In the healthcare industry, the demand for caretakers, especially in nursing homes and assisted living facilities, remains consistently high – and this has been the case for years now. In March, the American Health Care Association (AHCA) released its 2024 State of the Sector Report, highlighting a recent survey of 441 nursing home providers. The survey findings reflect the current state of the nursing home sector, which, despite ongoing investments, is struggling to rebuild its workforce and recover from the pandemic.
Highlights from the survey specifically highlight continued worker shortages:
- Ninety-nine percent of nursing homes currently have open jobs, including 89 percent of those actively trying to hire for registered nurse (RN) positions.
- Seventy-two percent of nursing homes say their current workforce levels are lower than pre-pandemic staffing levels.
- More than half of nursing homes say their workforce situation has changed or worsened.
Additionally, a recent report showed that 81% of clinicians want states to implement laws governing staff-to-patient ratios, which they ranked as one of the biggest considerations when taking a job. The National Center for Health Workforce estimates that 83 million Americans already live in an area without a primary care provider. Looking ahead, the outlook isn’t brighter, with the U.S. expected to be nearly 200,000 nurses short by 2031.
As HR and recruiting professionals in the healthcare industry, you are facing a significant challenge. The demand for caretakers is high, and recent changes in regulatory standards have intensified the pressure to hire staff. You are tasked with hiring caretakers at a high volume while maintaining compliance with stringent regulations. We understand the difficulties you are facing and are here to provide strategies to help you overcome them.
In this post, we’ll explore practical strategies for recruiting and hiring caretakers at high volumes. These strategies are not just about meeting staffing demands, but also about upholding quality care standards for residents. By implementing these strategies, you can make a significant difference in the lives of the residents you serve.
Understanding the Challenge of Hiring High-Volume in Healthcare
The healthcare industry has long needed caretakers. However, recent regulatory changes have amplified the urgency for facilities to bolster their staff numbers. According to a recent report, many nursing homes need help meeting the federal government’s new rules due to staffing shortages. This underscores the critical need for organizations to adopt proactive hiring strategies to bridge the gap.
Leveraging Technology
One of the most effective ways to streamline the hiring process for caretakers at high volume is by leveraging technology. Applicant tracking systems (ATS) can help HR professionals manage large volumes of applications efficiently, automating tasks such as resume screening and candidate communication. Additionally, utilizing online job boards and social media platforms can expand the reach of job postings, attracting a wider pool of qualified candidates.
Streamlining the Application Process
Simplify the application process to encourage more candidates to apply. Lengthy, complex application forms can deter potential applicants, particularly those applying to multiple positions. Organizations can increase applicant conversion rates and expedite the hiring process by optimizing the application process for mobile devices and reducing the number of required fields.
Implementing Targeted Recruitment Campaigns
Tailor recruitment campaigns to attract candidates with the specific skills and qualifications required for caretaker roles. Partnering with local community organizations, vocational schools, and healthcare associations can target candidates who are passionate about caregiving and more likely to thrive in the role. Utilize targeted advertising on social media platforms to reach potential candidates in the local area.
Fostering Partnerships with Educational Institutions
Develop partnerships with educational institutions offering certified nursing assistant (CNA) programs or other healthcare training courses. Collaborate with these institutions to promote job opportunities, offer internships or externships, and provide tuition reimbursement or scholarship programs. By investing in the development of future healthcare professionals, organizations can cultivate a pipeline of qualified caretakers.
Emphasizing Employee Retention
While hiring caretakers at a high volume is essential, retaining them is equally crucial. Employee turnover can be costly and disruptive to resident care. Implement initiatives to support employee engagement, such as ongoing training and development, mentorship programs, and recognition initiatives. Additionally, prioritize creating a positive work culture that values and appreciates the contributions of caretakers.
Finally, meeting the demand for caretakers at high volume requires HR and recruiting professionals to adopt proactive and innovative strategies. Organizations can successfully navigate the challenges of hiring caretakers in bulk by leveraging technology, streamlining the application process, implementing targeted recruitment campaigns, fostering partnerships with educational institutions, and emphasizing employee retention. By prioritizing quality care and compliance with regulatory standards, organizations can ensure the well-being and safety of residents while maintaining a steady flow of qualified caretakers.
