WHITE PAPER:
What is Your “Peak Season” Plan? How to Forecast Staffing Needs Year-Round
Peak seasons for Healthcare staffing can vary based on a variety of factors, including geographic location, type of Healthcare facility, and specific specialties within healthcare.
However, some general trends can be observed to help you create a “Peak Season” Plan:
- Summer Months (June to August)
- Seasonal Illnesses: While typically not as busy as winter, summer can see a rise in specific illnesses, such as heat-related issues, which can increase patient volume.
- Vacation Coverage: Similar to the winter holiday period, summer often requires additional staffing to cover vacations and leave.
- Back to School Season (August to September)
- As children return to school, there may be an uptick in pediatric visits and related healthcare needs, which can lead to increased staffing demands in pediatric facilities.
- End of Fiscal Year (June to September)
- Many hospitals and healthcare facilities experience increased activity as they try to utilize their budgets before the end of the fiscal year, which can also drive demand for staffing.
- Winter Months (November to March)
- Flu Season: The winter months often see a surge in patients due to flu and respiratory illnesses, leading to an increased demand for healthcare staffing.
- Holidays: Many healthcare facilities experience staffing shortages during the holiday season as staff members take time off. This necessitates hiring temporary or additional staff to cover shifts.
Healthcare staffing agencies often plan their recruitment and staffing strategies around these peak periods, ensuring they can meet the demands of healthcare facilities effectively. It’s essential for healthcare organizations to anticipate these trends to ensure they have the necessary staffing in place.
Contact your local ATC Healthcare Services team to help you create a year-round Peak Season Plan. https://atchealthcare.com/about/locations/
