The Year of the Healthcare Workforce

Here we are two-plus years into the COVID pandemic. However, this week we’re taking a time out to recognize our members again during Hospital Week. It is an opportune moment to take stock of the year that has passed and remember how our frontline workers, hospital leaders, trustees and other stakeholders throughout the industry have both endured and triumphed. Not without some significant and heart wrenching challenges, of course.

Just months ago, we were being crushed again by the Delta and Omicron variants that gave a one-two punch to hospitals and health systems all across the country. The people in our ERs and ICUs, riding in ambulances, providing vaccinations and everything in between have been stretched to the limit. Each successive wave of infections and hospitalizations created more burnout and fewer human resources as our colleagues became ill and were sidelined.?

We know they wanted to stay in the game, but even healthcare professionals need time to heal. That is why the word of the year so far in 2022 is ‘workforce’. As in shortage, needs, innovations and solutions. We are laser focused on finding the immediate, near- and long-term strategies, along with our members, that can be supported and implemented with help at the federal level. There is perhaps no time in our history where the supply and demand for trained professionals is so pronounced.?

Failure is not an option. For the sake of all those who gained the education, certification and took oaths to care for the sick and improve the health of all, we see you and your sacrifices. We want to create an environment where your investment is rewarded with fulfillment and not exhaustion. There is no better service to your fellow man than to meet the healthcare needs of the loved ones that people care about. You truly are God’s hands and feet.

So as we stop to catch our breath and appreciate that body of work that has manifested over the past 12 months and look ahead to a brighter future for all of the people and patients involved, let's stop and say thanks to the next healthcare worker we see. Your smile and words of encouragement might be the only thing that carries them through another hectic and stressful day. Have a very blessed Hospital Week! www.aha.org/workforce-home