The staffing mandate introduced by CMS last September has been the talk of long-term care ever since. While many people in the nursing care sector have a lot to say about the requirements, there is no doubt that the new regulations are designed to bring about positive changes. That’s not to say the mandate won’t be challenging, however. Providers in long-term care are now under immense pressure to not only find employees, but to implement effective training practices and place an emphasis on retention.
Although nursing home staffing has always been a concern, the current mandate makes it crucial for providers to excel. There is an urgency to create quality workforces and, therefore, to improve recruitment, onboarding, and employment practices.
The health sector has found that in addition to pressures from the staffing mandate, rising wages and intense competition also exist. However, the good news is that innovative solutions are available to improve staffing. In addition to traditional recruiting methods, businesses are now offering strong value propositions and career opportunities.
Empira in Minnesota recently developed a new Human Resources model that uses state funds to hire onboarding and retention specialists for each facility. In doing so, the specialists can strive to improve employee retention rates. This strategy can likely help countless other facilities.
Focusing on retention and onboarding is imperative to the success of these facilities. With pressure to meet the CMS requirements, providers must focus on onboarding processes and creating a lasting impression on candidates. A survey found that 50% of those who reported a good onboarding experience did not feel a warm welcome. Therefore, providers must prioritize fostering good relations as well.
The CMS staffing mandate may create intense pressure and high standards in the long-term care community, yet it is designed to ensure that the best quality of care is being given. The requirements will also enhance recruitment and retention practices. While some may feel that the mandate presents too many pressures and challenges, it is important to be reminded that the requirements are necessary to give residents the care and treatment that they deserve.
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Source
Berklan, James M. “Why Providers Should Be Thankful for the Federal Staffing Mandate.” McKnight’s Long-Term Care News, 7 June 2024, www.mcknights.com/daily-editors-notes/why-providers-should-be-thankful-for-the-federal-staffing-mandate/.
