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For Immediate Release
May 9, 2024
RALEIGH, N.C. – The nursing shortage in North Carolina poses a serious challenge for the entire healthcare system. A new report from the North Carolina Institute of Medicine (NCIOM) and its Task Force on the Future of the Nursing Workforce not only confirms that longstanding concern but offers a series of recommendations to reverse the most alarming trends. The North Carolina Nurses Association (NCNA) is grateful to know that the issue has the full attention of groups outside the nursing profession like the NCIOM and urges decision-makers at every level to heed the warning that North Carolina needs to both educate more nurses and change the workplace culture statewide to improve nurse retention.
“My colleagues across the state and I have seen firsthand the impact of everything from burnout, workplace violence, and the staffing shortage,” said NCNA President Trish Richardson, MSN, BSBA, RN, NE-BC, CMSRN. “This report should serve as a stark warning: this isn’t a nursing problem, this is a problem for every single citizen of North Carolina. Without an adequate supply of nurses, we do not have a viable healthcare system. It is essential that hospitals and health systems, policymakers, and everyone with a vested interest in healthcare take the necessary steps to quickly begin implementing these recommendations.”
NCNA looks forward to working with leaders from all relevant stakeholders to chart a path that can quickly and efficiently expand pathways to develop the workforce and support seasoned professionals.
The NCNA Board of Directors feels strongly that NCIOM’s longstanding reputation within healthcare and healthcare policy will lend a level of credibility to these findings that can and should spur positive change. We look forward to studying the report, to continue promoting and supporting opportunities to highlight the value of nurses, and to helping address needs to ensure every North Carolinian has access to quality healthcare when they need it most.
MEDIA CONTACT
Chris Cowperthwaite, APR
Director of Communications and Outreach
(919) 821-4250 or ChrisCowperthwaite@ncnurses.org
ABOUT NCNA
As the leading professional organization for North Carolina’s registered nurses, we equip nurses at all stages to thrive in an ever-changing healthcare environment. NCNA helps keep North Carolina nurses on the cutting edge of nursing practice, policy, education, and more. Join us as we work to advance nursing and ensure high-quality healthcare for everyone.
Established in 1902, NCNA provides continuing education, networking and legislative advocacy for registered nurses throughout North Carolina. For more information, please visit www.ncnurses.org.
MISSION STATEMENT
The North Carolina Nurses Association serves the changing needs of its members, addresses nursing issues, and advocates for the health and well-being of all people.