Governor Josh Stein has urged Secretary of Education Linda McMahon to reconsider a policy that could affect healthcare education programs in North Carolina. The appeal comes amid concerns over a nursing shortage and aims to support the development of the state’s healthcare workforce.
According to the Office of the Governor, North Carolina is experiencing significant shortages in its nursing workforce, with an estimated 13 percent vacancy rate for registered nurses statewide and a 15 percent gap in rural counties. These figures exceed the national average of a 10 percent vacancy rate. The state also reports a need for licensed practical nurses, with approximately one-third of positions unfilled. Governor Stein expressed concern that a recent Department of Education decision could worsen the situation, stating, "We should be reducing barriers for people who want careers in the health care fields, not creating them."
Reports indicate that North Carolina has taken steps to address nursing shortages through bipartisan efforts. The announcement notes that in 2023, the North Carolina General Assembly allocated $55 million to healthcare education programs. These funds supported 108 initiatives across 58 community colleges, aiming to strengthen the state’s pipeline of future nurses.
In addition to funding educational programs, North Carolina has pursued alternative pathways into the healthcare workforce, including apprenticeship programs. Governor Stein highlighted these efforts in his State of the State address, noting the participation of sisters Haylee and Emily Orellana in a nursing apprenticeship through Surry Community College and Surry Yadkin Works. The program allowed them to earn certified nursing credentials while completing high school, illustrating one approach the state is using to address healthcare staffing shortages.
With North Carolina projected to need an additional 17,500 nursing professionals by 2033 due to population growth, Governor Stein’s appeal underscores the urgency of expanding and sustaining the state’s healthcare workforce. He is advocating for additional funding to support this effort, including $10 million for Independent Colleges and Universities and $1 million for Area Health Education Centers, aiming to create more opportunities for individuals preparing to enter healthcare roles that serve the state’s communities.
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