MADISON, Wis. (WRN) — About 9% of Wisconsin hospital jobs are vacant.
That’s according to a newly released report by the Wisconsin Hospital Association. Job vacancies are down from nearly 10% a year ago, but Wisconsin’s workforce shortage remains a challenge as Baby Boomers retire and increase the demand for health care.
The report recommends expanded health care career pathway programs, more flexible reimbursement models and technology support for telehealth monitoring and home care. Similar steps were recommended last year by a task force appointed by Governor Tony Evers.
Of 18 job categories assessed, certified registered nurse anesthetists [uh-NES-thuh-tuhsts] have the highest vacancy rate, at 13.8% followed by surgical technicians, respiratory therapists, advance practice nurses and certified nursing assistants, all with vacancy rates of 11.2% or more. The vacancy rate for registered nurses, who make up about half of the hospital workforce, is 9.1%.
