Finding Nurses for the Future

The number of licensed RNs in Florida was 176,113as of June 2002. That number can be deceiving, however, as not all licensed RNs are practicing in healthcare. In any case, Florida's RN supply has not kept pace with its aging population, which has the highest percentage of elderly in the nation. U.S. Health Resources and Services Administration projections show Florida will need 34,000 additional nurses by 2006.

Current initiatives to address the national nursing shortage include a myriad of strategies. Hospitals across the country are recruiting nurses from other countries, the most targeted being the Philippines and Canada. Financial compensation, including relocation and sign on bonuses, are the most common incentives. Programs like Johnson & Johnson's Discover Nursing,and Nurses for a Healthier Tomorrow, coordinated by Sigma Theta Tau International, are two media approaches designed to recruit new nurses, as well as encourage existing nurses to remain in the profession.

The shortage has become a priority, and federal and state legislators have implemented programs aimed at increasing the number of nurses. Health ca reorganizations are also playing a part in their communities by offering financial support to nursing students, usually in exchange for an agreement to work within the organization for a period of time following graduation.

Acting Locally
As part of the Foundation Scholars Program at Winter Haven Hospital, 10students currently are receiving comprehensive support for tuition and expenses in their nursing education. The program was established by the Mid-Florida Medical Services Foundation, and provides a permanent endowment to help students in their studies to become registered nurses, licensed practical nurses or radiology technologists.