BOISE, Idaho (CBS2) — The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends one full-time nurse in every school. But a months-long Spotlight on America investigation uncovered a serious nationwide shortage in school nurses, a problem that’s even worse during a global pandemic. Now, some lawmakers are calling on Congress to step in and provide more funding to ensure students have access to healthcare in schools.
So what kind of shape is Idaho in when it comes to the number of school nurses? It's hard to say.
CBS2 asked the National Association of State School Nurse Consultants how many school nurses are in Idaho. The Association says it isn't exactly sure.
What it did say was that the Association currently has 115 members from Idaho and it's likely only a portion of the school nurses in the state. The state hasn't collected this data on school nurses, who are required to maintain a nurse certification.
CBS2 and Spotlight on America will continue to ask the state about the information on school nurses and as we get it, we'll share it with you on CBS2 News.