The job of a human resources professional is to attract, retain, and develop the talent necessary to deliver high-quality patient care. The HR department of any healthcare organization is more critical than ever as they handle the unique challenges inherent in the hiring landscape, from adopting new technologies to filling staff shortages.
Let’s take a look at the current healthcare hiring trends and talk about what HR leaders should know to stay at the top of their craft. Working with a talent acquisition firm in Philadelphia PA is a good start.
Creative Recruiting Strategies for Talent Shortages
The ongoing shortage of qualified healthcare professionals is a continuing challenge for this industry. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment in healthcare occupations is projected to grow significantly over the next decade, but the supply of skilled workers is simply not keeping pace with demand.
The result? A highly competitive and saturated hiring environment, especially when it comes to roles for nurses, physicians, medical technicians, and allied health professionals.
HR leaders are implementing creative and innovative recruitment strategies to obtain the talent needed to thrive. They strive to:
- Widen recruitment efforts beyond local markets: Thanks to the rise of remote and hybrid work models, many healthcare organizations are starting to recruit outside the immediate area to out-of-state or international candidates.
- Build relationships with schools: Ensuring a steady flow of talent requires close partnerships with universities, nursing schools, and other educational providers.
- Offer flexible scheduling and telehealth opportunities: HR leaders are enticing candidates with flexible schedules or telehealth roles with the goal of a better work-life balance.
Telehealth and Digital Health Roles
The COVID-19 pandemic led to a rise in telehealth appointments. While the pandemic may be over with, the telehealth industry is showing no signs of stopping. More professionals are needed who boast expertise in digital health, telemedicine, and virtual care technologies.
As a result, HR leaders are looking for candidates who have skills in:
- Virtual care coordination: People who can effectively manage and coordinate care across virtual platforms are in demand so that patients get high-quality remote services.
- Telehealth technology platforms: Professionals are needed who are skilled in telemedicine software, video conferencing tools, and patient management systems.
- Cybersecurity and data privacy: Because telehealth involves sensitive patient data, healthcare organizations need candidates with strong backgrounds in cybersecurity to protect that data.
Embracing Flexible Work Arrangements
While healthcare traditionally requires on-site presence, there is an evolution in the way healthcare organizations are starting to handle work arrangements. HR leaders who want to attract and retain top candidates are offering flexible work options that include:
- Remote work for administrative roles
- Flexible shifts
- Hybrid schedules
Even departments that have traditionally always been done in house, such as administrative, billing, and coding positions, can be performed remotely. This expands the choices to a wider pool of candidates. Such flexible positions can help curb burnout while boosting job satisfaction.
Upskilling and Reskilling
Continuous upskilling and reskilling is necessary in an evolving healthcare market. With new technologies, changing regulations, and updated delivery models, healthcare professionals must continually hone their skills to remain relevant.
To that end, HR leaders are offering:
- Ongoing education and training programs: Offering educational resources, certifications, and specialized training to employees enhances job performance.
- Leadership development workshops: Such programs can make sure future leaders are equipped with the necessary skills to handle challenges, manage teams, and fuel innovation in the industry.
- Cross-training initiatives: Employees who can perform multiple roles lead to a more agile and resilient department when staff shortages are occurring.
Burnout Prevention
Healthcare workers are at an increased risk of burnout. According to the CDC, 46 percent of health workers report feeling burned out often or very often compared to 32 percent in 2018.
To prevent this, HR leaders are implementing Initiatives such as:
- Mental health support services: Access to counseling, stress management resources, and wellness programs not only improves overall job satisfaction but prevents burnout.
- Resilience training: Finding ways to manage stress, build resilience, and strike a positive work/life balance can help to reduce turnover and promote long-term job satisfaction.
- Wellness programs and benefits: A healthier work environment contributes to improved retention rates, backed by flexible time off, on-site wellness facilities, and family support programs.
By staying on top of these healthcare hiring trends, such as supporting flexible work arrangements and embracing creative recruitment strategies, HR leaders can ensure their organizations are well positioned for success in such a competitive healthcare job market.
