There remains an ongoing effort to boost workforce numbers at Kentucky hospitals. A targeted approach is being used in all regions of the Commonwealth.
The Kentucky Hospital Association is working with the Kentucky Chamber Foundation’s Talent Pipeline Management Program. The KHA has committed funding to hire five new regional managers. A report last fall showed a statewide hospital workforce vacancy rate of 17%. Hospital Association Workforce Development Vice-President John Hamm said the need for healthcare workers is increasing.
“As our population ages, Kentucky’s not exactly the healthiest state. Unfortunately, there are a lot of health factors…and so that demand keeps on going up,” said Hamm.
Hamm noted the most recent study showed a need for 5000 nurses. He added there are other opportunities for nurses including virtual healthcare, private practices, and insurance companies hiring nurses.
Sara Tracy is a senior manager in the hospital TPM for the Kentucky Chamber Foundation. She said her role used to include a focus on a variety of jobs, but now it’s healthcare only.
“This partnership is really really special because it makes it exclusive to healthcare…and hospitals in particular…so you don’t necessarily have a project manager that has divided attention,” said Tracy.
Hamm, meanwhile, believes there’s been some improvement when it comes to vacancies, but more will be known when the next report comes out in August.
Here's more with John Hamm and Sara Tracy:
** WEKU is working hard to be a leading source for public service, fact-based journalism. Monthly sustaining donors are the top source of funding for this growing nonprofit news organization. Please join others in your community who support WEKU by making your donation
