As we step into the promising landscape of 2024, the healthcare staffing industry is buzzing with transformative trends that are reshaping the workforce. For travel nurses and allied health professionals alike, staying ahead of these trends is not just an option—it’s a necessity. Let’s look at the trends that will define the healthcare staffing scene in the coming year.

1. The Employment Rollercoaster:

While the healthcare sector has witnessed a commendable recovery, it still trails pre-pandemic predictions. With 58,400 jobs added in October 2023, healthcare employment is on the rise but remains below expected levels. Travel nurses and allied health professionals, take note: heightened competition for top-tier talent is on the horizon. To fortify your position, focus on enhancing job listings, highlighting differentiators, and investing in programs that elevate work experience. Consider partnering with staffing agencies to identify and attract ideal prospects.

2. Physician Burnout Blues:

Physicians are grappling with burnout, with a significant increase reported in the last five years. A staggering 53% of physicians now admit to feeling burnt out, up from 42% in 2018. Healthcare leaders, it’s time to revisit wellness programs and mental health resources. Ensure effective plans are in place to support permanent clinicians and consider reinforcements through locum tenens to prevent overworking and alleviate stress.

3. The Hiring Struggle is Real:

Employers are facing challenges in filling positions, particularly in the physician domain. A snapshot reveals that in the last 12 months, nearly 80,000 jobs were posted for physicians, but only one out of every five positions was filled. Healthcare leaders must strategize on mitigating losses due to unfilled positions to avoid interruptions in service delivery and maintain patient satisfaction.

4. Battling Chronic Diseases:

Chronic diseases are on the rise, with six in ten Americans living with at least one. Leaders need to proactively hire physicians and advanced practice providers specializing in chronic disease prevention and treatment. Specialized professionals, such as cardiologists, oncologists, and endocrinologists, are essential to meet the growing demand.

5. Telehealth Triumphs:

Patients are increasingly seeking telehealth options. In the past year, nearly 60% of patients participating in telemedicine reported having a minimum of three virtual visits. Healthcare leaders, streamline services and consider hiring locum tenens or part-time providers dedicated to virtual care to meet the growing demand for remote healthcare options.

6. Rise of Nurse Practitioners and Physician Assistants:

The numbers don’t lie—nurse practitioners and physician assistants have seen significant growth. With the ranks of nurse practitioners increasing by 8.5% and over 126,000 physician assistants as of September 2023, these professionals are critical in addressing physician shortages. Travel nurses and allied health professionals, consider the diverse specializations these professionals offer to enhance your facility’s care strategy.

7. Physician Compensation Upsurge:

Physician compensation is on the rise, driven by supply and demand dynamics. Healthcare leaders must find ways to meet compensation demands to secure top talent. Utilizing locum tenens support can be a cost-effective solution, allowing facilities to preserve their bottom line while investing in successful long-term hires

8. AI’s Role in Transformation:

AI technology is emerging as a game-changer in workforce strategy. Forward-thinking leaders are turning to staffing agencies with innovative AI-powered solutions to optimize staffing experiences. 

9. Rural Areas’ Provider Shortages Persist:

Rural areas continue to grapple with provider shortages, with 65% reporting a shortage of primary care physicians in 2023. Travel nurses and allied health professionals aiming to work in rural areas take note: facilities are actively seeking your expertise. Highlight the rewards of practicing in rural areas, showcase facility strengths, and consider partnering with staffing agencies with a successful track record in rural fulfillment.

10. Billing Transparency Takes Center Stage:

New legislation on healthcare cost transparency is reshaping the landscape. With the Lower Costs, More Transparency bill requiring healthcare entities to publicly list prices, leaders must prioritize transparency. Cross Country Data Aggregation Services (DAS) offers bill rate transparency, empowering healthcare clients to make proactive, data-driven decisions.

Need help navigating the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead? We’re here to help! Reach out to any of our recruiters here.

Sources:
https://www.crosscountry.com/blog/healthcare-trends-to-keep-on-your-radar-in-2024

https://www2.staffingindustry.com/Editorial/Healthcare-Staffing-Report/April-13-2023/Summary-of-SIA-s-healthcare-staffing-industry-forecast

https://shccares.com/exploring-the-future-of-travel-nursing-industry-trends-and-outlooks/