Begley: Health care workforce needs funding support from Congress

In a MedPage op-ed this week AONL CEO Robyn Begley, who is also American Hospital Association senior vice president for workforce and chief nursing officer, urged Congress to take steps to support the healthcare workforce and hospitals facing staffing shortages. She requested that lawmakers expedite the visa authorization process for qualified international nurses. She also asked for funds to expand access to training for nurses, physicians and respiratory therapists and more investment in addressing suicide, burnout and behavioral health disorders. "It will take an act of Congress to generate the kind of support and momentum we need to address this staffing crisis now.” Begley wrote. “When we needed them the most, they were there for us, risking their own physical and mental health in the process. Now, it is our turn to be there for them.”