Collaboration is key to addressing Texas nursing shortage
In Texas, the demand for full-time registered nurses is rapidly exceeding supply. This shortage impacts patient satisfaction, the quality of care and nurse well-being. In response, the University of Texas System created the UT System Workforce/Nursing Collaborative through which UT institutions are collectively working to educate, train and retain quality nurses, and to improve workplace environments to better care for our state’s rapidly growing population.
Zain Kazmi, UT System associate vice chancellor and chief digital and analytics officer in health affairs, discusses how the UT System is committed to finding solutions.
Q: What initiatives has the Workforce/Nursing Collaborative produced so far?
Zain Kazmi: The Workforce/Nursing Collaborative focuses on creating innovative nursing practices to enhance efficiencies and decrease burnout.
We’re creating nursing pipelines through UT institutions to bolster recruitment and improving the professional development of nurses to address factors that often lead to career change. We’re also collaborating with the Texas Legislature, the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board and the Texas Board of Nursing to develop more supportive work environments through initiatives such as the Faculty Burnout Working Group and Clinician Wellness group.
And, quite simply, we’re emphasizing the importance of recognizing the value and work of nurses.
Q: How is technology being leveraged to enhance productivity and support nurses in their roles?
Kazmi: We are exploring innovations such as virtual nursing opportunities, advanced informatics systems, and AI applications in health care. For instance, the Workforce/Nursing Collaborative is looking into virtual nursing models and leveraging better data management. This can help reduce the workload on nurses, allowing them to focus more on patient care and improve overall job satisfaction. Additionally, we aim to leverage our size and resources to implement shared contracting and staff pooling, which can optimize resource allocation across our institutions.
Q: Are you optimistic that these efforts will bolster the nursing profession?
Kazmi:. I am. With the Texas Legislature's support, including the recent increase in funding for the Texas Nursing Shortage Reduction Program to $46.8 million, is crucial in backing these efforts. By working collaboratively and utilizing innovative solutions, the UT System is committed to overcoming the nursing shortage and ensuring quality health care for all Texans.
