For a smooth-functioning, equitable health care system, “we’re going to need every nurse,” says AARP CEO Jo Ann Jenkins in her essay celebrating National Nurses Week. For everyone’s good, the nation needs more nurses and needs to make sure that they are partners in making decisions. Writes Jenkins, “This National Nurses Week, all of us at AARP celebrate their skill, respect their experience, and continue our work to enhance their presence.” Read her column here.

For background on how AARP has long supported nurses, read the Institute of Medicine report on the future of nursing.