A Growing Challenge: Registered Nurse Shortages in the US
Across the United States, healthcare systems face a growing challenge: there are not enough registered nurses (RNs) to meet patient needs. While nursing has long been considered a stable and rewarding career, projections from the National Center for Health Workforce Analysis (NCHWA) predict an RN shortage through at least 2038 in many areas, especially in the southern states. (To see the RN shortage data for each state, select registered nurses from the NCHWA Occupation dropdown.)Several factors are contributing to this shortage, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. America’s population is aging, which means more people need ongoing medical care. At the same time, many experienced nurses are approaching retirement. For students considering a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), these trends highlight both the importance of the profession and the strong need for skilled nurses. In this post, we look at states that may face some of the highest shortages of registered nurses in the coming years.5 US States Facing Serious RN Shortages
RN Shortage in Texas
Texas continues to experience rapid population growth, especially in major metropolitan areas. As healthcare needs increase across hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, and community health settings, the need for qualified nurses is expected to grow alongside it. Exact numbers for RN shortages in Texas vary, but federal and state resources agree that the shortage will continue. The Texas Center for Nursing Workforce Studies has projections that reach 2036, when they expect a 16% shortage of 56,000 RNs. National data analysts from the NCHWA are more optimistic, but still project a shortage of around 20,000 RNs for that same year.RN Shortage in North Carolina
With its own growing population and demand for healthcare services, North Carolina also has significant nursing workforce challenges ahead. In fact, the NCHWA predicts that North Carolina will have the second largest RN shortage in the US in 2038, with a deficit of 25,710 nurses. This number is 20% below what the state is expected to need. According to NC Nursecast, hospitals may see some of the largest registered nurse shortages in NC. In addition, nursing homes, assisted living facilities, home health organizations, and hospice providers are also projected to face staffing gaps.RN Shortage in Georgia
Georgia is another state facing serious pressure on the nursing workforce. The NCHWA predicts an RN shortage in Georgia of 20%, or just over 25,000 RNs by 2038. Population growth, an aging workforce, and increasing healthcare needs among older adults are all contributing to demand for more nurses throughout Georgia.RN Shortage in South Carolina
According to NCHWA data, the current shortage of RNs in South Carolina is around 21%. By 2038, the RN shortage is expected to improve to only 12%, but that is still a shortage of over 7,000 RNs. Leaders in South Carolina are already working to address workforce gaps through scholarship programs, healthcare partnerships, and nursing education initiatives. However, demand for nurses may still continue to outpace the number of available professionals.RN Shortage in Virginia
Virginia’s nursing workforce outlook also reflects continued demand for registered nurses, especially in rural and underserved areas. Currently, the NCHWA reports a 30% shortage of RNs in Virginia. The good news is that the shortage does seem to be on the decline. By 2038, they anticipate that Virginia will have around 92% of the RNs needed. Still, that leaves a shortage of 8%, or around 8,000 open RN positions in the healthcare system.Meeting the Need Through Nursing Education
Both educating nurses and supporting them on the job are important parts of addressing the RN shortage. BSN programs are designed to help prepare future nurses with both clinical knowledge and critical thinking skills needed to care for diverse patient populations. Through classroom instruction, simulation experiences, and clinical training, BSN graduates develop the competencies needed to enter today’s healthcare workforce. BSN-prepared nurses often receive education in:
- Evidence-based practice
- Leadership and communication
- Population health
- Patient safety and quality improvement
- Healthcare technology and informatics
- Community and public health nursing
If you’re interested in making a difference while pursuing a career with strong long-term demand, nursing continues to offer opportunities for growth, impact, and professional advancement. As healthcare employers face ongoing workforce shortages, new RNs can have an opportunity to make a huge impact, especially in rural underserved communities.
To learn more about starting your nursing career, visit our website to read about South University’s BSN program or request information to speak with our Admissions team!
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Graduates are required to pass the national certification exam and obtain a state license in order to work in the field. (Exam names vary by program.) Please refer to the State Professional Licensure Determination and National Certification/Licensure section of the University catalog for additional information. South University cannot guarantee each graduate will pass the required licensure examinations. South University does not promise or guarantee licensure, employment, or salary amounts.
Programs, including all Clinical/Medical programs, have a required in-person, practicum, or externship. We cannot guarantee flexibility in these components of the program.
