As to the nursing shortage this is a national problem. It is a function of the miserable way nurses are treated, overworked, underpaid, overstressed and undersupported. Also, women today have the full range of career options, unlike a generation or two ago. The morale of the nurses where I work couldn't be lower. Of course, the morale of the docs isn't much better. BTW, I'm in the process of applying for a Florida medical license. I'll keep you posted.