Introduction to ShiftMed Flex at UNC Health
UNC Health is taking a significant step forward by implementing ShiftMed Flex, a transformative solution aimed at enhancing workforce efficiency throughout its network. This innovative AI-driven platform is designed to improve shift participation by better matching healthcare providers' schedules with available shifts, ultimately reducing the need for expensive contract labor. As the healthcare landscape evolves, ShiftMed's technology offers a sustainable approach to managing internal resources.
The Impact of ShiftMed Flex
Since the introduction of ShiftMed Flex, internal float pool participation at UNC Health has doubled significantly, demonstrating the platform's effectiveness. Staff members have increased their average shifts from four to eight per month, leading to over 3,500 shifts completed. Such impressive statistics indicate not only greater engagement from healthcare professionals but also the streamlined scheduling process that enhances patient care operations.
Streamlining Workforce Scheduling
ShiftMed Flex employs its AI-powered Intelligent Routing™ feature, which prioritizes internal clinicians for open shifts before considering external staffing options. This method not only optimizes scheduling but also minimizes reliance on costly interim labor. The platform boasts a remarkable 90% match rate, allowing healthcare providers to work shifts that align with their personal preferences, thus promoting higher job satisfaction within the organization.
Real-World Application and Benefits
Leighanne Watson, Outpatient Clinical Manager at UNC Health, emphasized the advantages of utilizing ShiftMed Flex, stating, "The ease of matching clinician availability with posted shifts has been unparalleled." Discovery of real-time availability for over 300 staff members gives administrators the visibility they need to proactively manage staffing challenges and support clinicians in picking up extra shifts when necessary.
Maximizing Internal Resources
Workforce stability is often contingent upon an organization’s ability to maximize its internal capabilities while minimizing external staffing needs. ShiftMed Flex prioritizes building and sustaining these internal resources, thereby enhancing care delivery and improving departmental flexibility for both clinicians and administrators. This approach positions healthcare systems like UNC Health to maintain a more effective and dedicated workforce.
Future Plans and Projections
Building on the success seen with the clinic integration, UNC Health is looking to expand the application of ShiftMed Flex to its inpatient facilities. Furthermore, there are plans to create an external per diem staffing pool to bolster coverage across the health network. Such initiatives reflect ShiftMed’s ambitious goal of redefining workforce management in healthcare, achieving better resource allocation, cost savings, and elevated employee satisfaction.
Leadership Insights
Todd Walrath, CEO of ShiftMed, remarked on the changes in healthcare workforce dynamics, stating, "Hospitals must adapt by leveraging in-house resources to provide flexibility and cost efficiency." His insights underline the importance of engaging internal teams to foster a more reliable and sustainable workforce, particularly as healthcare systems navigate ongoing challenges.
Comprehensive Solutions for Healthcare
As part of its comprehensive offerings, ShiftMed provides advanced functionalities such as mobile credentialing, onboarding support, instant payment options, and the integration of transportation services like Uber. These features eliminate barriers that may hinder staff from taking on additional shifts, fostering an environment that advocates for enhanced employee involvement.
About ShiftMed and UNC Health
ShiftMed stands as a leader in healthcare workforce technology, with solutions tailored for acute, post-acute, and surgical settings. The emphasis on prioritizing internal staff promotes flexibility and reduces dependency on outside labor, effectively saving hospitals over $250 million annually in contract labor costs.
UNC Health is an essential entity that aligns with the University of North Carolina system, operating numerous hospitals and clinics with a mission to improve the health of the community. They strive to not only provide top-notch healthcare but also contribute to the education of future medical professionals.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is ShiftMed Flex and how does it work?
ShiftMed Flex is an AI-driven platform designed to enhance workforce management by efficiently matching clinician availability with shifts while prioritizing internal resources.
What benefits have been seen since implementing ShiftMed Flex?
Since its launch, UNC Health has reported doubled participation in its internal float pool and increased shift completions, signaling improved staff engagement and efficiency.
How does ShiftMed Flex reduce dependence on external labor?
The platform focuses on utilizing internal resources first, enabling healthcare providers to fill shifts internally before resorting to contract workers, thus lowering costs.
What features contribute to the efficiency of ShiftMed Flex?
Key features include AI-powered Intelligent Routing™, mobile credentialing, instant payment methods, and integration with transportation services to assist clinicians in their work.
What are the future expansion plans for ShiftMed Flex at UNC Health?
UNC Health intends to expand ShiftMed Flex to inpatient settings and develop an external staffing pool to further enhance care delivery across the network.
