As healthcare regulations and workforce needs evolve, discover strategic actions to navigate policy changes, address staffing shortages, and leverage technology for a resilient, future-ready workforce management approach.
Below are 10 key action steps derived from the Staffing Industry Analysts 2024 Healthcare Staffing Summit.
1. Monitor legislative changes in 2025
Track new policies and legislative changes, particularly around Medicare Advantage and the ACA, to prepare for potential adjustments in reimbursement rates and subsidy structures.
2. Reform graduate medical education (GME)
Advocate for transitioning GME funding from Medicare to general tax revenue, which could expand residency training slots and alleviate workforce shortages.
3. Enhance recruitment strategies in behavioral health
Focus on recruitment in behavioral health to address staffing gaps, as demand is expected to grow following the pandemic.
4. Integrate AI for workforce efficiency
Explore AI solutions that can support healthcare professionals, freeing up time for more complex, patient-centered tasks and improving productivity.
5. Expand loan forgiveness programs
Support and expand effective loan forgiveness and tuition reimbursement programs that incentivize professionals to work in underserved areas.
6. Advocate for healthcare deregulation
Promote deregulation efforts to reduce administrative burdens and allow greater flexibility for healthcare providers, including adapting CMS staffing requirements to better meet patient needs.
7. Prepare for ACA market shifts
Analyze and develop strategies for potential changes in ACA subsidies to mitigate the impact on the individual healthcare market.
8. Drive transparency in healthcare markets
Push for transparency in healthcare pricing and quality, making information accessible to empower consumer choice.
9. Continue telemedicine expansion
Leverage the growth of telemedicine, which has seen regulatory support, to enhance service delivery and expand patient access across regions.
10. Advocate for flexible immigration policies for healthcare workers
Engage with policymakers to support green card access for international healthcare professionals to address staffing shortages, especially if immigration policy changes arise.
Next Steps
These next steps can help healthcare staffing organizations and healthcare facilities remain proactive amid regulatory shifts, workforce shortages, and technological advancements.
For additional information on staffing and workforce solutions, visit Staffing Industry Analysts.
For healthcare information, visit the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
For information on how to manage your healthcare workforce, reach out today.
