St. Louis-based Ascension is deploying new technology and workforce development efforts to address long-term physician shortages and reduce clinician burden, according to a health system blog post.
The U.S. may face a shortfall of up to 86,000 physicians by 2036, driven by increased demand, burnout, and early retirement. To counter these challenges, Ascension has implemented solutions that aim to improve clinical workflows and support provider retention.
One initiative includes a partnership with Wellsheet, which offers software that integrates patient data into a single view and coordinates care team workflows. Clinicians using the platform have reported saving up to two hours per day in their workflow. Ascension is also adopting voice-to-note technology to reduce documentation time and free clinicians to focus on direct patient care.
“The role of a clinician is shifting, but we remain laser focused on getting the right care to the right patient at the right time,” the blog post states. “That doesn’t always have to be in person. To extend the impact of our clinicians and to serve more patients, we are aggressively implementing the next generation of virtual care solutions.”
Ascension has also constructed one of the largest residency programs in the U.S. with built-in support for transitioning into practice.
Ascension said these investments are essential to sustaining access to care and strengthening its clinical workforce amid growing healthcare demands.
“We believe that the future of healthcare depends on how we support those called to deliver it. Investing in physicians and advanced practice providers through smarter technology, innovative care models, meaningful engagement, and targeted workforce development is not optional,” the post states. “It is necessary for maintaining access, improving outcomes, and delivering compassionate care to every person we serve. If we are to meet the growing demands of tomorrow, we must act with urgency and purpose today.”
