Abstract

The world is off-track to meet most of the health-related Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) targets by 2030, including SDG 3.8, universal health coverage (UHC). A sustainable nursing workforce is needed to advance UHC. This paper discusses key issues surrounding the global nursing shortage and offers solutions for the Canadian context to build a sustainable nursing workforce and strengthen health systems to improve access to care for all. Primary healthcare, investment in nursing and enhanced nursing leadership capacity are just a few of the proposed policy levers discussed.