By: TAHP | Monday, June 10, 2024

Announcement: Governor Greg Abbott and the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board (THECB) announced the inaugural members of the Healthcare Workforce Task Force. TAHP CEO, Jamie Dudensing, was selected as one of the inaugural members.

The big picture: In April, Governor Greg Abbott sent a letter to THECB to create a task force to address health care workforce shortages in order to meet the demands of our growing state and provide students with the tools they need to succeed.

• “The State of Texas has invested millions in job training grants to help prepare students for high-demand careers, such as nursing, to meet the healthcare needs of our state, but we must do more,” Abbott wrote.

Why it matters: State officials project a shortage of over 10,000 physicians and nearly 60,000 registered nurses in the next decade. Without enough health care professionals, Texas patients experience longer wait times, reduced access to preventive care, and increased health disparities, particularly in rural areas.

By the numbers:

• Provider Shortage: Texas ranks 47th in the nation for the number of primary care physicians per 100,000 residents .
• Rural Impact: 32 counties in Texas lack a single primary care physician.

Legislative efforts: The Texas Legislature has invested significant funds to grow the health care workforce, but continued investment is necessary to combat the severe shortage of physicians, nurses, and other health care professionals. Growing the health care workforce in Texas is a top priority for the Texas Association of Health Plans.

As an advocate for public and private health plans, Jamie is dedicated to improving access and affordability to quality health care for all Texans.

What she’s saying: “As a former labor and delivery nurse, I understand the importance of expanding health care education and providing students with the tools they need to succeed,” said TAHP CEO, Jamie Dudensing. “It’s an honor to be selected by Governor Abbott to join the Healthcare Workforce Task Force as an inaugural member. Together, we will work towards strengthening Texas’ health care workforce.”

What’s next: The Healthcare Workforce Task Force and advisory members will meet monthly and gather insights from state agency experts and additional health care stakeholders throughout Texas. The task force will issue a final report on October 1, 2024.