Kiggans, Underwood Recognize September 1st-8th as National Clinical Nurse Specialist Week

Kiggans, Underwood Recognize September 1st-8th as National Clinical Nurse Specialist Week September 02, 2026 | Press Releases WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congresswoman Jen Kiggans (VA-02) and Congresswoman Lauren Underwood (IL-14) introduced a resolution to recognize the first week of September 2026 as National Clinical Nurse Specialist Week. The resolution recognizes the contributions of Clinical Nurse Specialists (CNSs) to patient outcomes and health system quality across the country. As it stands today, the Bureau of Labor Statistics does not list CNS as a separate advanced practice nursing occupation, even though Medicare and Medicaid both recognize CNS as a distinct profession. The resulting lack of specialized data has made it increasingly difficult to address any healthcare gaps and secure funding for this critical profession. This resolution reaffirms support for policies that ensure the CNS workforce is accurately counted, classified, and supported in federal health workforce planning. Congresswoman Kiggans said , “Our Clinical Nurse Specialists serve an incredibly important role in administering quality care and education to their patients. As a geriatric nurse practitioner and Vice Co-Chair of the Congressional Nursing Caucus, I know firsthand the value our advanced practice nurses bring to patients, providers, and our entire healthcare system. Unfortunately, federal workforce data does not reflect the important work our CNSs do, but their contributions are felt across the country every day. I’m proud to introduce this resolution to recognize our National Clinical Nurse Specialists and thank them for their continued dedication to patients, providers, and communities throughout our nation.” “As a nurse, I know the unique role that Clinical Nurse Specialists play in delivering high-quality care and advocating for their patients, all while working to strengthen their communities,” said Congresswoman Underwood, Vice Chair of the Congressional Nursing Caucus . “Our nursing workforce is facing unprecedented attacks, and we must do more to protect, support, and strengthen our profession. I’m proud to introduce this resolution honoring Clinical Nurse Specialists for their expertise, dedication, and contributions to patient care during National Clinical Nurse Specialist Week.” “Clinical Nurse Specialists are on the front lines of improving patient outcomes and strengthening health systems in every state, yet our workforce remains invisible in the federal data that shapes nursing policy. We thank Representative Kiggans for recognizing CNS Week and for standing behind the simple principle that you cannot plan for a workforce you refuse to count. This resolution moves us closer to the day when CNSs are counted, classified, and supported the way our patients and health systems deserve,” said National Association of Clinical Nurse Specialists President, Jackeline Iseler, DNP, MSN, RN, ACNS-BC, CNE, FCNS . Read the resolution here . Read a one-pager here . As a geriatric nurse practitioner and Vice Co-Chair of the Congressional Nursing Caucus, Congresswoman Kiggans is committed to strengthening America’s nursing workforce, supporting healthcare professionals, and ensuring nurses receive the recognition and resources they need to provide high-quality care to their patients. This resolution is endorsed by the National Association of Clinical Nurse Specialists. Cropped shot of a female nurse hold her senior patient’s hand. Giving Support. Doctor helping old patient with Alzheimer’s disease. Female carer holding hands of senior man