Florida’s healthcare system is facing a critical challenge that will shape the future of patient care for years to come: a severe and growing shortage of nursing assistants. According to the Florida Center for Nursing’s (FCN)2022–2037 Workforce Projections Report, the state began 2022 with a small surplus of nursing assistants, but that balance is expected to shift dramatically within the next decade.
By 2037, Florida could face a shortfall of more than 44,000 full-time nursing assistants, making it one of the most significant workforce gaps in the state’s healthcare sector. This projected shortage not only highlights the urgent need for new healthcare professionals but also presents an incredible opportunity for those considering entering the field.
Florida Center for Nursing Report: Key Findings
The FCN’s data paints a clear picture of a workforce in transition. In 2022, Florida’s supply of nurse assistants exceeded demand by about 17,000 full-time equivalents (FTEs). An FTE is a standard way of measuring employment levels based on full-time work hours rather than the total number of individuals employed.
However, that surplus is expected to vanish – and then reverse – as the state’s population ages and more healthcare professionals retire.
By 2037, in Florida:
- Demand for nurse assistants is projected to increase by 39%.
- Supply is expected to decline by 14%.
- Overall adequacy of the nursing assistant workforce will drop from 115% in 2022 to just 71% in 2037.
The South and Southeast regions of the state are projected to experience the most significant shortages.
- In Southeast Florida, adequacy is expected to decline by 58 percentage points, falling from 129% in 2022 to 71% in 2037.
- In South Florida, supply is projected to decline by nearly 8,000 FTEs, while demand grows by more than 7,400 FTEs.
These trends underscore a growing imbalance between the need for patient care and the available workforce, especially in the areas surrounding Miami, Miramar, and Fort Lauderdale.
What’s Driving the Nursing Assistant Shortage in Florida
Several factors are fueling this widening gap between workforce supply and demand:
- An Aging Workforce: Many current nursing assistants are nearing retirement age, and new entrants are not keeping pace with the rate of exits.
- Population Growth and Aging: Florida continues to attract retirees and older adults, particularly in South Florida, which increases the demand for long-term and home-based care.
- Limited New Entrants: Fewer individuals are entering Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) training programs, often due to lack of awareness about how quickly one can begin a healthcare career.
These combined trends are creating an urgent need for well-trained nursing assistants to support hospitals, nursing homes, and home health agencies across the state.
The Impact on Patients and Florida’s Healthcare System
If left unaddressed, the nursing assistant shortage could have far-reaching effects on patient care and the overall healthcare system. Nursing assistants play an essential role in day-to-day patient support, helping with bathing, feeding, mobility, and vital sign monitoring.
A shrinking workforce means that:
- Patients could experience longer wait times for essential care in hospitals and long-term care facilities.
- Healthcare teams may face increased workloads, potentially affecting the quality and timeliness of care.
- Elderly and chronically ill patients in home health settings may struggle to access consistent support.
The shortage emphasizes just how critical nursing assistants are to maintaining compassionate, safe, and effective healthcare delivery across Florida.
Why This Is the Right Time to Become a Nursing Assistant in South Florida
While this workforce gap presents a major challenge, it also creates a powerful opportunity for people seeking meaningful, stable, and in-demand careers.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), national employment for nursing assistants and orderlies is projected to grow by 2% from 2024 to 2034, which is a modest rate. However, replacement needs are high, meaning many job openings will arise as current workers retire or leave the field, ensuring steady hiring nationwide.
In Florida, the picture is even more promising: regional demand will far outpace national averages, particularly in South and Southeast Florida.
For anyone looking to start a healthcare career, becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) is one of the fastest and most accessible entry points. The role provides immediate experience in patient care and serves as a valuable stepping stone toward more advanced nursing positions, such as Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) or Registered Nurse (RN).
Key advantages of pursuing a nursing assistant career include:
- Rapid entry into the workforce: FVI’s Nursing Assistant / Home Health Aide program can be completed in just 9 weeks, including classroom instruction and hands-on externship experience.
- Strong job stability: Consistent hiring across hospitals, assisted living facilities, and home healthcare organizations.
- Pathways for career growth: CNAs can advance their education and move into higher-level nursing programs.
- Meaningful work: The chance to make a difference in patients’ lives every single day.
With the growing demand across South Florida, now is the perfect time to start your journey with a trusted nursing assistant school in South Florida.
How FVI’s HHA/Nursing Assistant Program in Miami & Miramar Can Help
At FVI School of Nursing and Technology, we understand that launching a healthcare career requires the right mix of education, guidance, and support. Our Nursing Assistant / Home Health Aide program is 9 instructional weeks (180 clock hours) and prepares students with the essential skills and confidence to pursue entry-level healthcare opportunities. Upon successful completion of the program, graduates are eligible to apply for the Florida Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) exam.
Students train in realistic simulation and skills labs, guided by experienced instructors who are deeply committed to student success. FVI’s supportive, student-centered approach ensures that you’re prepared to make an impact from day one.
Additional highlights include:
- Financial aid available to those who qualify.
- Job placement assistance to help graduates transition into the workforce.
- Convenient locations at our Miami and Miramar campuses.
- Programs approved by the Florida Board of Nursing and accredited by the Council on Occupational Education (COE).
If you’ve been thinking about starting a rewarding career in healthcare, the time is now. Learn more about FVI’s nursing assistant school in Miramar and nursing assistant school in Miami, or contact us today to speak with our admissions team.
