On all levels, demand for HCPs is higher than it has ever been. Facilities are constantly looking for highly qualified and experienced Registered Nurses, Doctors, Physicians, and more. Between rising compensation and the advent of temporary HCP booking services, this soaring demand has drastically changed the healthcare industry as we know it. But why has the demand for HCPs risen so sharply? And what will this mean for HCPs in the long term?
The population is aging
According to the BLS, elderly populations are expected to steadily grow in the coming years. In comparison to younger individuals, they typically struggle with several chronic or recurring health problems. This includes joint pains, dementia, memory loss, diabetes, heart diseases, constipation, and more. This means that they will require greater medical attention from HCPs and various healthcare facilities. As the older demographic continues to expand, so too will the demand for healthcare services.
The workforce is aging
The aging population also affects the healthcare workforce, itself. As more HCPs begin to retire, the demand for healthcare workers will continue to rise. More senior nurses, doctors and other HCPs start taking less hours, as they continue to age. Eventually, they retire and leave healthcare work altogether. This leaves facilities scrambling to replace their contributions with younger HCP talent who may not be ready to take their responsibilities and contribute early.
Patients want to treat their chronic conditions
Although it is more common among elderly populations, they are not the only people who are concerned with recurring health risks. By and large, the populace is more conscious about the risks posed by chronic concerns. They want to seek continuous treatment and counsel for conditions like diabetes, obesity, cancer, arthritis, hypertension and many more. These patients are far more likely to make regular visits to the hospital or doctor’s office, which raises the need for more HCPs.
The industry as a whole is suffering from a shortage
All of America is currently suffering from a healthcare shortage, as a result of the pandemic. At the peak of COVID, facilities were understaffed and overworked thanks to the rise in COVID hospitalizations. This left many HCPs burned out and depressed, which led to widespread resignations. Though the pandemic ended, facilities are still struggling to make up for the lost manpower.
Nurse educators are leaving
Nurse educators are a vital part of healthcare. They train and instruct students and younger HCPs ,to prepare them for serious healthcare work. Unfortunately, there are not enough nurse educators given the demand. Given how important new HCPs will be, in resolving this ongoing problem, the nurse eductor shortage will make things more difficult.
What does this all mean for HCPs?
No doubt, the future healthcare landscape will bring its challenges. As long as facilities are facing these shortages, HCP work will be tough for even the most seasoned professionals. However, the current conditions come with their fair share of advantages. With demand being so high, compensation has risen accordingly. The average RN makes up to $81,220 per year, according to the BLS. Demand also means that while you apply for HCP work, you are guaranteed an offer or two if you are proven to be competent and experienced. For the healthcare workers who thrive under pressure, the current rise in demand may end up being a fruitful one.
