LoginAlmost one third of employed American healthcare workers plan to seek new employment during 2013, while 43 percent plan to begin a job hunt during the next two years, according to a new survey by CareerBuilder. Citing heavy patient loads, high stress and staff shortages, 60 percent of healthcare workers reported feeling burned out in their current position, while 21 percent reported being constantly or often feel burned out. Among those in the latter category, 67 percent intend to look for a new job during the next 12 months.
"Nearly half – 46 percent – of health care organizations said they have seen a negative impact on their organizations due to extended job vacancies," said CareerBuilder Healthcare president Jason Lovelace. "Long hours and juggling multiple patient needs are taking their toll on morale and retention. The survey shows health care workers are seeking a more manageable work experience."
Dissatisfaction among workers has lead to employee shortages for some organizations. Over a third of healthcare organizations report open positions for which they can't find qualified candidates. That rate jumps to 43 percent for organizations with more than 50 employees.
Given the recruiting challenges the high burnout rate represents, improving employee morale was the leading future priority at 34 percent of hiring managers. Retaining top talent, hiring skilled workers and offering competitive compensation packages were also common goals.