By Mackenna Moralez

The ongoing labor shortage has become a top concern for healthcare executives as workers are quitting in large numbers, citing burnout, lack of flexibility, low wages and general health and safety concerns because of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Healthcare officials are turning to new and innovative measures to recruit and retain staff so patient care is not compromised. 

The University of Pennsylvania recently announced the Leonard A. Lauder Community Care Nurse Practitioner Program, which will recruit and prepare expert nurse practitioners to provide primary care to those in underserved communities across the country The $125 million donation by Leonard A. Lauder will create the first-of-its-kind, tuition-free program.  

“This is the most timely and consequential gift not only for our university, but for our country,” says Amy Gutmann, the university’s former president. “It is unprecedented in its potential to address America’s most critical need of providing primary healthcare to all who currently lack it by investing in nurses. Growing the number of nurse practitioners who are prepared and committed to working in underserved areas is the most practical and inspiring way to ensuring a healthier country.” 

Penn Nursing will select 10 fellows to begin classes this fall, growing the program enrollment through 2026 when it will reach its target enrollment of 40 fellows.  

Meanwhile, technology companies are building solutions to help combat the labor shortage as well. Kevala, a workforce management and engagement solution built specifically for healthcare, has raised $12.1 million in Series A funding to modernize the healthcare industry through innovative scheduling and compliance software. The software allows healthcare facilities to flex their staffing instantly as needs change.  

“The staffing crisis has made it difficult if not impossible for schedulers to keep shifts full, compliant and productive,” says Todd Owens, Kevala co-founder and CEO. “Healthcare operators, stretched thin and unable to rely on permanent staff alone, are looking for more flexible staffing options, including agency and internal float teams.” 

Mackenna Moralez is assistant editor with Healthcare Facilities Today.