WellSpan Health today announces the growth of its WellStaffed™ program of floating nurses across its regional health system to address urgent patient care needs at each hospital while also providing professional growth opportunities and expanded skill set for the participating nurses. The program which operates across WellSpan hospitals was born out of an approach utilized at WellSpan York Hospital during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Based on the success of that effort we have expanded the program to take a systemwide approach that includes nurses from all corners of the counties we serve,” said Bob Batory, senior vice president and chief human resources officer for WellSpan Health. “It’s about finding a better way to attract and retain the most talented nurses amidst a shortage that is impacting all health systems and the labor market in general.”
WellStaffed™ is a growing pool of 52 dedicated team members. They include both registered nurses as well as certified nursing assistants. Most are internal hires, but 12 are new to the organization, inspired by the opportunity to support various specialties such as behavioral health and emergency medicine, expanding their nursing skill set.
“WellStaffed™ takes my previous experience of a float pool to a whole other level. I love this program because it allows you the opportunity to find out what your passion is,” explained Ruth Brainerd, a registered nurse on the team who also is a nurse instructor. “The flexibility in my schedule allows me to continue as a nurse instructor and also share more ideas from my experiences with my students.”
The program began in September of 2021 and supports hospitals across WellSpan’s South Central Pennsylvania footprint. These WellSpan employees receive full benefits, and the program helps retain the talented nurses within the organization as a growth opportunity.
“I love WellStaffed™ because it allows you to switch environments through different assignments you take on. Each entity brings a fresh start along with its own unique and different patient population,” said Rachel Mylin, a WellStaffed™ registered nurse.
The program does not replace current hospital float pools, which are intended to cover daily staffing needs as the WellStaffed™ team can cover multiweek assignments as part of their duties.
Nurses interested in exploring career opportunities at WellSpan Health can visit www.JoinWellSpan.org.
