NEW YORK: Progress has been reported on the move to send skilled nursing professionals from Pakistan to the United States following an online discussion between representatives from the Pakistani embassy in Washington, the New York Consulate General, the New York State Assembly, and the American Pakistani Public Affairs Committee (APPAC), officials said.
The US faces a shortage of nurses and other healthcare workers, and Pakistani professionals are being considered to help fill that gap.
Tuesday’s meeting was attended by Pakistani Ambassador Rizwan Saeed Sheikh, Consul General Aamer Ahmed Atozai, and the Community Welfare Attaché at the New York Consulate.
From the New York State Assembly, Deputy Speaker Phil Ramos and Chief of Staff Cristian Macario participated, along with APPAC Chairman Dr. Ijaz Ahmed and APPAC President Dr. Pervez Iqbal.
Deputy Speaker Ramos acknowledged the importance of the recent opening of NCLEX examination centers in Pakistan.
NCLEX is a computer-based test that determines whether a nursing student is ready for professional practice.
He highlighted the growing demand for skilled healthcare professionals in the US and expressed interest in collaborating with Pakistan to meet this need.
Ambassador Sheikh termed this development a significant milestone, as it eliminates the need for Pakistani nursing professionals to travel abroad for the exam. He emphasized that this step reduces financial burdens and encourages greater participation.
The Ambassador also stressed the importance of developing a demand-supply mechanism aligned with local requirements while streamlining the recruitment and immigration process for successful applicants.
Furthermore, APPAC leaders highlighted their crucial role in initiating this collaboration, including facilitating the deputy speaker’s visit to Pakistan. They emphasized that the shortage of healthcare professionals in the US, particularly in the nursing sector, presents a valuable opportunity for Pakistani professionals.
It was agreed that representatives from each party would hold regular follow-up meetings to ensure smooth progress in this initiative.
Dr. Ijaz Ahmad praised APPAC’s collective efforts, calling this achievement a milestone in Pakistan-US relations.
APPAC’s new President, Dr. Pervez Iqbal, underscored the growing demand for healthcare professionals in North America. He noted that this initiative presents Pakistan with a major opportunity to train and export its medical workforce, benefiting both the US healthcare system and Pakistani families.
This development marks a new chapter in Pakistan’s contribution to the global medical community while highlighting the impact of APPAC’s vision and collaborative efforts.
