Finding a job

Whatever happened to the nursing shortage? I live in the Southeast in NC. We have multiple large hospitals here and none are really hiring. I have spoken with HR and friends who work in these hospitals. They are basically only hiring from within. i.e. Re-organizing. Even new grads can't find work. The hospitals really don't want to pay for really experienced nurses due to the cost. They are looking for "middle of the road" experience if they hire at all. I am wondering how long until this turns around and if the MSN I am pursuing is a waste of time and money since I only have about 8 years til retirement. There are a lot of us 60+ nurses out here. I have been working in MD offices since 2003 but doing management, infusions, etc. Trying to get back into the hospital is a nightmare. Maybe I should stay in the office arena??