Abbott writes THECB to create task force addressing healthcare workforce shortages

AUSTIN (KXAN) — Gov. Greg Abbott is taking steps to make sure Texans can see a doctor or a nurse when they are needed.

On Thursday, Abbott sent a letter to the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board (THECB) asking them to help address healthcare workforce shortages in Texas, Abbott’s office said in a news release.

Abbott said he wants board to create a task force that would “provide opportunities and remove barriers” for those hoping to get into the field, the release said.

“Texas is the fastest growing state in the nation, and it is vital that we continue to expand our healthcare workforce to meet the needs of our citizens as we build a bigger, better Texas,” the statement said in part from the release.

The group is due to issue a report by October.

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