Brief details state options for addressing nursing shortage

Loosening licensing requirements, changing scope-of-practice laws, bolstering educational programs and offering monetary incentives include policies states can use to address the nursing shortage, according to a National Conference of State Legislatures brief. Supported by the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), the resource also contains the federal government’s actions to address the nursing shortage. To maintain hospital capacity, HRSA administered the Provider Relief Fund, which provides financial support to nurses who experienced lost income and greater expenses during the COVID-19 pandemic. In addition, the National Health Service Corps offers loans and scholarships to nurse practitioners who agree to provide primary care for at least two years in underserved areas.