Guide
The Comprehensive Guide to Building an Internal Agency
Maintaining full staffing levels is critical for hospital health, but COVID-19 worsened shortages dramatically. Hospitals faced skyrocketing contract labor costs and increased nurse overtime amid stressful conditions, leading to higher turnover. Many clinicians shifted to travel nursing for flexibility and pay. Even as demand stabilizes, staffing challenges persist, with ongoing nurse shortages expected to grow. The pandemic caused increased sick time, overtime, and use of agency staff, contributing to burnout and affecting patient care quality. Hospitals continue adapting with flexible staffing solutions and technology to manage these pressures and ensure safe, effective care.
