Hospital leaders at the American Hospital Association Rural Health Care Leadership Conference in Orlando, Fla., showcased local initiatives to recruit and retain health care professionals.
Jefferson Healthcare in Port Townsend, Wash., addressed staffing challenges by creating nurse residency and workforce development programs, cross-training nurses, and developing apprentice programs, resulting in a 50% decrease in open positions.
Ohio County HealthCare in Kentucky improved work-life balance by transitioning nursing staff to salaried employees, resulting in financial savings and increased retention.
Hannibal Regional Healthcare System in Hannibal, Mo., implemented sign-on bonuses and educational assistance programs, while also training and employing students and those with disabilities, leading to innovative workforce solutions.
Sanford Wheaton Medical Center in Minn. hosts Scrubs Camp to inspire high school students to pursue health care careers, leading to increased interest in nursing and other programs.
Bothwell Regional Health Center in Sedalia, Mo., addressed physician shortages by partnering with the University of Missouri to develop a Rural Scholars Program, resulting in reduced attrition and increased recruitment of family medicine physicians.