A Challenge for Rural Providers

Overcoming limited number of staff and resources is challenging in rural communities. No model fits all organizations you must determine the best ways to recruit and retain talented staff to meet your unique needs.

Strategies to Overcome Health IT Workforce Shortages in Rural Settings

Consider implementing the following strategies to help your organization overcome health IT workforce shortages in rural settings.

  • Cross-train multiple staff members in health IT. When several staff members can perform multiple health IT functions, staff turnover will have fewer negative effects on your organization’s health IT capabilities.
  • Augment the expertise of existing clinical staff by providing opportunities for additional training in health IT. Consider providing clinical staff who demonstrate an interest or aptitude in IT tuition reimbursement or other incentives to obtain and enhance necessary skills.1
  • Seek new staff who will likely stay in the community and provide them with support for IT education. When recruiting and retaining staff from outside the area, emphasize the benefits of living in a small community, such as the low cost of living.2
  • Coordinate programs with local high schools, technical schools, community colleges and universities.3

For More Information

For more information on strategies to overcome health IT workforce shortages in rural settings, see the following FAQs.

References

  1. Health Resources and Services Administration. "What strategies can rural groups use to overcome limited numbers of staff?"
  2. Health Resources and Services Administration. "What strategies can rural groups use to overcome limited numbers of staff?"