The North Dakota Department of Health (NDDoH) and statewide healthcare providers are encouraging volunteers and those with healthcare experience to join healthcare staff during this time of staffing need. unprecedented.

“Like other health systems nationwide, Sanford Health is experiencing a historic workforce shortage, not only in nursing but in other areas of patient and non-clinical care,” said Theresa Larson, vice president of nursing and clinical services at Sanford Health in Fargo. “Today we are seeing an increase in the number of patients seeking health care. In addition to treating COVID-19 patients, our hospitals are at full capacity. “

“CHI St. Alexius Health would welcome additional mission-oriented team members who are able to provide support to our frontline care team staff during various hours, shifts and roles in an effort to expand our services and meet the growing needs of our community and state, ”said Raumi Kudrna, vice president of patient care services at CHI St. Alexius Health in Bismarck.

To help expand the healthcare workforce, NDDoH has reinstated its Temporary Nursing Assistant registration process, and the North Dakota State Board of Respiratory Care is offering a six-month temporary respiratory therapist license to individuals. currently licensed in good standing in another state.

“North Dakota is in dire need of additional staff in our healthcare facilities,” said Nizar Wehbi, MD, public health official. “Staff shortages can negatively affect patient care and limit the capacity of hospitals and health facilities. We ask for volunteers and anyone with health care experience to join or re-enter the workforce. “

Please contact the human resources department at your local hospital or health facility to see how you can help. Shift lengths and schedules can be very flexible. Even if you are only available 4-8 hours per week, consider calling and helping during this time of urgent need for staff.

For more information on registering NDDoH Temporary Nursing Assistants, please visit https://services.ndnar.org/emergency/

To learn more about the ND State Board of Respiratory Care’s Temporary Respiratory Therapist Licensing, please visit https://www.ndsbrc.com/article.asp?id=10