Burnout, growing demand for care, and a number of other factors are all contributing to a staffing crisis for the healthcare industry. Though some facilities may feel the shortage more than others, many facilities need more staff to help handle the patients and ensure they receive the right care for their needs. This issue takes a multi-faceted approach to solve, but there are strategies healthcare facilities can use to reduce or eliminate their staffing shortages.
Work with a Staffing Agency
A staffing agency can be a great way to find new long-term recruits and to help add additional staff when needed. This is often the easiest way to find new workers, as they have a list of people who are looking for work and can help match staff and facilities to get the best fit possible. Healthcare facilities will want to check out client resources for healthcare staffing to learn more about the help that’s available and why working with a staffing agency can be a great idea.
Use Locum Tenens or Temporary Staff
Along with adding more permanent staff to the facility, it can be helpful to use locum tenens or temporary staff to fill in any potential gaps. If someone needs to be out sick for an extended period, is going on vacation, is taking family leave, or is gone for another reason, temporary staff can fill in the gap and ensure patients still get the help they need. This is also perfect for covering positions temporarily until a permanent replacement can be found. Working closely with a staffing agency can make it easier to hire locum tenens or temporary staff as needed.
Use Technology and Telehealth
Healthcare facilities may want to take advantage of the latest in tech to help lighten the workload of the existing staff, which can help prevent burnout and other issues. On top of this, the facility may want to look into working with a telehealth provider. Patients may be able to get help through the telehealth provider to cut down on the in-person office visits that may be needed. This helps to reduce the staff’s workload, though the staff will still be available for those who prefer an in-person visit or who need more help than a telehealth appointment can offer.
Prioritize Workforce Well-Being
Healthcare facilities will want to make sure they’re prioritizing the well-being of the staff members to prevent burnout or staff quitting their positions and finding jobs at other facilities or in a new location. Prioritizing their well-being can include offering more flexible schedules, providing vacation and sick leave when needed, reducing their workload to make it more manageable, and more. This will help cut down on the high turnover rates seen by many healthcare facilities today and can help to improve morale at the facility.
If your healthcare facility is suffering from the staffing crisis, help is available. Using the tips here and working with a staffing agency can make it easier to bring in new staff and retain the current staff, reducing the impact of the shortage and ensuring your patients get the care they need. Take a look at how a staffing agency can help with short-term and long-term staff to help ensure you have everyone needed to handle the current demand.
Evelyn White is an experienced content writer with a background in lifestyle, trends, and practical advice. With several years of writing across digital platforms, she specializes in making everyday topics accessible, informative, and engaging. Her goal is to deliver trustworthy, reader-focused content that’s both useful and easy to understand.