Nursing

To be a catalyst, helping identify and resolve issues that contribute to the nursing shortage in Tennessee.

Nursing Shortage

There is a nursing shortage in Tennessee's hospitals and it's projected to get worse. It's a slow motion crisis that is just now reaching the critical stage. To make matters worse, the smartest people in the profession have determined that we cannot train enough nurses to meet the demand.


TCWD's parent organization, the Tennessee Hospital Association, is addressing the nursing shortage through programs including the THA Nurse Residency Program and THA Student Nurse Preceptor Incentive. Learn more below.

Programs & Incentives

THA offers a variety of programs and incentives designed to attract and retain healthcare providers in Tennessee’s rural and underserved areas. From placement assistance and community matching to financial support and incentive programs, we help make rural practice both rewarding and sustainable. Our goal is to ensure that every community has access to the quality care it deserves while supporting physicians in building lasting, fulfilling careers.

  • THA Nurse Residency Program

    The THA Nurse Residency Program will provide education and professional development to new graduate nurses at the state level with an experienced clinical education specialist and program coordinator.

    Learn More

  • THA Student Nurse Preceptor Incentive

    THA is excited to launch a pilot program to support nurse preceptors in the state of Tennessee. Volunteer with your employer to grow the next generation of nurses and receive a monetary incentive for your time and effort.

    Learn More

Obstacles That Nurses Face

Educational Obstacles

Low numbers of faculty


Existing faculty approaching retirement


Inadequate faculty compensation compared to clinical nurses


No clear educational path to academia from nursing schools

Training Obstacles

Lack of clinical instruction sites


Insufficient simulation facilities

Workplace Obstacles

Poor work-life balance


Generational differences


Compassion fatigue

Contact Us

Questions? Email us at TCWD@tha.com to learn more!