Gov. Josh Shapiro visited Temple University this week to promote his $5 million Nurse Shortage Assistance Program, writes Carmen Russell-Sluchansky for WHYY.
The initiative funds hospitals that partner with nursing schools, covering tuition for students who commit to working in-state hospitals for at least three years. Officials hope this will increase nurse retention and expand the workforce pipeline.
“We need to take action now,” Abington’s Shapiro said, emphasizing investments in education, tuition assistance, and workforce development to ensure hospitals have skilled professionals.
The shortage is significant—14% of nursing positions remain unfilled, and an estimated 20,000 more nurses will be needed by 2026. Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry Secretary Nancy Walker called the crisis urgent, noting that the state’s aging population will increase demand.
The issue reflects national trends, with nearly one-fifth of U.S. nurses expected to leave the workforce by 2027.
Shapiro’s budget also allocates $5 million for primary care loan repayment and $10 million for behavioral health providers. Additionally, proposed legislation would grant full practice authority to nurse practitioners, improving healthcare access, particularly in rural areas.
Shapiro also raised concerns about potential federal Medicaid cuts, warning they could devastate hospitals like Temple.
Read more about Shapiro’s nursing shortage assistance program in WHYY.
