Davenport University, U-M Health-West create innovative partnership; collaborative experience for healthcare professionals

August 7, 2026 - 02:59

Davenport University recently welcomed University of Michigan Health-West emergency medicine residents to its W.A. Lettinga Grand Rapids Campus for a day of high-tech, simulation-based training. The event, held on July 29, brought roughly 30 residents into Davenport's nursing facilities to practice critical skills using advanced patient simulators and interactive scenarios.

The partnership marks a new kind of collaboration between academic nursing programs and practicing medical teams. Davenport nursing students and faculty worked side by side with the residents, creating a rare opportunity for cross-disciplinary learning. For the residents, it was a chance to sharpen their response to high-pressure situations in a controlled environment. For Davenport students, observing experienced physicians navigate complex cases offered a real-world glimpse into emergency care.

University of Michigan Health-West leaders say the collaboration allows their team to use simulation technology that complements hospital training. Davenport officials see it as a way to strengthen the local healthcare pipeline and build stronger ties between nursing education and medical practice. Both institutions expect to continue the partnership, with more joint sessions planned in the coming months to keep building a shared culture of teamwork and patient safety.