The healthcare staffing industry in the US will face unprecedented challenges in 2024. With the latest data from Staffing Industry Analysts (SIA), we can examine the critical trends impacting various segments, including travel nursing, per diem, locum tenens, and allied health. Here is information to help you stay ahead of the curve.
Travel Nursing
Travel nursing continues to experience increased demand as healthcare facilities address workforce shortages. Due to the ongoing scarcity of permanent nursing staff, expect a market rise of 15% in 2024. Travel nurses can expect a 10% increase in average pay rates due to facilities competing for top talent. Thus, it is essential to offer competitive compensation to secure experienced professionals. Employers are focusing on retention strategies like offering completion bonuses and housing stipends to ensure continuity of care.
Per Diem Nursing
Per diem nursing offers healthcare facilities the flexibility to manage unpredictable patient volumes and unexpected staffing gaps. It is gaining popularity because facilities are seeking a rapid response to staffing challenges. Key insights include:
- Flexibility: The ability to scale staffing levels quickly makes per diem nursing attractive to healthcare providers.
- Work-life balance: Nurses working per diem shifts cite better work-life balance.
- Tech integration: Advanced scheduling platforms and mobile apps are streamlining the process of matching nurses with available shifts.
Physician Shortages
Locum tenens, or temporary physician staffing, is crucial in addressing the nationwide shortage of physicians. These temporary physicians deploy to rural and underserved regions where permanent staffing is challenging. There is a significant increase in high-demand specialties. The locum tenens segment should grow by 12% in 2024, reflecting the increasing recognition of its value by healthcare facilities.
Allied Health
As the industry continues to realize the critical contributions of allied health professionals, the demand will continue to increase. Key insights for therapists, technicians, technologists, and all allied health professionals include:
- Broadening scope: These healthcare professionals’ roles are expanding with increased patient care, diagnostics, and rehabilitation responsibilities.
- Educational pathways: The emphasis on specialized education and certification programs is increasing to equip allied health professionals with the skills required for advanced roles.
- Market growth: The allied health staffing segment could see 10% growth in 2024.
Workforce Shortages and Contingent Worker Utilization
Workforce shortages are a significant issue in the healthcare industry. As such, facilities are adopting staffing innovations such as flexible work arrangements and telehealth to attract and retain talent. There is a shift towards increased utilization of contingent workers. This use of part-time, temporary, and gig workers is growing, and healthcare facilities have the means to meet fluctuating demands. Changes in labor laws are also impacting staffing practices, necessitating adaptable workforce strategies.
Partner with Medical Edge Recruitment for Your Healthcare Staffing Needs
Medical Edge Recruitment is your trusted partner in healthcare staffing solutions. Whether you need travel nurses, per diem nurses, locum tenens physicians, or allied health professionals, we have a pool of vetted professionals ready to work on short notice. Our team is committed to helping you navigate the challenges of 2024 by providing top talent and innovative staffing strategies.
Contact Medical Edge Recruitment today at 713-897-8777 to discuss your staffing requirements. Let us help you stay ahead of the curve and ensure your healthcare facility is well-equipped to provide exceptional care.
