Reduce Reliance on Expensive Contract Staff Models? DirectShifts Offers a Data-Driven Solution

The U.S. healthcare system is facing a staffing crisis of unprecedented scale. A recent report from McKinsey & Company predicts a shortage of 200,000 to 450,000 registered nurses (RNs) by 2025, while the demand for advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) is expected to surge by 40% in the same period. The Bureau of Labor Statistics paints an equally bleak picture for medical technicians, forecasting a 5% decline in the workforce by 2031. This translates to a potential loss of over 29,000 technicians in the coming years.

These aren't just numbers; they represent a direct threat to the quality and accessibility of patient care. Healthcare employers are left scrambling to fill critical roles, often resorting to costly and inefficient contract staff. 

Why a change is needed?

• A 2023 study by the American Hospital Association revealed that hospitals spent an average of $118,000 per contract nurse annually, a figure 35% higher than the cost of a permanent nurse.
  
  
• A 2022 survey by Staffing Industry Analysts found that the average hourly bill rate for a travel nurse was $133, compared to $48 for a staff nurse. This means hospitals pay an average of 177% more for travel nurses than their permanent staff.
  
  
• The same survey found that the average length of a travel nurse contract was 13 weeks, meaning hospitals could spend over $43,000 on a single travel nurse assignment.
  
  
• In some cases, the cost of contract labor can be even higher. During the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic, some hospitals reported paying upwards of $200 per hour for travel nurses.

The Hidden Costs

In addition to the direct financial costs, there are also hidden costs associated with contract labor. These can include:

•  Lower morale and productivity among permanent staff: High turnover and the constant influx of new faces can disrupt teamwork and create a sense of instability.
  
  
• Increased risk of medical errors: Contract staff may be unfamiliar with hospital protocols and procedures, increasing the risk of mistakes.
  
  
• Difficulty building relationships with patients: Patients may have difficulty establishing trust with contract staff who are only there for a short period.

DirectShifts offers a lifeline in these turbulent times. Our Internal Resource Pool model is a data-driven, technology-powered solution designed to revolutionize healthcare staffing, empower your internal team, and reduce your reliance on expensive contract labor.

Redefining Healthcare Staffing: The DirectShifts Difference

1. Cost-Effective Partnership: We replace traditional agencies' and contract staff's exorbitant bill rates with a performance-based model. Our fee is a percentage of the savings we generate for you, ensuring a transparent and mutually beneficial partnership.
   
   
2. Enhance Your Existing Team: We work collaboratively with your internal team to attract and onboard qualified RNs, APRNs, technicians, and other healthcare professionals – all at your established pay rates.
   
   
3. No Conversion Fees: When you find the perfect fit and want to transition a clinician to a permanent position, we celebrate your success with no additional charges.

The DirectShifts Tech Suite: Your Staffing Arsenal

Our comprehensive technology platform streamlines your entire staffing workflow:

• Branded Mobile App: Enhance your employer brand and attract top talent with a custom mobile app. Our app boasts a 4.8-star rating on major app stores and has been downloaded by over 50,000 healthcare professionals.
  
  
• On-Demand Scheduler: Access our 24/7 live scheduling support for seamless shift coverage across all roles. Our scheduler has filled over 100,000 shifts with a 98% fill rate.
  
  
• Credentialing Wallet: Simplify compliance management for RNs, APRNs, and technicians with a secure digital wallet that tracks expirations and sends reminders.
  
  
• Real-Time Mobile Timesheets: Streamline payroll for all staff with QR code scan-in/out for accurate timekeeping.

Why DirectShifts is Your Strategic Staffing Partner

• Proven Results: Our model consistently delivers significant cost savings and improved retention rates. We've helped clients reduce contract labor spending by up to 50%.
  
  
• Flexibility: You maintain control over your staffing process, pay rates, and the specific skill sets you need.
  
  
• Quality: We source and deliver highly qualified candidates across all healthcare disciplines.
  
  
• Technology: Our cutting-edge platform automates tedious tasks, freeing your team to focus on what matters most – patient care.
  
  
• Partnership: We're your dedicated ally, committed to navigating the complexities of healthcare staffing alongside you.

Embrace a New Era of Healthcare Staffing

The healthcare industry is at a crossroads. Don't let staffing shortages compromise the quality of care you provide. Partner with DirectShifts and experience a data-driven, technology-powered solution that puts you back in control.

Ready to transform your staffing strategy? Book a demo or contact our team today for a personalized consultation and see how the DirectShifts Internal Resource Pool model can address your unique workforce challenges.