Are nurses really needed now?

By Lester R. L. Lintao

Nursing is a vital profession that plays a crucial role in the healthcare industry and the well-being of individuals. Nurses provide a wide range of services, including patient care, education, and support for patients and their families. They are often the first point of contact for patients seeking medical attention and play a key role in the diagnosis and treatment of various conditions.

The need for nurses is significant and continues to grow in various countries around the world. In the Philippines, for example, the demand for nurses has increased due to the country’s growing population and the need for quality healthcare. According to the Philippine Nurses Association, there is a shortage of nurses in the country, with only 1.7 nurses per 1,000 population, compared to the World Health Organization’s recommendation of at least 2.5 nurses per 1,000 population. This shortage has led to a significant workload for nurses, who are often required to work long hours and take on additional responsibilities.

The situation is similar in the United States, where the demand for nurses is expected to increase significantly in the coming years. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of registered nurses is projected to grow by 7% from 2019 to 2029, faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is driven by several factors, including an aging population, an increase in chronic conditions such as diabetes and obesity, and the expansion of healthcare services.

In addition to the Philippines and the United States, there is also a need for nurses in various European nations. For example, the United Kingdom is facing a shortage of nurses, with the National Health Service (NHS) predicting a shortfall of around 40,000 nurses by 2023. This shortage has been exacerbated by Brexit, which has made it more difficult for EU nurses to work in the UK.

The need for nurses is not limited to developed countries. Developing nations also have a significant demand for nurses, as they work to improve their healthcare systems and provide access to quality healthcare for their citizens. For example, in sub-Saharan Africa, the shortage of healthcare workers, including nurses, is a major barrier to the delivery of healthcare services.

There are many factors contributing to the need for nurses, including population growth, an aging population, and the increasing prevalence of chronic conditions. In addition, the COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the importance of nurses and other healthcare workers, as they play a vital role in caring for patients and mitigating the spread of the virus.

To address the need for nurses, it is important to invest in nursing education and training programs, as well as to create policies that support and retain nurses in the workforce. This includes providing competitive salaries, benefits, and opportunities for advancement, as well as addressing issues such as burnout and work-life balance.

In conclusion, the need for nurses is significant and continues to grow in various countries around the world. Nurses play a vital role in the healthcare industry and are essential for providing quality healthcare to individuals. To meet the increasing demand for nurses, it is important to invest in nursing education and training programs and to create policies that support and retain nurses in the workforce.