DURING the recent visit of New York State Assembly Deputy Speaker Philip Ramos, the matter of employment opportunities in the United States for Pakistani nurses came up during official discussions. The plan to send qualified Pakistani nurses to the US is a commen- dable initiative, highlighting their potential to work alongside their international counterparts.

However, this initiative brings to light a significant challenge that is faced by Pakistani nurses: the lack of centres to conduct the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) for Registered Nurses (RN) and Practical Nurses (PN). Also missing from the scene is a valid credentialing agency in Pakistan. Currently, aspiring nurses have to travel to other countries to take these essential examinations, which incurs substantial costs and logistical difficulties.

To fully realise and optimise the benefit of this bilateral cooperation as well as to streamline the process for Pakistani nurses, it is imperative that the authorities take immediate steps to establish NCLEX examination centres within the country. Additionally, setting up a credible credentialing agency in the country will facilitate the smooth verification of qualifications, thereby expediting the employment process for our nurses abroad.

Furthermore, by establishing these facilities we will ease the burden on our healthcare professionals, and will also ensure a steady supply of qualified nurses to the US. As such, the move will foster stronger ties between the two countries. The relevant authorities should prioritise the matter and take swift action to support the nurses in their pursuit of international opportunities.

Ameet Kumar
Karachi

Published in Dawn, July 24th, 2024