Healthcare Reform is Changing Demand for Pediatric Nursing
According to the U.S. Census, there were more than eight million children living in the United States without health insurance coverage in 2009. Many advocates of health care reform argue that American children are the most important beneficiaries of healthcare reform. But what exactly is it that makes health care reform beneficial to children, and how does that translate to other aspects of the healthcare industry, such as pediatric nursing?
Under Obama’s healthcare reform, children are, by law, covered by quality, affordable healthcare. Many experts predict that healthcare reform will increase the demand for pediatric nursing jobs around the country. With so many more insured children comes a larger need for pediatric care services, meaning an increased demand pediatric nursing jobs. The healthcare reform package also states specific provisions involving children, including the prohibition of denial of coverage for children with pre-existing conditions.
Not only are there provisions stating that children cannot be denied coverage for preexisting health conditions, but there is no risk of coverage ceasing until at least 2015. The healthcare reform bill also extends federal funding for the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) until September 30, 2015. This implies a greater emphasis on pediatric care in the United States and, as a result, more jobs in pediatric nursing. Starting in 2014, pediatric insurance packages have also extended to include oral and vision services. Previous health insurance plans for children were not required to include these services.
Children aren’t the only dependents to benefit from the provisions in the new healthcare reform bill. Dependent coverage has been extended to the age of 26. This means that “children” up to the age of 26 may be carried on their parents’ health insurance plans.
Here is where an increase of pediatric nursing jobs comes in. Health care reform will ensure that there are enough pediatricians, pediatric nurse practitioners, pediatric specialists, and pediatric oral health professionals to address the medical needs of children. Therefore, the pediatric nursing workforce will be expanded as a result to ensure that there are enough pediatric nursing jobs to handle the increase in patients as a result of the healthcare reform bill. It is inevitable that healthcare reform will result in more and more patients seeking healthcare, many for the first time in their lives.
With more and more patients comes a demand for more and more pediatric nursing jobs. The question is whether the demand for more pediatric nursing jobs will be met or if the increased demand will result in the healthcare system coming to a standstill.
If you are qualified for and seeking pediatric nursing jobs in Houston or are searching for qualified professional nursing staff to fill your job vacancies, call Pulse Staffing at (800) 383-1384. We provide nurse and allied health staffing throughout the Southeast Texas with dependable, qualified professionals. Visit us online at: http://www.pulsestaffing.com/
Processing your request, Please wait....
