How Technology is Simplifying Locum Tenens Management
Based on recent reports, at least 80 percent of healthcare facilities experience staffing gaps and shortages at times. Of those, between 65 and 90 percent turn to locum tenens providers to lessen the effects of inadequate staffing and lighten the burden it leaves on existing staff members. Locum tenens providers can help during times of increased patient volume and in areas where access to specialist care or other needs is limited. They can also allow permanent staff members to take medical leaves and vacations without placing excess strain on permanent team members.
Though most healthcare facilities understand the many advantages of bringing in locum tenens providers to bridge staffing gaps, quite a few are also well aware that they’re not reaping the full benefits these medical professionals have to offer. That’s largely due to inefficient and inadequate locum tenens processes. Fortunately, several types of software to manage locum tenens are available to remove those hurdles.
Scheduling Software
For one, healthcare facilities can use scheduling software to better manage their locum tenens providers as well as their permanent staff members. This type of software can show users where they’re experiencing staffing gaps and helps them secure temporary providers based on their distinct needs. It can cross-reference providers’ scheduling preferences against medical facilities’ requirements to aid in finding locum tenens who best fit their situations.
This software also helps with avoiding scheduling conflicts and other potential problems. Some solutions allow staff members to request shift changes and time off when needed. This software can be integrated with payroll and other systems as well. It automates much of the scheduling process and often comes with reporting and analytics features.
Credentialing Software
Credentialing software is an exceptionally helpful tool for medical facilities. Credentialing is a major component of the hiring process. It can also be one of the most complicated and time-consuming aspects. Credentialing software handles the steps involved on behalf of its users. It stores essential locum tenens provider data, including license and certification information, malpractice insurance coverage, education, and references. From there, it automates the process of verifying credentials and ensuring compliance.
Onboarding Platforms
Onboarding platforms can be particularly essential as well. Many locum tenens providers say that inadequate onboarding systems are the main hurdles that keep them from quickly and successfully integrating into medical facilities’ teams. Solutions are available with in-depth, streamlined modules that improve the orientation process. They also offer tracking and documentation, integration with EHR privileging systems, and other features to make the onboarding process more effective.
Vendor Management Systems
Healthcare facilities also find vendor management systems to be highly effective. These platforms offer an array of features and benefits to help them manage their locum tenens providers. They cover finding candidates, vetting, credentialing, compliance, onboarding, contracts, payments, and many other points to ensure no important details are left out of the mix. They can also offer reporting and analytics capabilities to help users track their locum tenens’ performance and plan for upcoming staffing needs along with other factors.
Facilitating Locum Tenens Management
Although many medical facilities are aware that locum tenens providers can bring them numerous benefits, many struggle to reap the full rewards. Difficulties with background checks, credentialing, scheduling, onboarding, and other matters tend to be significant hurdles for them. Technology is simplifying the process to help healthcare facilities make the most of locum tenens providers’ services.
