The Moncton Hospital (Photo TDCB)
The Horizon Health Network is sounding the alarm about the critical shortage of nurses in New Brunswick and other parts of the country.
Board chair John McGarry says 320 nurses must be hired in the province every year for the next five years to meet the current level of service.
“If we’re unable to fill our nursing vacancies, we won’t be able to maintain our current services and will be forced to close certain units and reduce service,” he states.
McGarry says universities in the province have reduced the number of nursing seats available despite a shortage.
He urges the provincial Nurses Association to recognize skills for international nurses and make it easier for an LPN who wants to transition to an RN.
With an aging population, he says the need for health care services is increasing.
McGarry adds it’s time for all stakeholders to come together to help find solutions.
For more, click on the YouTube video below.
