PAHO Urges Expansion of Nursing Roles to Strengthen Health Systems in the Americas The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) has called on countries across the Americas to prioritize the expansion of advanced practice nursing as a critical strategy to enhance health systems, improve access to care, and align with the goals of universal health coverage. This initiative coincides with International Nurses Day on May 12, emphasizing the vital role nurses play in addressing public health challenges. Nurses are the largest group within the health workforce in the Americas, with nearly 7.4 million professionals contributing to health promotion, disease prevention, and the management of chronic conditions. They serve as frontline workers, particularly in rural and remote areas where physician shortages create gaps in care. PAHO Director Dr. Jarbas Barbosa highlighted that advancing the role of nursing—through specialized training, autonomy, and integration into primary health care—can significantly improve the quality, sustainability, and accessibility of health services. Advanced practice nurses, who have undergone specialized training, are equipped to take on expanded clinical responsibilities. These include assessing, diagnosing, treating, and monitoring patients and communities independently. Globally, over 100 countries have adopted these roles, with Canada and the United States already implementing robust models. In the Americas, several Latin American and Caribbean nations are developing regulatory frameworks, training programs, and innovative care models to support advanced practice nursing.#international_nurses_day #pan_american_health_organization #dr_jarbas_barbosa #advanced_practice_nursing #universal_health_coverage
