Nurses are reporting that they have less time to engage directly in patient care amidst workplace shortages, political headwinds and rising pressure, according to Incredible Health's 6th Annual State of U.S. Nurses & Technicians Report, released June 4, 2025.  
 
Using data from 1 million health care workers and survey results from 2,300 nurses and 150 technicians, the report found that 80% of nurses are experiencing increased stress. Nearly 70%, meanwhile, have less time for direct patient care. 
 
Political and financial strains are also impacting providers. According to the report, 88% of nurses and technicians believe that potential cuts to Medicare and Medicaid will have an adverse effect on health systems, and 63% of nurses think that the current political environment will impact their job or workplace. 
 
The report authors also noted that the economy has influenced career choices and trajectories for nurses and health care technicians. For example, 55% of nurses noted that the housing market has limited their ability to consider roles in other cities. 
Increased stress and limited career advancement opportunities are also impacting how health care professionals navigate their careers, the report authors add. 
 
While these challenges are top of mind for many, leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) could help providers save time and increase efficiency. Many health care professionals are growing more optimistic about AI’s role and abilities, according to the report. The proportion of nurses who saw AI as a threat decreased from 64% in 2024 to 38% in 2025, and 85% of nurses noted that they want more training on how to use the emerging technology. 
 
View Incredible Health's 6th Annual State of U.S. Nurses & Technicians Report at https://www.incrediblehealth.com/blog/inside-the-sixth-annual-state-of-u-s-nursing-and-technicians-report.