Virtual Panel: Addressing the nursing care shortage in Texas

As the world recovers from the COVID-19 pandemic, the health care industry is still feeling its immense effects, particularly as it grapples with a changing — and dwindling — workforce. According to the Texas Workforce Commission, 23,000 registered nursing positions remain unfilled, leaving many patients in need without care options, and turnover rates remain high as many face burnout or new opportunities. As the state’s population continues to grow, these challenges will only get worse without collaborative action between health care leaders and state officials to ensure the Texas health care system can meet the needs of the future of Texas.

Hosted by Bob Kalin, VP of long term care options, Molina Healthcare of Texas, the event kicked-off with a joint keynote presentation by Maureen Milligan, president and CEO, Teaching Hospitals of Texas and Jackie Brock, chief nurse executive and executive vice president, Harris Health System.

Elena Rivera of KERA News, moderated the panel discussion covering a wide variety of topics:

• Health care worker shortages following the pandemic and Texas’ population influx
• Impacts on patients, especially those in rural or underserved areas
• Innovations in care options
• Partnerships with state agencies and the health care industry to meet patient needs
• The future of the health care staffing landscape

Panel speakers included:

• Rachel Hammon, executive director, Texas Association of Home Care & Hospice
• Antonio Johnson, VP of people engagement, Cantex Continuing Care Network
• Nate Moore, chief operating officer, TCARE
• Dan Pollock, CEO, Advantis Medical