Achieving a More Flexible Workforce in Healthcare

Trends in Achieving a More Flexible Workforce

What are some of the trends you are seeing right now in the journey to achieving a more flexible workforce? The demand for flexible workforce solutions is at an all-time high. Health systems are increasingly adopting innovative staffing strategies to meet evolving needs. Key trends include: Increased Demand for Flexibility: Workers, particularly in the healthcare sector, are seeking more flexible options than ever before. This demand stems from a generational shift where the workforce values work-life balance and adaptable work arrangements. Health systems are responding by exploring new staffing models that offer this flexibility. This trend necessitates a strategic approach to workforce planning, ensuring that staff have the autonomy they desire while maintaining high standards of patient care. Creative Staffing Solutions: Innovative approaches to staffing are becoming more prevalent as health systems strive to meet their staffing needs efficiently. Internal float pools and internal agencies are examples of these creative solutions. By leveraging various sources of staff, health systems can deploy personnel more effectively. These solutions not only address immediate staffing shortages but also provide a framework for long-term workforce sustainability. Strategic Mix of Workforce: Health systems are focusing on finding the right balance between core staff, contingent contract labor, and other flexible staffing resources. Achieving this balance involves a careful analysis of the types of staff needed and the best ways to deploy them. The goal is to optimize operations to meet patient needs and organizational objectives. This strategic mix is vital for maintaining operational efficiency and financial health.

Internal Float Pools vs. Internal Agency Internal Float Pools: A group of staff who are pre-qualified and cleared to work in multiple units or departments within a healthcare organization, typically booked on a shift-by-shift basis. These staff are “floating” or available to be assigned to different areas within a local area (can be single or multiple facilities) based on the staffing needs of the organization.

Internal Agency: A group of staff who are pre-qualified and cleared to work in multiple units, departments, and locations within a healthcare organization. Internal agency staff are deployed on short-term assignments (13 weeks or less) like an external traveler or contractor, only taking assignments within a single health system.

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