MA S1543

Establishes a nursing workforce center at the University of Massachusetts medical school in Worcester to address current and future nursing workforce needs and advance nursing science and practice

Executive director appointed by the UMass medical school dean, with oversight from the Executive Office of Health and Human Services

Center responsibilities include convening stakeholders, conducting research on best practices and patient outcomes, analyzing recruitment and retention data, and developing strategies to recruit and retain nurses

Required to foster collaboration among health care community members, promote workforce diversity, and serve as a clearinghouse for nursing practice and workforce data

Annual report required to the Secretary of Health and Human Services and relevant legislative committees, with the first report due within 1 year of the act's effective date