I think the issue Rhonda highlighted is that a lot of funding is at the base level to get people in, and we don't want to erode that funding, because it's inadequate as it stands. But when people try to bridge or build up their programs so practical nurses become RNs, and RNs become nurse practitioners, the funding may not be available or may be incomplete.
There's the issue of being able to hold a position while somebody takes a year off to complete a degree program or obtain the credentials they need to be a nurse practitioner. There's nothing wrong with putting in an employment requirement that they have to stay in a position for two years after an employer has paid for training. That kind of thing would be fine, but people need the funding at the time. As mentioned, many of the people who do make it as nurses and physicians tend to be more mature students. They have families and kids. So there's the issue of day care funding. Other related expenses also need to be taken into account. I think that area needs to be explored.