Plans put forward by the leading 2008 presidential candidates to enhance access to healthcare will prove impractical without more physicians and nurses, according to a new report by AMN Healthcare Inc. (NYSE: AMN).

The report reviews the healthcare reform proposals of seven leading presidential candidates and evaluates the proposals in the context of physician and nurse supply. According to the report, none of the candidates have yet proposed initiatives to increase physician and nurse supply to meet today's shortages, or to address the increased need for healthcare services that would arise under a reformed system featuring expanded access to care.

"There is a critical connection between access to healthcare and the supply of physicians, nurses, and other medical professionals," said AMN President and CEO Susan Nowakowski. "The candidates are suggesting positive healthcare reforms, but to be effective, their plans should take into account the need for more doctors and nurses."

The report cited numbers showing the United States has a shortfall of 120,000 nurses now that is expected to grow to 1 million by 2020. In addition, it said few candidates are calling for increasing the number of nurses trained.

To download a copy of the report "Physician and Nurse Supply: The Missing Piece of the Puzzle," click here.