news

Representatives Debbie Dingell (MI-06), Susan Wild (PA-07), and Jen Kiggans (VA-03), are introducing a resolution designating March 18, 2024, as the inaugural ‘‘Health Workforce Well-Being Day of Awareness.” The resolution recognizes the seriousness of widespread health care worker burnout in the United States that has been exacerbated in recent years, and the increased risk for depression and suicide among health care workers. 
 
“Health care professionals dedicate their lives to serving their patients, often at the expense of their own physical and emotional wellbeing. This was especially true throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, when on top of putting themselves in physical danger and working days on end while understaffed and under resourced, many health care workers were feeling isolated and dealing with mental health challenges,” Dingell said. “It’s important that we continue to reduce the stigma around mental health treatment, and ensure the resources are readily available for those who need them as we continue to see shortages throughout our health care system. I’m proud to recognize Health Workforce Well-Being Day of Awareness and will continue to prioritize doctors, nurses, and all our health care workers, who have some of the hardest jobs around.” 
 
“Our health care heroes have bravely stepped up time and time again, guiding our country through challenges and helping us recover from a once-in-a-lifetime pandemic. While they perform these essential services, frontline workers are often left to deal with the resulting trauma, stress and burnout on their own,” Wild said.  “It’s why we fought hard for the Lorna Breen Act, to provide mental health support and resources to the dedicated professionals who make up our health care system, and why Health Workforce Well-Being Day of Awareness will help highlight the support available to anyone in the industry who struggles with their mental health.”  
 
“As a Nurse Practitioner, I know how rewarding it can be caring for patients and their families, but I also understand the toll it can take on providers,” said Kiggans. “With shortages throughout our healthcare system, it is more important than ever to ensure our medical professionals have the support they need to prevent burnout and properly care for themselves and their patients. As the only geriatric nurse practitioner in Congress, I am proud to co-lead this resolution to raise awareness about the wellbeing of our healthcare workforce and advocate for them to receive the support they deserve.” 
 
The resolution comes after Dingell, Wild, and Kiggans, along with House and Senate colleagues introduced the Dr. Lorna Breen Health Care Provider Protection Reauthorization Act to reduce and prevent suicide, burnout, and mental and behavioral health conditions among health care professionals.
 
View the full text of the resolution here.