Utah’s healthcare system faces a crisis: over half of our nurses are considering leaving due to unsafe staffing, stress and inability to deliver quality care. I am writing in response to Lois M. Collins’ article “Utah primary care, other shortages could stifle well-being, spark public health crisis.”
Understaffed units drastically increase burnout and reduce patient safety. Utah is growing rapidly, and so is the cost of living, yet nurse wages have not kept pace, pushing many to leave the profession or relocate.
However, there is hope. Legislation allowing Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs) to serve as primary care practitioners expands access, particularly in underserved areas, and helps address the doctor shortage. Still, Utah needs more residencies and clinical placements for family practitioners and APRN students. As an online FNP student in an out-of-state program, I have found securing local clinical placement nearly impossible. Funding support for APRN student placements could help train more primary care providers.
Safe staffing ratios, competitive wages and support programs for nurses in underserved areas could alleviate the shortage. Ensuring a robust nursing workforce is essential for maintaining quality healthcare in Utah. I hope this letter serves as a call to action for our community and leaders.
Nicole Smith, RN
Syracuse