Opinions/Advice Re: relocating and nursing practice

[ladybartylla]

I'd like to move to a warmer climate and am looking for advice regarding good states for nursing and healthcare in general. For example, I have heard through professional colleagues that Georgia isn't great for nursing practice. I'm not saying that is true so nurses from Georgia, please don't yell at me. It seems like, from things I have read, the state of healthcare in general is poor in the south which could be an indicator of that regions dedication to improving the health of its population.

Anyway, I'm looking at more than just pay. For me, pay does not make up for healthy and positive work environments. The northeast looks promising but again, I need a warm climate. I wouldn't miss winter. I have worked in Pediatric Intensive Care/Trauma at a staff nurse level and in leadership roles for the last 10 years, but am open to other practice areas as well. I have also been actively involved in professional nursing organizations (non-union; only mean I don't have experience with collective bargaining) and other healthcare related councils, so am looking to other states that are strong in these areas as well.

I would appreciate any and all opinions.

Thanks in advance.