Nursing Organizations Push for Legislation to Reauthorize Workforce Programs
Nursing organizations around the country are lending their support for the Title VIII Nursing Workforce Reauthorization Act, a bill introduced by Representatives Lois Capps (D-CA) and David Joyce (R-OH). The legislation would reauthorize and update nursing developing programs through 2020.
Deborah E. Trautman, PhD, RN, president and chief executive officer of AACN testified before the House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Health on the need to reauthorize Title VIII Nursing Workforce Development programs.
“With over 3 million licensed providers, registered nurses are the largest healthcare workforce in America and essential members of the healthcare team,” Dr Trautman said in her testimony.
Overall, more than 55 professional nursing organizations back the measure. The coalition explained that Title VIII programs have helped meet the United States’ healthcare needs by helping to supply and distribute qualified nurses. Title VIII programs are the largest dedicated source of federal funding for nursing education.
“Our organizations’ members deeply rely on these programs to foster high-quality care delivery in the wide range of settings where they practice, teach, and lead in improving health care,” a written testimony from the 55 organizations read.
Dr Trautman pointed out in her testimony that the legislation being considered would modernize the Title VIII programs, which is necessary to create alignment with the transformations occurring in nursing and healthcare.
“As we continue to ensure that all communities have access to care, it is essential that the Title VIII Nursing Workforce Development programs be reauthorized,” Dr Trautman said. “This will ensure a continued pipeline of support for the providers who spend the most time with patients—nurses.”