US requires nurses from Pakistan

The United States is experiencing a shortage of nurses and other healthcare professionals, creating new opportunities for Pakistani skilled nursing professionals to fill the gap.

A meeting on Wednesday discussed steps to facilitate this process, attended by Pakistani Ambassador Rizwan Saeed Sheikh, Consul General Aamer Ahmed Atozai, and officials from the New York State Assembly, including Deputy Speaker Phil Ramos and Chief of Staff Cristian Macario. Leaders from the American Pakistani Public Affairs Committee (APPAC), including Dr. Ijaz Ahmed and Dr. Pervez Iqbal, also participated.

A key development in the initiative is the planned opening of NCLEX examination centers in Pakistan, allowing nursing graduates to take the licensing exam domestically. The NCLEX is a computer-based test that certifies nurses for professional practice in the U.S. Deputy Speaker Ramos highlighted the increasing demand for skilled nurses and expressed interest in strengthening collaboration with Pakistan.

Ambassador Sheikh called this a major milestone, eliminating the need for Pakistani nurses to travel abroad for certification exams. He emphasized that this step reduces financial burdens and will encourage more healthcare professionals to join the workforce. The initiative also aims to streamline recruitment and immigration processes to efficiently place Pakistani nurses in the U.S.

APPAC leaders played a key role in launching this effort, including facilitating Deputy Speaker Ramos’ visit to Pakistan. Dr. Ijaz Ahmed called the initiative a major breakthrough in Pakistan-U.S. relations, while Dr. Pervez Iqbal stressed the growing demand for healthcare workers in North America.

Regular follow-up meetings will ensure smooth implementation, benefiting both the U.S. healthcare system and Pakistani professionals seeking global career opportunities.