SENATOR Christopher “Bong” Go backed the Department of Health’s proposal to tap nursing graduates who fell just short of passing the Philippine Nursing Licensure Exam to augment the workforce in the health sector.

However, he stressed that the tasks given to them should be commensurate to their abilities so as not to endanger patients.

“Sang-ayon naman ako sa rekomendasyon na mabigyan ng temporary license ang iilang mga nursing graduates kahit hindi sila technically nakapasa pa ng board exams,” Go said.

“Makakadagdag ito sa ating healthcare workforce, mabibigyan sila ng trabaho, at mas rarami ang pwedeng rumesponde sa pangangailangang pangkalusugan ng mga Pilipino,” he added.

The senator urged the Department of Health to thoroughly study the proposal, taking into account existing laws and regulations that uphold professional standards and safeguard the lives, safety, and well-being of the people.

“This is a viable temporary solution to meet the country’s health needs. But as Chair of the Senate Committee on Health, our goal must be to continue improving medical education in the country to ensure enough number of qualified healthcare professionals,” Go said.

The senator filed Senate Bill 191 or the Advanced Nursing Education bill, which aims to provide greater opportunities for nurses by opening up leadership roles, specialization in specific practice areas, and recognition in the fields of research and advanced nursing education.