Nurses Seek Duty-Free Uniform Concessions

BASSETERRE: During International Nurses Week, the president of the St. Kitts Nurses Association is calling for duty-free concessions on professional uniforms and shoes, citing the high cost of essential work gear as a barrier for nurses trying to maintain professional standards.

Nicia Tyson, president of the St. Kitts Nurses Association, says the measure could provide meaningful financial relief for nurses at all levels of practice.

“One of the things I would like to see done for nurses, is that nurses can get duty-free on uniform and shoes,” Tyson said. “Nurse shoes are quite expensive. So if we could get duty free on those that will be a big help. It will go a long way and it will empower the nurse.”

Tyson noted that while nurses in St. Kitts and Nevis have recently opted to wear scrubs instead of traditional uniforms with belts, the cost burden remains significant.

“Scrubs are quite expensive,” Tyson said, emphasizing that without duty-free concessions, individual nurses absorb the full expense of maintaining professional attire.

The call for duty-free uniforms arrives as the nursing profession has received increased government support in other areas. Tyson acknowledged the positive steps taken by the Ministry of Health and Prime Minister.

“The minister of health and prime minister has provided scholarship for nurses to travel to come specialize in specialized area. That is a plus. I so glad for that,” Tyson said.

Despite these advancements in professional development and training opportunities, Tyson maintains that duty-free concessions on uniforms and shoes would represent meaningful recognition of the nursing profession’s contributions to public health.