While nurses were more widely recognized during the COVID-19 pandemic, the allied health sector—comprising a wide range of professionals from imaging specialists to rehabilitation therapists—has also undergone significant changes. As healthcare leaders face ongoing staffing challenges, the demand for allied health professionals continues to rise, underscoring their critical role in comprehensive patient care.
Striking a balance between cost management and high-quality employees is critical for long-term success and ensuring the integrity of patient care. However, with so many healthcare systems' over reliance on contingent labor, which often comes at a premium price, this is often easier said than done. Innovative solutions are imperative for today's healthcare leaders.
In the world of healthcare, where the lines between day and night often blur, the concept of work-life balance can seem like a distant dream. But as a mental health expert and a leader in healthcare workforce solutions, I understand the impact that a lack of balance can have on both healthcare professionals and the patients they serve. Addressing this issue is imperative and it starts with an awareness of the impact mental health has on our workforce.
The healthcare recruitment landscape has changed drastically over the last decade; even more so in the last few years. With talent shortages, particularly in specialized practices, as well as an aging population, increasing demand for health services, and an ever-increasing skill gap, it comes as minimal surprise that the vast majority of healthcare facilities— around 84% — have used contingent labor/locum tenens at some point in the past year.
