The Alaska Parish Nurse Health Ministry Resource Center at Providence is an outward expression of our Mission and Core Values, extending the compassion and healing ministry of Jesus, with special concern for those who are poor and vulnerable. We nurture the spiritual, physical and emotional well-being of those we serve.  The Resource Center provides a unique relationship between two communities: the health system and the faith community, creating a vital link in health care.
Parish Nursing is recognized by the American Nurses Association as a specialty of nursing practice with its own Scope and Standards of Nursing Practice. Providence provides education, support and resources for the development and growth of parish nurse programs through out the state of Alaska. The Parish Nurse Health Ministry Network provides: [Forms]
• The Parish Nurse Health Ministry Basic Preparation Course
• Monthly, ANA approved, continuing education for parish nurses
• Monthly health ministry and parish nurse network meetings
• Yearly retreats and conferences
• Annual parish nurse & pastor gatherings
• Onsite consultation and support
• Resource library:
- Books
- Publications
- DVDs and Video programs
- Teaching aids
- Blood pressure, diabetes and cholesterol screening equipment. Parish Nursing in Alaska
Around the country, faith and health partnerships are changing the life of communities. Churches, hospitals, departments of health and social service agencies are working together on health issues of mutual concern. Alaska is a part of this exciting time. One example is the number of health and parish nurse ministries that are growing in Alaska. Almost 80 nurses have attended advanced training in parish nursing and provide some form of health ministry in their faith community. There are over 10,000 parish nurses in the U.S. Parish nurses in Alaska are becoming a vital link in the health care system. They provide education, resources and advocacy for members of their congregation and greater community. For example, through on-site health screenings, parish nurses have been able to catch problems early. They follow through to insure people get the medical attention they need. They help people understand their medication and treatment plans, assisting them to manage their health problems. Many a parish nurse has diverted a stroke or heart attack through the simple but faithful practice of offering regular blood pressure screenings at the church. As health advocates, parish nurses accompany people to the emergency room or doctor's office, to be that extra set of ears and help decode medical jargon. They also assist people with paperwork and resources to navigate the health care maze. Weaved into everything they do, parish nurses provide a reassuring, healing presence to the people and communities they serve. For more information about the history of parish nursing or to learn more about parish nursing in other parts of the country, check out our resource page. | 
