Quote Originally Posted by Dfektiv View Post
As an new LPN I don't like it but it is next to impossible to find Acute care work.... but I was fortunate enough to get into a Acute Rehab hospital straight out of school (largely due to the years I worked there as a CNA) but was informed I was the LAST LPN they were hiring... only RN's at that point and that I had better have plans to start work on my RN. The downside is the area is practically a Nurse Mill with 4 schools putting out rounds of MA's, LPN's, and RN's as often as twice a year.... RN's have trouble finding work locally... over half my graduating class of 26 from 8 months ago still isn't working... I am only 1 of 2 with a fulltime position... so they know they can treat you however they want cause your not going anywhere without a Major relocation.
While it is true that utilization of LVN/LPN at the hospital level has gone down for years..... The simple truth about healthcare reform is that the capitated rates Hospitals and physicians receive from government funding are going to be cut severely up to 50% in some areas of medicine. Hospital's faced with a much tighter bottom line will cut all but the most essential staff. Some hospital associations are even lobbying for the creation of a medication technician. This position used in many single payor systems is essentially a medical assistant who passes medication. Much like a pharmacy tech in the psych hospital. RN will also become obsolete as hospitals figure out the NP can do so much more.

The fact of the matter is that healthcare reform will result in fewer hospitals, fewer physicians, and substandard nursing care all because monetary cuts will force good physicians and nurses out of the industry. I am already looking into alternative business opportunities.

Also noted in the the news this week Health Insurance companies are expected to raise their rates anywhere from 10 to 30% in 2012. Why because they know that all Americans will be required to buy health insurance or face criminal penalties so they have the average American by the short hairs. So much for affordable accessable healthcare.

Time to start hoping for change

Peace and Namaste

Hppy