International clinicians provide experience as new graduates join the workforce
Kristin Dahl • April 2, 2026
International clinicians provide experience as new graduates join the workforce
CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The U.S. nursing workforce is undergoing significant change as experienced nurses retire and early-career turnover remains high. For hospitals and healthcare systems, maintaining the clinical experience needed to support patient care remains a growing challenge. WorldWide HealthStaff Solutions (WWHS), a Medical Solutions company, is helping hospitals address these challenges by connecting them with experienced international clinicians prepared to support high-need units.
Studies show nearly one-quarter of newly licensed nurses leave their first position within a year, while healthcare leaders continue to report shortages in units that require more seasoned clinical experience.
These staffing gaps are especially common in medical-surgical, skilled nursing, rehabilitation, long-term care, telemetry and stepdown units, where patient acuity and complex care needs often require nurses with strong clinical backgrounds.
“New graduates are an essential part of the future nursing workforce, but healthcare organizations also need experienced clinicians who can step into demanding care environments and support care teams immediately,” said Patti Artley, DNP, RN, NEA-BC, president of WorldWide HealthStaff Solutions. “Internationally educated nurses bring valuable clinical experience and a commitment to long-term employment that helps healthcare organizations maintain stability while supporting patient care.”
WorldWide HealthStaff Solutions has helped healthcare organizations hire international nurses and healthcare professionals since 1998, supporting hospitals, nursing homes, rehabilitation centers and outpatient clinics nationwide.
In 2025, WWHS hired more than 600 registered nurses for rural healthcare facilities across 37 states. The nurses hired through WWHS bring significant experience to the bedside. The nurses hired in 2025 average 11 years of clinical experience, allowing them to contribute to areas where staffing shortages are most acute.
“Healthcare leaders consistently tell us they need experienced nurses who can strengthen their teams and remain part of their workforce long term,” Artley said. “International direct hire offers a sustainable solution that supports both workforce stability and patient care.”
Nurses placed through WWHS commit to three-year employment agreements, helping hospitals plan for long-term staffing needs. These long-term placements help healthcare organizations strengthen care teams and maintain the clinical experience needed to support high-quality patient care.
For more information on WorldWide HealthStaff Solutions or its services, visit healthstaff.org. For more information about Medical Solutions, visit medicalsolutions.com.
WORLDWIDE HEALTHSTAFF SOLUTIONS
WorldWide HealthStaff Solutions, a Medical Solutions company, specializes in direct hire international nurse recruitment, connecting healthcare employers with qualified RNs and healthcare professionals worldwide. From recruitment to relocation, we guide both parties through seamless processes to foster long-term, mutually beneficial relationships. With offices in the United States, United Arab Emirates, and the Philippines, we are positioned to serve global healthcare markets effectively.
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