of Students at Natividad Medical Center, for the term of August 1, 2025 through July 31, 2028 at no cost; and
b. Approve the NMC’s Chief Executive Officer’s recommendation to accept non-standard indemnification, provisions within the agreement
SUMMARY:
Natividad Medical Center is initiating an education clinical affiliation agreement with Sonoma State University for the Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) Program. Under this agreement, Natividad Medical Center will provide qualified FNP students with structured clinical rotations in designated service areas. These rotations will allow students to gain practical experience in patient care while supporting Natividad Medical Center’s goals of advancing professional development and contributing to the broader healthcare workforce. In addition, this collaboration will strengthen Natividad Medical Center’s talent pipeline, creating opportunities to recruit highly trained nurse practitioners and other advanced practice professionals to fill future vacancies. To ensure that all deliverables under the agreement are achieved, Natividad Medical Center will collaborate with Sonoma State University faculty through regular communication, ongoing monitoring, and clinical supervision to confirm alignment with program requirements.
DISCUSSION
The proposed services are mutually beneficial to both Natividad Medical Center and the patients it serves. This agreement provides a reliable pipeline of advanced practice clinicians who are trained within Natividad Medical Center’s system and familiar with its culture of care. By hosting FNP students, Natividad Medical Center has the opportunity to identify and recruit talented individuals, addressing workforce needs in high-demand roles. Additionally, opportunities for staff to serve as preceptors and educators foster ongoing professional development while reinforcing Natividad Medical Center’s reputation as a leading teaching hospital.
Patients benefit from enhanced access to care through the integration of supervised FNP students into clinical practice, expanding provider capacity while maintaining quality oversight. Exposure to current best practices from the academic setting also strengthens the delivery of evidence-based care. In the long term, this partnership helps ensure that Natividad Medical Center can sustain well-trained workforce dedicated to meeting the needs of Monterey County’s diverse community.
OTHER AGENCY INVOLVEMENT:
The Office of County Counsel has reviewed and approved this agreement as to form, and the Auditor-Controller has reviewed and approved as to payment provisions. The agreement has also been reviewed and approved by NMC’s Finance Committee and by its Board of Trustees on October 3, 2025.
FINANCING:
There is no impact on the General Fund with this action.
BOARD OF SUPERVISORS STRATEGIC PLAN GOALS SECTION:
Natividad Medical Center is dedicated to serving the people of Monterey County by providing the highest quality care to every patient. As a teaching hospital, Natividad Medical Center recognizes the importance of supporting professional development and career advancement through partnerships with colleges and universities. Establishing a clinical affiliation with Sonoma State University’s Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) Program will contribute to building a stronger healthcare workforce, which in turn supports economic development and growth opportunities within Monterey County. The program will prepare and graduate qualified FNPs, thereby expanding the pool of advanced practice professionals in the region and enhancing access to high-quality healthcare for local residents.
__ Well-Being and Quality of Life
__ Sustainable Infrastructure for Present and Future
X Safe and Resilient Communities
X_Diverse and Thriving Economy
__ Administrative
Prepared by: Maria Lourdes M. Escolta, Director of Nursing Education, (831) 783-2851
Approved by: Charles R. Harris, Chief Executive Officer, 783-2553
Attachment(s):
Board Report
Student Placement Agreement
Attachments on file with the Clerk of the Board