Idaho Hospitals are comprised of over 20,000 employees across the state. RNs make up approximately 27.7 percent of hospital employees.

With regards to vacancy rates the top position of concern for hospitals statewide is Staff RN.

As of September 2006, hospitals had approximately 383 vacant nursing positions statewide. The average rate has been increasing over the past few years. The average nursing vacancy rate in hospitals across the nation is 10%.

The vacancy rate of 17% for ICU Nurses in Southwest Idaho is of particular concern. Hospital diversions can be an issue and have been with ICU vacancy rates at this high level.

Age of current employees in shortage positions is a factor (currently 40 to 50 years). As they come close to retirement by 2020, Idaho’s population is projected to grow 29%, while the population age 65 and over is projected to grow 117%, according to HRSA data. The complexity of an increasing population combined with the chronic and complex issues of an aging population present extreme challenges, that will only continue to put a strain on our current shortage.