Incorporating International Nurses into the U.S. Healthcare System
Tom Konitzer
Tom is VP of Strategic Partnerships for Elite365. As a staffing executive with more than 20 years of experience in medical staffing, and 12 years devoted to international nursing, he brings a deep understanding of how to successfully recruit, staff, and manage registered nurses across a variety of settings, including acute and sub-acute care, long-term care, hospice, homecare and travel nursing.
The U.S. healthcare system faces a critical nursing shortage, and international nurses play a key role in bridging this gap. However, bringing them into the workforce successfully requires streamlined processes, strong support systems, and policies that promote success.
Here are effective ways to integrate international nurses into the U.S. healthcare system:
1. Simplify Licensing & Credentialing
Navigating the NCLEX-RN, CGFNS certification, and state licensure can be complex for foreign-educated nurses. Streamlining these processes and providing clear guidance, financial aid, and training programs can speed up their transition. Read how Elite365 maintains compliance and fosters trust between employers and healthcare workers throughout the credentialing process here.
2. Expand Visa & Immigration Pathways
Work with policymakers to increase visa availability (EB-3, H-1B, TN for Canadian/Mexican nurses) and reduce backlogs. A more efficient immigration process allows qualified nurses to fill urgent staffing shortages faster.
3. Partner with Ethical Recruitment Agencies
Collaboration with trusted international staffing firms ensure nurses are recruited fairly, provided proper support for relocation, and are not subject to exploitation. When hospital leadership is aligned with the international staffing agency’s process, everyone’s confidence in the in the journey grows and success is inevitable.
Does your international staffing company provide a step-by-step of what to expect in the international nurse onboarding process? Elite365 does! Read about it here!
4. Implement Strong Onboarding & Training Programs
International nurses need support adjusting to new clinical practices, technology, and patient care protocols. Structured orientation, hands-on training, and mentorship programs help ease the transition. Elite365 International nurses, regardless of where they are in the onboarding process, enjoy access to monthly educational webinars with relevant topics that help them prepare for working in the United States as a nurse. Led by Clinical Educator and Registered Nurse, Ijeoma Enweana, our monthly educational webinars bring hundreds of nurses from all over the world together with one common passion and goal. Read more about Elite365’s international team who helps onboard, retain, and educate foreign-educated nurses here!
5. Offer Cultural & Language Support
Cultural differences and language barriers can impact workplace integration. Offering language training, cultural competency programs, and peer support groups ensures international nurses feel welcomed and confident in their roles.
6. Support Career Growth & Retention
Encourage long-term commitment by providing leadership opportunities, continuing education, and pathways for career advancement. Investing in their growth strengthens retention and enhances workforce stability.
7. Promote Policies that Support International Nurses
Advocating for legislation that expands nurse visa caps, reduces licensing delays, and promotes ethical recruitment will ensure a sustainable pipeline of global nursing talent. By prioritizing a structured, ethical, and supportive approach, we can effectively integrate international nurses and build a strong, more diverse, and resilient healthcare system for all.
Ready to incorporate international nurses into your healthcare staffing program? Get started below!
