James M. Jeffords: “In response to the nursing shortage, I am joining Senators Kerry, Hutchinson, Daschle, and others in introducing the…”

“In response to the nursing shortage, I am joining Senators Kerry, Hutchinson, Daschle, and others in introducing the Nurse Reinvestment Act. Our legislation increases the number of qualified individuals entering the nursing profession and provides them with the skills they need to provide care in the twenty-first century. We are facing a looming crisis. There is a need to encourage more dedicated Americans to enter the profession, and to support them once they are there. All facets of the health care system will have a role to play in ensuring a strong nursing workforce. Nurses, physicians, hospitals, nursing homes, academia, community organizations and state and federal governments all must accept responsibility and work towards a solution. Yet, the size of our nursing workforce is remaining stagnant, while its average age is increasing rapidly. In 1980, 53 percent of all nurses were under the age of 40. In 2000 that percentage dropped to 32 percent. In Vermont the numbers are even lower, where only 28 percent of nurses are under the age of 40.”