The country as a whole suffers from a shortage of registered nurses. But if you’re an experienced RN, your job skills and training are badly needed in some states more than others.
According to a recent Health Resources and Services Administration study, the national average of nurses (792 nurses per 100,000) fluctuates widely by state. For example, the District of Columbia has the highest number of registered nurses--2,236 registered nurses per 100,000 population. Next is New Hampshire, which has 1,321 nurses per 100,000. The states with the least nurses are Idaho, Nevada, California, Utah, Arizona, New Mexico, Texas and Oklahoma. The state of California fared worst with only 603 nurses per 100,000, followed by Nevada with just 612 nurses per 100,000.
The World Health Organization recommends that any locality have a least 1000 nurses per 100,000 population. That said, there are a number of developing countries that are severely understaffed with just 10 nurses per 100,000 population.
If you’re a nurse or presently studying to become a nurse, you might consider moving to a state where nurses are desperately needed. Hospitals and healthcare centers in these underserved areas would more than likely offer far more attractive incentives for qualified applicants. Some of these employers might even offer lucrative relocation assistance and tuition reimbursement plans.
At Children’s Hospital in Los Angeles, for example, qualified nurses are being offered high pay, big incentives, and a generous relocation program. One nursing package includes a $10,000 sign-on bonus, $1,500 monthly housing allowance and a $5,000 relocation package.
For an added perspective, check out this video:
If you have any thoughts on the nursing shortage in your state, feel free to share them in the comments section.
Alex A. Kecskes has written hundreds of published articles on health/fitness, "green" issues, TV/film entertainment, restaurant reviews and many other topics. As a former Andy/Belding/One Show ad agency copywriter, he also writes web content, ads, brochures, sales letters, mailers and scripts for national B2B and B2C clients. Please see more of his blogs and view additional job postings on Beyond.com.
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