The World Health Organization predicts a global shortage of 10 million healthcare workers by 2030. This shortage will impact every nation and healthcare sector. What can healthcare organizations do today to bridge the talent gap in healthcare staffing? Where are improvements being seen?
Fastest Growing Healthcare Occupation
Registered nurses continue to be the fastest-growing occupation in healthcare. They play a significant role in the healthcare system by providing quality healthcare services. Because registered nurses take on many tasks, they remain in high demand. This demand is expected to increase in the coming years, so many healthcare organizations are visiting Locumsmart. They know this agency can help them fill any staffing gaps related to registered nurses and other medical professionals.
Innovative Solutions
Many healthcare organizations are using innovative solutions. They feel they have nothing to lose by trying new ideas, and some of these ideas may benefit them over time. What are some proven talent solutions organizations should consider using today?
AI-powered platforms are being used to simplify the hiring process and determine where additional staff members are needed. This technology can give healthcare organizations insights into their hiring metrics and help them assess their staffing needs. Furthermore, AI can help recommend candidate profiles and qualifications for different open positions within the organization.
Healthcare organizations often expand their search and benefit from international talent. Many organizations today choose to do this when looking to fill open positions in administration and telehealth. These organizations must consider the legal and financial risks of hiring outside their home countries and local labor laws and regulations.
Flexible Staffing
Many healthcare organizations find that flexible scheduling can lower turnover rates and combat burnout. According to the 2024 NSI National Health Care Retention & RN Staffing Report, healthcare organizations pay an average of $56,300 for each RN turnover. Reducing turnover can help reduce healthcare costs; flexible scheduling is one way to accomplish this goal.
Health and Wellness Support
Workers feel valued when their employers support their health and overall wellness. When workers do not feel supported, their stress levels increase. Employee assistance programs greatly help those in healthcare who are struggling. These programs offer confidential counselling and support to help alleviate stress and prevent burnout. Other wellness programs also benefit those working in healthcare.
Regular Check-Ins
Employers should make it a priority to check in with their staff members regularly. Routine meetings are helpful for sharing questions, concerns, ideas, and issues. Employees should also have a formal channel to offer feedback and suggestions. Doing so allows them to be heard, which increases their job satisfaction and improves retention rates.
Recognition Programs
Employees like to be recognized for doing a good job. When employers overlook their hard work, they often choose to leave and find somebody who will recognize and appreciate their dedication. Employees appreciate recognition and incentive programs, which boost their morale while increasing their job satisfaction. Bonuses and additional benefits may be offered to workers who remain with an organization, and programs such as these help lower turnover rates.
Healthcare organizations need to use several strategies to build a resilient workforce. The process begins by determining where the workforce is currently and where it needs to go. AI-powered tools can help in making this determination. The organization should consider doing a global search.
However, hiring outstanding talent is only the beginning. Healthcare organizations must continually find ways to retain these individuals. When they do so, the organization will be prepared for the future and all it holds.
