Across the U.S., including in Texas, there are simply not enough nurses. Demand for all types will likely exceed Texas' healthcare workforce supply by the end of the decade, with a labor deficit of 59,970 Registered Nurses alone.
Nursing is the country's largest health care profession and nurses make up the largest segment of the healthcare workforce, but demand continues to outpace supply.
Contributing factors include a lack of nursing graduate degrees and educators; increased need from aging baby boomers and the current nursing workforce; climbing rates of chronic issues like obesity and diabetes; and workplace violence against nurses.
What is the current and potential future impact of the projected nursing shortfall in Texas and nationwide? How will a lack of nurses affect health outcomes for Texas' growing population? Who will be the most affected?
How are educational institutions, hospitals and other industry partners working to close the gap? What efforts are underway that incentivize nursing careers and improve overall working conditions for nurses in Texas?
What are the qualifications for nursing jobs and what training is required? What resources are available for individuals interested in pursuing a nursing career?
Guests:
- Cindy Zolnierek, Ph.D., RN, CEO of the Texas Nurses Association
- Sara Gill, Ph.D., RN, IBCLC, FAAN, associate dean for graduate programs in the School of Nursing at UT Health San Antonio
- Cynthia O'Neal, Ph.D., RN, associate dean of undergraduate studies at UT Health San Antonio's School of Nursing
- Lelani Mercado, deputy director of Project Quest
"The Source" is a live call-in program airing Mondays through Thursdays from 12-1 p.m. Leave a message before the program at (210) 615-8982. During the live show, call 210-614-8980, email thesource@tpr.org or tweet @TPRSource.
*This interview was recorded on Monday, January 6.
