Growing nursing shortages in the MetroWest area have brought local health care providers and nursing educators together to ensure a strong nursing workforce in our community.

It is expected that one million new and replacement nurses will be needed by the year 2010, according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics. A recent study by the Massachusetts Hospital Association and the Massachusetts Organizations of Nurse Executives reports that Massachusetts is experiencing a 10 percent vacancy rate in acute care facilities, the highest in almost 14 years. In long-term care, the shortage is closer to 22 percent.

In response to current and anticipated nursing shortages, the MetroWest Community Health Care Foundation has convened representatives of local health care providers and educational institutions to examine this critical issue facing the MetroWest area, and develop strategies to encourage the training, recruitment, and retention of nurses. Key areas of discussions include improving the image of nursing by recognizing and drawing attention to the varied and critical roles nurses have in our community, increasing awareness among middle and high school students and adults considering a career change about the benefits of a career in nursing, providing up-to-date resources about the educational paths and career opportunities in nursing, retention of nurses already in the workforce, and fostering career development.

In May of 2002, the partnership worked to develop a comprehensive communication strategy to accomplish its objectives. The campaign is titled Nurse Power: Our Health Care Runs on It, and consists of educational programs and materials designed to help students, guidance counselors and career specialists better understand the educational paths and benefits of a career in nursing. The Foundation also offers scholarships to students pursuing nursing and other health professions.

The traditional role of nursing has evolved dramatically over the years, and many students are unaware of the multitude of career choices that exist within the nursing profession. "One of the things we are focusing on is educating students about the variety of opportunities within the nursing profession. Exposing students to the various specialties of nursing through hands-on activities, internships, and mentoring programs are some of the methods we are working on to increase awareness, said Cathy Glover, Program Officer for the Foundation. These programs have also created venues for nurses to help the community better understand their role and show off their skills. We always hear from students that participate in the programs that they never new nurses had so many opportunities and were so highly trained and skilled."

To receive a copy of the Nurse Power educational brochures, please contact the Foundation office. Individuals and organizations interested in participating in this effort are encouraged to contact the Foundation. You can also visit the Nurse Power website at www.nursepower.net.

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Career Changer

High School