The first step to meeting the new demands of a modern workforce is by understanding them. Let’s explore how employee expectations have shifted in recent years, and what your clinic can do to adapt.
The demand for remote work flexibility was one of the most significant shifts in post-COVID work expectations. The pandemic forced clinics to adopt telehealth and remote work solutions rapidly, and many employees grew accustomed to those arrangements. While clinical roles likely do not allow for remote work, administrative and support staff often seek hybrid or remote options opportunities.
To meet these expectations, clinics should consider implementing flexible work arrangements where possible. This can quickly improve employee satisfaction, reduce commute-related stress, and help employees find the perfect work-life balance. Some employers might be concerned that remote work will reduce their clinic’s efficiency; however, the data suggests that flexible schedules actually increase worker productivity alongside happiness. That being said, it’s essential to establish clear guidelines and maintain communication channels to ensure that remote or hybrid employees remain engaged with the clinic’s missions and goals. Making your employees feel like part of the team is essential to worker retention, which is critical to any clinic’s employment strategy.
COVID-19 underscored the importance of employee well-being. Healthcare workers faced tremendous stress during the height of the crisis, leading to burnout and mental health challenges. The resulting loss of staff as people left the healthcare industry has led to chronic staffing issues, further increasing the stress on workers in the field. In response, employees now place a more significant emphasis on workplace wellness and mental health support.
Your clinic should consider investing in comprehensive well-being programs that provide employees with the tools to manage stress and access mental health resources. Maintaining a positive work environment where employees feel supported is equally crucial. To foster a culture of well-being, try encouraging open dialogue about mental health issues and normalize seeking help.
Health and safety in the workplace have always been a concern in the healthcare industry, but COVID-19 has made it even more important. Employees and patients alike now expect clinics to maintain rigorous safety and hygiene measures to keep everyone safe. Providing adequate personal protective equipment (PPE) and ensuring a sanitized environment should be top of mind.
Clinics should commit to safety by regularly updating and enforcing safety protocols, stocking necessary PPE, and conducting frequent training sessions on infection control. Demonstrating your dedication to staff safety will meet employee expectations and enhance patient trust.
The pandemic accelerated the adoption of technology in healthcare. Employees now expect healthcare clinics to continue investing in technology to improve patient care, streamline administrative processes, and enhance efficiency. Telehealth, electronic health records, and digital communication tools have become essential components of modern healthcare delivery.
Clinics should prioritize ongoing training and development programs to ensure employees can effectively utilize these technologies. Additionally, involving employees in selecting and implementing new tech can foster a sense of ownership and engagement.
The pandemic disrupted traditional work schedules and highlighted the need for flexibility in healthcare staffing. Employees are now more inclined to seek flexible scheduling options that allow them to balance work with personal responsibilities. This is especially relevant for healthcare workers with caregiving responsibilities or commitments outside of work.
Clinics can meet this expectation by offering flexible scheduling options, such as part-time positions, rotating shifts, job sharing, or compressed work weeks. These arrangements can help employees better manage their time and reduce the stress associated with rigid schedules.
While the healthcare industry has always valued skill development and career advancement, the pandemic has heightened the importance of these opportunities. Many healthcare workers stepped up to take on new responsibilities and adapt to rapidly changing circumstances during the crisis. As a result, they now expect clinics to recognize their efforts and provide avenues for career growth. Healthcare workers are interested in finding a career path to their dream job.
Healthcare clinics should invest in professional development programs, mentorship opportunities, and pathways for career advancement. Recognizing and rewarding employees for their dedication and adaptability can boost morale and retention rates.
The COVID-19 pandemic has reshaped employee expectations in healthcare clinics. As we move forward, clinics must recognize and adapt to these changes to maintain a satisfied and motivated workforce. But even if you’re focusing on your employees’ expectations, clinics can still struggle to find the employees they need to meet their staffing requirements. The shortage of healthcare workers is expected to last for years, and hiring quality employees who are invested in your clinic for the long haul will likely not get easier any time soon. If you want to find top-tier healthcare workers to staff your clinic without the expense and time commitment of hiring again and again, working with a medical staffing agency like MyTeam may be the answer.