WASHINGTON – A blue-ribbon commission formed to look at issues affecting the nurses of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) -- from recruitment and training to retention and pay -- held its inaugural meeting here recently.
"Nurses are a key component of the best health care for veterans," said Secretary of Veterans Affairs Anthony J. Principi. "This commission brings needed visibility and expertise to a wide range of professional issues affecting nurses."
The 12-member National Commission on VA Nurses was established by Public Law 107-135. With many VA nurses approaching retirement age, Congress created the commission, in part, to ensure VA had the financial and professional incentives to attract and retain a skilled work force.
"Based on the panel's recommendations, I will commit VA to actions improving recruitment of nurses, as well as the work force environment and future of the nursing profession within the department," Principi said.
Dr. Marilyn M. Pattillo of Austin, Texas, chairs the commission, which held its first meeting May 8.
"The diverse membership of the commission is an asset as we review the issues thoroughly and bring all interested parties to the table to voice their concerns," Pattillo said.
A report on the commission's findings and recommendations is due in May 2004.
