1,3 milioni di euro? Una goccia nel mare

The agreement signed between the European Commission and the WHO to tackle the shortage of nurses in Europe seems like a step forward, but on closer analysis it turns out to be an insufficient palliative.

1.3 million euros allocated to help EU member states for a period of 30/36 months, for such a complex and deep-rooted problem, is just a drop in the ocean compared to the real needs of national health systems.

What does the agreement provide for and why is it not enough?

The agreement aims to fund recruitment projects, mentoring programs and impact assessments on the nursing workforce. These are commendable initiatives, in theory, but they do not address the heart of the problem: nurses' salaries and working conditions.

Salaries too low, nurses are underpaid and undervalued, especially in Italy. A significant increase in salaries would be the first concrete step to make the profession more attractive and retain professionals in their countries.

Excessive workloads, nurses are often forced to work in overburdened conditions, with grueling shifts and staff shortages. This leads to burnout and to seeking better opportunities abroad.

Lack of recognition, the nursing profession (and not even other health professions, to be honest) is not valued as it should be. Nurses are the backbone of health systems, but often feel undervalued and little considered.

The numbers speak for themselves, the shortage of nurses is a widespread problem throughout Europe, with great disparity between different countries. In Italy, for example, the level of work-related stress for nurses is at 61%, double the EU average, and according to a survey by Nursing Up Emilia Romagna, 98.2% of the colleagues interviewed, about 3000, are not satisfied with their salary, considering it embarrassing.

To effectively address the shortage of nurses, a multifaceted approach is needed that includes:

• Salaries at the OECD average

• More humane working conditions.

• Recognition of the profession as strenuous

• Enhancement of the profession and training

• Exclusivity allowance (as already happens for doctors)

• Free mobility

• Financial support for off-site students

• Single national contract, no more A and B series nurses

The funds allocated by the EU are a drop in the ocean compared to the resources needed to solve the problem of the shortage of nurses. It is essential to invest massively in enhancing the nursing profession and improving working conditions. Only in this way can we attract and retain the professionals we need. Less war and more healthcare.