1. Today’s healthcare challenges require innovative strategies
LocumTenens.com contributed to this dialogue with our presentation, "Future-Forward Strategies for Access, Technology, and Clinician Support." Led by our speakers, Amelia Vietri, SVP of clinic-based surgery, and Miechia A. Esco, MD, PhD, MBA, RPVI, FACS, and moderated by Chris Harrop, senior editorial manager at MGMA, the session delved into recent research from LocumTenens.com and MGMA all about physician recruitment and retention across various healthcare settings. This research highlights the specific challenges facing rural, suburban and urban healthcare, walking through the motivators influencing providers’ practice location preferences.
The session discussed actionable strategies for maintaining patient access to care while healthcare demands are on the rise. Attendees gained visibility into strategies for workforce planning, optimizing access to care and investing in technology that modern medical groups and health systems are implementing to stay in the forefront of a competitive market.
2. Technology is evolving — and healthcare is, too.
Another major theme at this year's conference was the role of artificial intelligence in and how healthcare is embracing this rapidly evolving technology. Presentations showcased the integration of AI to improve operational efficiency, enhance decision-making on the clinical side and optimize staffing schedules. AI-driven analytics are helping organizations better predict staffing needs, while machine learning tools streamlining administrative tasks and supporting clinical workflows.
Additionally, the conference emphasized the importance of embracing staffing approaches like telehealth and hybrid arrangements. These innovative models have proven effective in addressing clinician shortages and meeting patient needs in underserved areas. Hybrid staffing, which combines virtual and on-site care, enables healthcare organizations to expand their patient volume, do more with less by optimizing resources, and provide high-quality care to a diverse population of patients.
3. New research shines a light on physician leadership development
A highlight of the conference was the Jackson Physician Search and MGMA whitepaper, Developing the Next Generation of Physician Executives, which examines the need for physician leadership development within healthcare organizations.
As more physicians express interest in leadership positions, organizations are increasingly focusing on curating career pathways that give clinicians executive responsibilities. The whitepaper outlines existing barriers to leadership development, and also provides strategies to help identify and support physicians with leadership potential. This investment is mission-critical for building a robust healthcare system guided by clinical expertise and committed to advancing patient care.
Valuable Resources and Whitepapers
Make sure to check out the resources and research to help guide your strategies for 2025 and beyond.