Health Workers at Risk: Why a New Policy Could Hurt Us All
A Policy Making Waves
The Department of Education is proposing a change that could have big consequences for health workers and the people they serve.
Redefining "Professional Degrees"
The policy would reclassify degrees in nursing, public health, social work, and other essential fields as "non-professional."
- Why does this matter? These degrees are crucial for keeping our health system running. Without them, we could face serious shortages of workers in these fields.
Impact on Students and Workers
Federal Loans at Risk The policy could make it harder for students to get federal loans for these degrees. This could mean fewer people entering these fields, especially from underrepresented communities.
Worsening Workforce Shortages Many health workers are already facing burnout and shortages. This policy could make things even worse.
Consequences for Public Health
- Delays in Care
- Preventable Crises
- Reduced Access to Essential Services
Call to Action
Policymakers need to act now to:
- Protect these degrees
- Reinstate federal loan eligibility
- Update the definition of a "professional degree"
We Are at a Pivotal Moment
We must ensure that health workers are trained, accessible, and valued. Downgrading these degrees is not the solution.
It's time to act.
