Title
a. Authorize the Chief Executive Officer for Natividad Medical Center (NMC) or designee to execute a Nonstandard Student Placement agreement with Pacific Northwest University for the provision of placements of students at NMC at no cost for the term of January 1, 2027 through December 31, 2030.
b. Approve the NMC’s Chief Executive Officer’s recommendation to accept non-standard insurance.
Report
RECOMMENDATION:
It is recommended the Board of Supervisors:
a. Authorize the Chief Executive Officer for Natividad Medical Center (NMC) or a designee to execute a Nonstandard Student Placement agreement with Pacific Northwest University for the provision of placements of students at NMC at no cost for the term of January 1, 2027 through December 31, 2030.
b. Approve the NMC’s Chief Executive Officer’s recommendation to accept non-standard insurance.
SUMMARY:
Natividad is committed to delivering the highest quality of care and optimal outcomes for patients and their families. Equally important is our dedication to fostering professional growth and continuous skill development among staff to better serve the community. One key strategy to support these goals is the establishment of clinical affiliation agreement(s) with colleges and universities offering programs aligned with organizational and community needs. In this context, Natividad seeks to initiate an affiliation agreement with Pacific Northwest University’s Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program. This partnership will create valuable pipeline for talent acquisition, as students complete clinical rotations may transition into employment in the community, helping to address vacancies in physical therapy and related roles.
DISCUSSION
The proposed affiliation agreement offers meaningful benefits to both the hospital and the patients it serves. It establishes a consistent pipeline of doctoral-trained clinicians who gain hands-on experience within our system and become familiar with our standards of care and patient safety culture. Hosting DPT students enables the hospital to identify, mentor, and recruit high-performing individuals, helping to meet workforce demands in critical high-need areas. Additionally, this partnership provides current staff with opportunities to serve as clinical preceptors and educators, supporting their own professional development while strengthening the hospital’s role as a teaching institution. Engagement with academic programs also facilitates exposure to emerging best practices, enhancing the delivery of evidence-based care. Over time, this collaboration will contribute to a sustainable, highly skilled workforce equipped to meet the evolving healthcare needs of Monterey County’s diverse population.
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 June 5, 2026.
FINANCING:
There is no cost for this agreement. There is no impact on the General Fund with this action.
BOARD OF SUPERVISORS STRATEGIC PLAN GOALS SECTION:
Natividad remains dedicated to serving the residents of Monterey County by providing exceptional, patient-centered care. As a teaching hospital, we recognize the vital role of academic partnerships in advancing professional development and career pathways. Establishing a clinical affiliation with Pacific Northwest University supports the development of a strong healthcare workforce, which not only improves patient care outcomes but also contributes to the region’s economic growth and long-term sustainability.
__ Well-Being and Quality of Life
__ Sustainable Infrastructure for Present and Future
Safe and Resilient Communities
_X Diverse and Thriving Economy
__ Administrative
Prepared by: M. Lourdes Mesina Escolta, Director of Nursing Education, 831-783-2851
Approved by: Charles R. Harris, Chief Executive Officer, 783-2553
Attachment(s):
Board Report
Pacific Northwest University Student Placement Agreement
Attachments on file with the Clerk of the Board