Issues of qualification assessment for nurses in a global market

Many nurses have a desire to travel and work overseas for both long- and short-term periods. Some may continue postgraduate study, while others may simply wish to gain experience working in another country. Depending on the country where the nurse wishes to travel and work, the process of having qualifications assessed may be quite different, usually difficult and time consuming. There are several models of assessment currently used in various countries; from examinations for all to qualification comparability, the range is diverse. These models are very relevant given that the profession has experienced a global shortage of nurses that is unlikely to improve with the current work force predictions. Reasons for the shortages range from an aging nursing population to the profession's inability to attract young people. This has lead some countries to entice nurses from other countries to lessen their shortages. This paper discusses the issues in relation to the assessment of overseas qualified nurses applying to migrate or seek employment in Australia. Some of the issues highlighted are English language assessment, qualification assessment, competency assessment, timeliness, cost and equity. Assessment models from the global market and the impact these models have on attracting nurses to Australia are discussed.