America faces the stark reality of a national nursing crisis, yet some members of Congress are increasing partisan attacks against the colleges and institutions training much needed health care professionals. These attacks appear short-sighted, given the current reality. According to recent news reports, 126,000 nursing positions presently remain unfilled and by 2020, the projected nursing shortfall is estimated at 400,000.
Health care experts estimate the shortage will increase as the Baby Boomers age and the need for health care expands. The American Nurses Association contends that several other factors, including the economic recovery, the Affordable Care Act, market changes, and care coordination, are all contributing to the demand for more nurses.
Private colleges and universities are an important asset in educating and training nurses who fill these crucial positions. These are jobs often filled by single mothers, mothers looking for shift work while raising young families, returning veterans, and recently divorced women. These institutions offer non-traditional students the opportunity for a good vocational education and training which will lead to decent and well paying jobs upon graduation.
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