Need references!!

Hello,
I have been working as a first year nurse, as a circulator in the operating room. I had to give notice recently, as my husband got a job in another city.
My hospital human resources department has stated recently to employees that they cannot write or give descriptive references, and can only state when the employee started their position and when it ended. They state that if a reference says great things about the employee to another hospital and the employee doesn't turn out to be great then they don't want responsibility.
I have had great evaluations, worked hard and am well liked in my unit. How am I supposed to get a new job without a descriptive reference?
Has anyone heard of a hospital doing this??
This is becoming the norm for many facilities, only verifying dates of employments.Ask for a copy of your yearly evaluation if you do not have one, to use for future employment.
Thank you for replying to my note! I appreciate it!Kimochee