(WASHINGTON, DC) – Congressman Dennis Moore (Third District-KS) today announced the University of Kansas Medical Center has been awarded $233,166 in federal funding to expand the nation’s supply of qualified nurses and promote diversity in the nursing profession.

“It is imperative to address nursing shortages to ensure Kansas families continue to have access to high-quality health care,” Moore said. “The dedication KU Medical Center has shown toward this goal is commendable. This federal investment will enhance their efforts to meet future demands for the essential health care services nurses provide.”

According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, the nursing shortage is expected to grow to 29 percent by 2020, compared to a 6 percent shortage in 2000.

“Staffing shortages are increasing and recruiting new registered nurses is becoming progressively more difficult for many reasons,” Moore said. “The current shortage will be compounded by the lack of young people entering the nursing profession, the rapid aging of the nursing workforce, and the impending health needs of the baby boom generation.”

The Nurse Education, Practice & Retention Program awarded grants to 62 universities and health care institutions which have demonstrated a strong dedication to the improvement of the quality of those in the nursing profession. HHS oversees the nursing program.

Moore has confronted the problem of nursing shortages as a member of the Congressional Nursing Caucus. He is provided with a unique insight into the issue by his wife Stephene, a registered nurse. Moore has supported increased funding for nursing programs by voting for the Nurse Reinvestment Act of 2002.

“Nurses provide a great service for the health of our community and our nation,” Moore said. “Expanding the supply of quality nurses is a priority worthy of federal investment, and I’m pleased KU Medical Center is a leader in this effort.”