Progress has been made in efforts to send skilled nursing professionals from Pakistan to the U.S., as discussed in a recent virtual meeting involving officials from the Pakistani embassy in Washington, the New York Consulate General, the New York State Assembly, and the American Pakistani Public Affairs Committee (APPAC), according to officials.
With the U.S. facing a shortage of nurses and healthcare workers, the initiative seeks to bring in qualified professionals from Pakistan to help address the gap.
The meeting, held on Tuesday, was attended by Pakistani Ambassador Rizwan Saeed Sheikh, Consul General Aamer Ahmed Atozai, and the Community Welfare Attaché at the New York Consulate. Representing the New York State Assembly, Deputy Speaker Phil Ramos and Chief of Staff Cristian Macario took part, alongside APPAC Chairman Dr. Ijaz Ahmed and President Dr. Pervez Iqbal.
Deputy Speaker Ramos highlighted the importance of establishing NCLEX examination centers in Pakistan, allowing nursing students to take the licensing test domestically. The NCLEX, a computer-based exam, determines a nursing graduate’s readiness to practice professionally. He emphasized the growing demand for qualified healthcare professionals in the U.S. and expressed interest in further collaboration with Pakistan to address workforce shortages.
Ambassador Sheikh described the development as a significant milestone, as it removes the need for Pakistani nurses to travel abroad for certification exams, reducing financial strain and encouraging greater participation. He also underscored the importance of aligning recruitment and immigration processes with U.S. healthcare needs to ensure an efficient supply of skilled nurses.
APPAC leaders detailed their role in initiating this collaboration, including facilitating Deputy Speaker Ramos’ visit to Pakistan. They noted that the shortage of healthcare workers in the U.S., especially in nursing, presents a valuable opportunity for Pakistani professionals.
All parties agreed to hold regular follow-up meetings to ensure smooth implementation of the initiative.