The Best Time to Implement an Internal Contingent Workforce Optimization Plan is When You Don’t Need One
In the dynamic and unpredictable business of modern healthcare, the importance of an adaptable and resilient workforce cannot be overstated. After we experience the annual year end mad dash of elective procedures patients schedule strategically to beat resetting deductibles and the long winter months of seasonal illness that require us to “staff up” for volumes, late Spring & Summer can be deceptive seasons for healthcare leaders as patient volumes decrease and staffing appears to “stabilize.” Inevitably, the reprieve is always short lived, so it is imperative we spend those calmer times planning, implementing and/or optimizing our workforce strategies for the next evolution. Even healthcare systems currently experiencing low turnover rates and minimal reliance on external contingent labor should consider investing in and optimizing an internal resource pool, or Local Insourced Flex Team (LIFT). This strategic move is crucial in addressing seasonal fluctuations in patient volume, unexpected staff absences, and the prolonged time required to fill vacancies. Additionally, it provides a local solution to the ongoing nursing shortage and serves as a retention mechanism by offering flexible work options, alternatives to travel nursing & competitive compensation that benefit both the organization and its employees.