Staffing concerns plague midwestern healthcare facilities

A growing elderly population and technological advancements are having a huge impact on the healthcare industry today. Due to these factors, the need for qualified medical professionals is critical. Unfortunately, the demand is far outweighing the supply in many areas. And like most regions across the country, the Midwestern states - Illinois, Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota and Wisconsin - are suffering from this shortage.

The nursing shortage is a major problem in this area. An aging work force, poor working conditions and the opportunity to work in a variety of industries are some of the reasons people are either leaving nursing or avoiding a career in this field altogether. Issues such as salary and mandatory overtime are big concerns for nurses.

Beyond nursing, there is a growing demand for pharmacists, respiratory therapists, lab technicians and medical coders. The short supply of pharmacists stems from the expansion of the retail pharmaceutical market. More and more pharmacists are seeking employment right out of school with retail giants such as Walgreens, where the earning potential is much greater.

Efforts are being made far and wide to combat the healthcare shortage. Recruitment and retention strategies such as sign-on bonuses, tuition reimbursement and flexible work arrangements are quite commonplace in hospitals and other medical facilities. Unfortunately, many experts maintain that some tools such as sign-on bonuses don't always work.

Currently, these Midwestern states, like so many others, are in the midst of legislative action regarding recruitment and retention. Associations are working within their communities to help combat the problem. Efforts are being made to shed light on the issue through educational presentations at local high schools and internship programs. The only way a difference will be made is if public and private enterprises join forces with a common goal in mind.