With nurses leaving traditional roles in record numbers, healthcare facilities are facing unprecedented staffing challenges. While some nurses are stepping away from healthcare entirely, many are choosing more flexible work models, such as per diem or travel nursing, which offer autonomy and balance.
In response, healthcare administrators are turning to innovative staffing strategies to maintain patient care and mitigate burnout among their permanent staff. Below are the top five flexible staffing solutions that can help healthcare facilities stay ahead of labor shortages.
The Current Nursing Shortage: A Growing Concern
High turnover rates, burnout, and an aging workforce are driving the current nursing crisis. A recent study revealed that more than 10% of nurses quit their positions in 2023 across 86% of hospitals.
This shortage poses a significant challenge but also offers an opportunity to innovate. By leveraging flexible staffing models, facilities can not only address gaps in care but also support their full-time teams more effectively.
What Is Flexible Staffing?
Flexible staffing allows healthcare facilities to adjust their workforce according to fluctuating patient needs and labor demands. This model ensures optimal staff levels, reduces costs, and gives nurses more control over their schedules—all without compromising the quality of patient care.
5 Flexible Staffing Solutions for Healthcare Facilities
1. Per Diem Staffing
- Pros: Offers maximum flexibility and lower overall costs; nurses can be scheduled on an as-needed basis.
- Cons: May result in less continuity of care and challenges with team dynamics.
- Best For: Facilities needing quick, short-term coverage without long-term commitment.
2. Local Contract Nurses
- Pros: Provides stable staffing and reliable coverage for extended periods
- Cons: Can involve higher costs due to agency fees and onboarding.
- Best For: Managing seasonal demand or covering planned absences like vacations.
3. Travel Nurses
- Pros: Access to specialized skills and long-term coverage, often across state lines.
- Cons: Licensing delays and higher contract costs can be a drawback.
- Best For: Facilities in rural or high-demand areas requiring specialized expertise.
4. Staffing Agencies
- Pros: Simplifies hiring processes by offering access to pre-vetted talent.
- Cons: Limited control over the hiring process and potentially higher costs.
- Best For: Facilities that need help filling hard-to-recruit roles quickly.
5. Traditional Staffing
- Pros: Offers stability and fosters team cohesion
- Cons: Least flexible option, with higher costs for benefits and onboarding.
- Best For: Building a strong base of dedicated, full-time staff.
Benefits of Flexible Staffing
Flexible staffing provides a lifeline for healthcare facilities navigating unpredictable labor demands. Key benefits include:
- Resilience: Quickly address staffing shortages by contracting per diem or rapid response nurses.
- Cost Savings: Reduce expenses by avoiding long-term benefit obligations for temporary staff.
- Staff Support: Relieve permanent staff from excessive workloads, reducing burnout and improving morale.
Managing Flexible Staffing Models Effectively
To maximize the benefits of flexible staffing, healthcare facilities should:
1. Plan Ahead: Anticipate labor demands to avoid last-minute scrambling.
2. Streamline Onboarding: Use technology to simplify credentialing and compliance processes.
3. Leverage Expertise: Partner with staffing providers that understand healthcare-specific needs.
By adopting these strategies, facilities can ensure seamless integration of flexible staff while maintaining a high standard of care.
Adapting to a New Workforce Landscape
The evolving nature of the healthcare workforce demands innovative solutions. Flexible staffing not only bridges gaps in care but also empowers nurses to work on their terms, fostering a more sustainable work environment.
Whether you’re seeking per diem nurses or exploring long-term contract options, finding the right balance is key to navigating the challenges of today’s healthcare industry.
