In the ever-changing landscape of healthcare, where tomorrow’s challenges are unpredictable, the need for strategically staffed and crisis-ready hospitals has never been more crucial. While the worst of the pandemic may be largely behind us, the lessons learned underscore the ongoing need for vigilance and preparedness. The pandemic not only provided valuable insights but also emphasized the importance of a proactive approach to tackling any future crises that may arise. Hospitals serve as the backbone of our communities, particularly in times of disaster like catastrophic weather events, global pandemics, and other crises the public can’t always prepare for.
What doesn’t vary, though, is health systems’ need for healthcare-specific integrated workforce management platforms to help them prepare for any crisis. In recent years as hospitals were inundated with and figuring out quarantine, testing units and more, those that leveraged a workforce management platform were better equipped to maintain compliance with schedule regulations/overtime and state-based pay policies. It is time for every hospital to embrace integrated technology that will support frontline workers and, in turn, help ensure uninterrupted patient care even when the unexpected happens.
The Critical Need for Specialized Workforce Solutions
Hospitals face unique challenges daily but even more so during crises, from bed shortages and patient tracking to lack of interdepartmental communication. These challenges only exacerbate the pervasive administrative burden clinicians face every day, especially when it comes to scheduling.
According to survey data from the American Organization for Nursing Leadership (AONL), nurse managers, for instance, spend up to 60% of their time scheduling shifts – taking valuable time away from supporting, mentoring and retaining those who provide patient care. Given the limited time available for the growth and retention of their staff as a result, it’s unsurprising that 45% of nurse managers have expressed an intention to resign from their positions, with lack of work-life balance being a primary driver.
Technology can help alleviate the administrative workload on nurses by automating and streamlining administrative tasks and giving them back more time for patient care. As emerging care delivery models like virtual nursing, the traveler and gig staffing boom, and team-based care become more prevalent, healthcare technology needs to evolve to effectively support these models.
Recognizing the vulnerability within our healthcare system given record levels of clinician fatigue, the importance of dedicated solutions tailored to the healthcare industry is evident. Healthcare workers’ jobs are hard; we owe it to them to make operations simple. But all technology isn’t created equal and investing in too many disparate systems to manage a healthcare workforce may exacerbate workforce problems. Health systems that advocate for and implement integrated workforce management platforms are one step closer to streamlining operations and offering a comprehensive solution to the administrative challenges faced by healthcare professionals.
Workforce Management Tools to Navigate Crises
During times of a changing healthcare landscape, healthcare providers cannot afford to be burdened by administrative tasks, as they need to focus on maintaining order and continuing patient care amid the potential chaos. The transformative role of technology in helping nurses manage crises was seen during the COVID-19 pandemic. As ICU occupancy rates surged, integrated workforce management platforms were integral in maintaining compliance, tracking time, and managing schedules during the disarray. By capturing time, adhering to overtime caps, and providing lunch breaks, these platforms proved indispensable in ensuring seamless operations.
The ability to help care workers navigate all kinds of crises – from natural disasters to humanitarian incidents – underscores the versatility and importance of integrated workforce management solutions. Technology that can help healthcare workers navigate complexities, track resources efficiently, and maintain compliance during unprecedented times is not just important, it is a fundamental tool to help maintain patient safety and quality.
Beyond the Disasters: Supporting our Future Frontline Heroes
In addition to its role in times of emergency, technology is key in addressing the ongoing workforce shortage by identifying and troubleshooting the challenges faced by healthcare providers. This is important, as a 2023 survey revealed that clinician burnout/workforce challenges (41%) is the number one threat organizations face in 2024.
In addition to prioritizing integrated workforce management solutions, health systems must develop targeted recruitment programs to address workforce challenges. Organizations can build their talent pipelines by demonstrating a commitment to employee well-being, establishing clear pathways for career advancement within the organization, and focusing on creating a positive work environment that promotes a sense of community and purpose. By adopting a holistic approach that considers the diverse needs of healthcare professionals at each stage of their careers, health systems can create an environment that supports their well-being, fosters professional growth, and ultimately enhances the quality of patient care.
Building Resilience Through Advanced Workforce Management Solutions
Adopting technology proactively for preparedness empowers stakeholders and hospitals to prioritize the well-being of their staff through the widespread adoption of healthcare-specific workforce management platforms. By fortifying hospitals and health systems, these platforms ensure readiness in the face of the unknown, ultimately fostering a resilient and empowered healthcare workforce.
About Allison Morin
Allison Morin, MSN, RN-BC, is symplr’s Vice President of Nursing Informatics. As a board-certified clinical informatics nurse with more than 20 years of direct and operational healthcare IT experience, Ali is a leader in strategic and operational nursing communication and technology-enabled care delivery. Ali has extensive experience with adopting process change to maximize patient safety, quality of care, and operational efficiency. She has led the development, deployment, re-engineering, optimization, and integration of clinical information systems, and is well-versed in ensuring continuous clinical regulatory readiness. Ali leads nurse communication strategy, implementation and customer success for Halo Health, serving as Co-Chair of the Halo Health Advisory Council as well as the Halo Health Clinical Committee.