Nursing Shortage

In a recent report by the HRSA (Health Resource Services Administration), they report the number of licensed nurses has been on the upswing in the past few years but the shortage continues and nurse to patient ratios remain below the 6:1 national average that is suggested.

This upswing began around 2000 and looks like it is continuing. It may partly be attributed to the average salaries rising as well. It is good news for hospitals looking to fill more openings, but bad because of the salary requirements.

This survey is conducted every four years and included roughly 35,700 RNs in 2004. The current estimate is that the supply of these nurses has risen about 8% from 2000-04.

Wages rose significantly during this time frame with an average 14% increase. This was the largest inflation-adjusted salary increase since 1980.

According to the report, the average age of nurses’ also rose which reflects fewer younger nurses entering the profession. The average age now stands at 46.8 years, up from 45.2 years.

Even though some of the numbers are promising, the shortage is projected to continue and any thought otherwise would be shortsighted.

The wage increase does reflect the importance of these nursing positions and government and private insurers will also need to recognize the additional cost of these professionals when it comes to reimbursement.

The full report can be found at Preliminary Findings 2004 National Sample Survey of Registered Nurses