OMAHA- According to a new report released this week by the Nebraska Hospital Association, Nebraska Rural Health Association, and Nebraska Health Care Workforce Collaborative, Nebraska is on pace to be short 5,435 nurses by 2025. Contributing factors outlined in the report include burnout, an aging nurse population, and insufficient training funds.

"Our hospitals in Nebraska face tremendous pressure when it comes to recruiting and retaining a stable and healthy workforce," said NHA President Jeremy Nordquist, "This report highlights the significant gaps in nursing across the state, especially in the areas of behavioral health and critical care." Citing findings from the report, Sen. Merv Riepe introduced a measure to increase spending on clinical training sites for nurses, asking for a total of $6 million over two fiscal years.

The Hospital Association also stated that the ongoing nurse shortage has negatively impacted the state's economy, since citizens and businesses won't settle in areas lacking in adequate care. In response to staffing shortages, many Nebraska hospitals have had to invest "significant" resources in the recruitment and retainment of staff, something that has further exacerbated the financial hardships hospitals are facing.

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