Staffing is a major concern among hospital IT executives. But what can be done to improve shortages and other staffing challenges?
Prioritize hiring in high-risk areas, create and maintain a robust referral program and network at industry conferences--those are among several strategies for recruiting and retaining hospital IT talent, according to Mike Bunch, managing director of recruitment and fulfillment at CTG Health Solutions.
Bunch, in a Becker's Hospital Review post, outlines 10 best practices for CIOs and other health IT executives to follow. Among some of his other suggestions:
- Clearly communicate IT hiring goals to hiring managers: Human resources and IT are often at odds over expectations, Bunch says. "This only further delays hiring decisions and, in some cases, results in the loss of excellent candidates who are not willing to wait," he says.
- Hire a health IT recruiting specialist: Who understands health IT professionals better than other health IT professionals? "Investing in a high quality, experienced HIT recruiter also helps HR gain credibility with technology-savvy clinicians," Bunch says.
- Verify credentials and references: This might seem like a no-brainer, but according to Bunch, many health IT experts will embellish, or worse, lie about their experience knowing the state of desperation for hospital executives. "Hospitals must be diligent in their candidate investigations and background checks."
A survey of healthcare CEOs published last month by PwC's Health Research Institute found that many were worried that IT staffing shortages would impede their ability to meet government mandates, consumer expectations and new growth opportunities.
To learn more:
- read Bunch's full post in Becker's Hospital Review