Hundreds of healthcare providers from the Missouri Nurses Association (MONA) headed to the state capitol Wednesday to advocate for legislation to help address staffing shortages and other industry concerns.
Studies show nurses are the largest provider of healthcare services in Missouri, but they're in short supply, according to MONA executive director Jill Kliethermes.
The latest data from the Missouri Hospital Association indicate nurse vacancy rates reached just over 15% in 2023. Additionally, Kliethermes said of the 114 counties in Missouri, all but three are considered healthcare provider shortage areas.