Flexible Staffing Model Here to Stay

As hard-to-fill jobs continue to be, yes, hard to fill, the flexible staffing model is becoming the new norm for certain health professions. The locum tenens staffing model, offering flexibility and the freedom of movement, has formed career choices for an increasing number of professionals including physical therapists (PT) and physicians.

It is not uncommon for a PT to work three or more rehab centers at the same time — and this may hold true for physicians as well. PTs and physicians enjoying this model work well for vacant positions or other flex-hour staff positions. The arrangement creates a “win-win” situation for the practitioner and the business. These health professionals make their own hours, are well compensated and have time for other important interests in their lives. Businesses get the coverage they need and the patients are satisfied with the care they receive because attending physicians or therapists are the least stressed and much happier.

Health reform and changes in the marketplace are drivers for the growing appreciation for these locum tenens staffing models. As physicians opt out of private practice due to prohibitive costs and become employed in hospitals and large medical groups, the need for fill-in physicians rises.

There is a shortage of other health professionals, such as physical therapists, creating the need for more fill-in staffing. With increased prominence of flexible work schedules, moving into these roles has become especially attractive. With patient satisfaction directly related to a satisfied staff, introducing flexible work schedules may improve Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems (HCAHPS) scores, which would positively impact the bottom line.