Pennsylvania is facing an alarming nursing shortage, with average registered nurse vacancy rates of 14 percent and higher rates in rural areas, write Kymberlee Montgomery and Mary Ellen Smith Glasgow for Fast Company.

The shortage is affecting more than hospitals. Long-term care facilities, outpatient clinics, and home health agencies are all competing for a shrinking pool of nursing staff.

The shortage is driven by persistent issues in education, such as faculty shortages, workforce retention challenges often linked to burnout, and problems within healthcare delivery.

To help address this, Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro last month proposed a $5 million Nurse Shortage Assistance Program to cover tuition for nursing students who agree to work in Pennsylvania hospitals for three years after graduation.

The Pennsylvania General Assembly is currently reviewing HB 390, which proposes a $1,000 tax deduction for licensed nurses who take on the role of clinical preceptors.

Meanwhile, Pennsylvania hospitals are partnering with colleges and universities to grow their clinical training capacity and streamline pathways into nursing, as well as develop innovative education models, including hybrid and accelerated programs. They are also offering sign-on bonuses, loan forgiveness programs, housing stipends, and more to attract nurses.

Read more about the alarming nursing shortage facing Pennsylvania in Fast Company.