Strengthen our health workforce

If you have friends or family members who have waited weeks to see their doctor or driven hours to see a specialist, you know how urgently we need a stronger health care workforce, especially in rural America and states like Iowa. The shortage of care providers is not an abstract policy issue; it affects real people who require regular or critical care.

From medical assistants and patient care technicians to phlebotomists and pharmacy technicians, allied health professionals form the backbone of patient care. They keep clinics operational, support our hospitals, and help patients maintain health. However, Iowa continues to experience persistent health care workforce shortages. This is making it more difficult for families to access the care they need.

Training for these in-demand jobs doesn’t require a four-year degree. Many career and technical education (CTE) programs offer courses and certification of the skills necessary, setting students up for a promising career and filling a vital workforce need. However, the funding for CTE and Job Corps training programs is at risk of being cut by Congress.

Cutting or underfunding these programs would be a critical mistake that would only serve to widen existing gaps in access to care. That’s why I urge Rep. Ashley Hinson and her colleagues in Washington to fully preserve and fund CTE and Job Corps programs at current funding levels. Rep. Hinson has long championed Iowa’s health care needs, and now she has another opportunity to ensure our state’s providers and patients are not left behind.

Kurt Burkum

Solon