North Carolina News

Nursing Shortage Persists in North Carolina, Despite Recent Improvements

Sep 19, 2025 - Describes the shortage of nurses in North Carolina, particularly among licensed practical nurses (LPNs). Discusses factors driving shortages, a history of the shortage, and areas where progress has been made, particularly in training new LPNs. Looks at workforce projections for the coming decades. Discusses the impact on rural throughout.

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NC Turns to Mobile Clinics to Expand Substance Use Treatment

Sep 16, 2025 - Discusses the use of mobile clinics in North Carolina to increase access to medications for opioid use disorder in rural and other low access areas. Discusses distance to care and transportation barriers for opioid treatment programs as well as stigma.

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Help Line Gives Pediatricians Crucial Mental Health Information to Help Kids, Families

Sep 9, 2025 - Highlights the work of the North Carolina Psychiatry Access Line (NC-PAL), a free phone line allowing medical providers to consult with behavioral health specialists about their patients. Discusses ways in which they are reaching rural communities to increase access to mental health services.

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