The Bahamas is grappling with a significant exodus of nurses from its public healthcare system, with approximately 50 nurses departing over the past three to four months. Muriel Lightbourn, president of the Bahamas Nurses Union (BNU), revealed this alarming trend as the union intensifies its push for enhanced benefits and improved retention strategies. While specific details of the new industrial agreement remain undisclosed, Lightbourn expressed optimism that the government will address the union’s demands. She emphasized that nurses are not only leaving for opportunities abroad but also transitioning to other professions that offer better prospects for personal and professional growth. ‘We cannot afford to lose more workers,’ she stated. The previous industrial agreement, signed in 2022 and expired in October, included salary increments, additional insurance benefits, and retention bonuses exceeding $3,000, depending on specific criteria. Entry-level salaries began at $26,000 annually, with potential increases up to $30,000. However, Lightbourn highlighted persistent delays in promotions and confirmations within the public healthcare system, citing the acting director of nursing, who has remained unconfirmed for over nine months, as a glaring example. She described the situation as ‘distasteful’ and ‘a slap in the face,’ questioning the prolonged delays in appointing key positions. Additionally, approximately 24 nurses are still awaiting confirmation and appointment, further exacerbating the challenges faced by the healthcare sector.
BNU chief expresses concerns over retention as 50 nurses have left over last four months
