From new scheduling tools to developing telesitting programs, health systems are trying to use technology to alleviate staffing challenges.
As the Great Resignation drives workers of all ages to resign from their positions, hospitals and health systems are turning to technology to help retain their employees.
Sioux Falls, S.D.-based Sanford Health partnered with tech firm Flexwise Health, to create an augmented intelligence software tool. The program uses predictive analytics and AI to schedule the right number of people 18 months in advance. A pilot of the program showed that the system worked with almost 90 percent accuracy compared to 60 percent with Sanford's previous scheduling process.
Detroit-based Henry Ford Health rolled out telesitting. A combination of cameras and bedside speakers that can observe and communicate with patients and report any safety issues to on-site nurses. According to the health system, telesitting can reduce stress on bedside nurses.
According to Eric Wallis, chief nursing officer at Henry Ford Health, this new program could be an attractive way for some nurses, who no longer want to work 12-hour shifts, to remotely monitor patients with dementia or mental health issues.