The COVID-19 pandemic has caused healthcare staff shortages around the world. Healthcare facilities are struggling to keep up with the influx of patients infected with coronavirus. Now more than ever, locum tenens providers have been a valuable resource, providing a temporary workforce in this time of crisis. With an event like the coronavirus pandemic, locum tenens workers can be hired quickly and efficiently to ease the burden on facilities. But, facilities need to understand how to utilize these workers best and do so quickly in order to keep up with the healthcare demand. Below, we highlight a few best practices for using locum tenens providers both now and in the future.

Utilize proper onboarding procedures

It is more crucial than ever to have a detailed onboarding process during this time. Maintaining onboarding and training protocols will help new providers adapt quickly and know how to handle a variety of situations. Share key information about your facility to new providers and provide printed resources for reference. Also, make sure your full-time providers are clear on how they are to communicate with the new locum tenens hire. The faster you can onboard and train a temporary staff member, the quicker they can become a valuable member of your team. 

Keep all providers well informed

All of your locum tenens and other healthcare providers should be well informed of the needs of your facility so they can better serve the patients. Keep them updated on any changes to protocol, onboarding, treatments, precautions and other relevant information. Knowing this information will help to ensure there is no miscommunication and they do not mistakes that could lead to health risks.

Stay on top of licensing requirements

It is vital for hiring managers to stay well informed about licensing changes during this time. Licensing requirements for locum tenens clinicians change during emergency situations. The Coronavirus Preparedness and Response Supplemental Appropriations Act (H.R. 6074) temporarily loosens restrictions for practicing across state lines, including increased access to telemedicine. So, states can provide healthcare workers to other states that are more affected by the pandemic. 

The Federation of State Medical Boards (FSMB) has a list of states currently allowing physicians to work in their states with other state licenses or a temporary emergency license. This list changes daily, so please check back. Nursing boards are also issuing emergency or expedited licenses. The National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) provides an updated list of states temporarily loosening nursing license restrictions.

Find a quality healthcare staffing firm you can trust

During this time of crisis, it is crucial that all of your patients receive the highest quality of care. An unqualified clinician can cause serious issues within your facility. Do some research on the healthcare staffing firm that you are considering. Have a detailed conversation with the firm to discuss the services its clinicians can provide. This list of qualities to look for when choosing a medical recruiting agency is a great place to start.

Finding a recruiting partner for your facility

The COVID-19 pandemic is one of the most difficult challenges the healthcare system has ever face. Fortunately, locum tenens providers are a flexible resource for filling in the gaps in the healthcare system. These temporary workers are lightening the workload for healthcare workers and allowing healthcare facilities to keep up with the flood of new patients.

Tinkbird Healthcare Staffing places talented locum tenens physicians, physician assistants, nurse practitioners and registered nurses across the country. For more information on how locum tenens can benefit your facility, contact us today.