GNYHA's Workgroup on Workforce Issues met on December 7, 2000, to assist GNYHA in its implementation of its Action Plan to address shortages among registered nurses (RNs) and other health workers. Appointed by their respective CEOs, the workgroup members represent senior management from operations, nursing, and human resources at hospitals and continuing care facilities. GNYHA's Action Plan, which was approved by GNYHA's Board of Governors on November 2, 2000, includes initiatives with local school boards to both promote interest in nursing as a career and strengthen the science curriculum in preparation for undergraduate nursing courses. To this end, GNYHA has already met with personnel responsible for health careers and science curriculum, as well as guidance supervisors at the New York City Board of Education. In addition, GNYHA is now represented on the Board of Education's Health Careers Advisory Commission. As part of its Action Plan, GNYHA is also pursuing legislative solutions to the workforce shortage, and will develop innovative approaches to nurse education and practice. GNYHA is also hosting a series of leadership seminars for nurses in spring 2001, with a focus on issues that promote retention of nursing staff.

GNYHA Survey on Nurse Staffing: At the meeting on December 7, the workgroup made recommendations regarding a survey instrument that will be used by GNYHA to collect information on nurse staffing in hospitals. The survey will provide useful information for documenting members' needs and providing support for GNYHA's advocacy on this issue.

The GNYHA Board will be kept apprised of the workgroup's and GNYHA's activities to address workforce shortages.