Setting
The study was implemented at 42 Health Profession Opportunity Grants (HPOG) programs operated by 23 HPOG grantees located in 19 states. Grantees included workforce development agencies, postsecondary educational institutions, and nonprofit agencies.
Study sample
The HPOG programs recruited Temporary Assistance for Need Families (TANF) recipients and other individuals with lower income. Approximately 56% were receiving Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)/SNAP for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC), and 12% were receiving TANF. At baseline, the average age was 32 years old. The majority (89%) of study participants were female and 63% indicated that they had dependent children at home. Demographically, 34% of the study sample were Black/African American, non-Hispanic; 36% were White/Caucasian, non-Hispanic; 7% identified as Other, non-Hispanic. About a quarter (24%) of the study sample were Hispanic/Latino and 26% were currently enrolled in school. Overall, 12% had educational attainment less than 12th grade, 34% had a high school diploma or GED, another 34% had some postsecondary experience, and 19% had a college degree.
Intervention Group
HPOG programs offered career pathways programs that targeted skills and competencies in demand by the local healthcare industry. The career pathways programs resulted in employer- or industry-recognized, portable education credentials such as certificates, degrees, professional certifications, and licenses. In addition to providing training course offerings for various healthcare occupations, as part of the intervention, HPOG programs also provided participants financial assistance and support services, including tutoring, assistance with childcare and transportation costs, and employment assistance. Students in the intervention condition were exposed to various educational and occupational supports and training specific to the healthcare field. Local implementation varied across sites.
Comparison Group
Individuals in the comparison group were not able to access the HPOG program supports. The comparison group received business-as-usual supports and services from workforce development agencies, postsecondary educational institutions, and nonprofit agencies in their local communities.
Support for implementation
No additional information provided.