Per diems have become increasingly popular, as more facilities are reaching out with per diem staffing requests, particularly with the upcoming holiday season approaching. Many facilities wonder about the advantages of per diems and how they compare to different staffing solutions. This blog is dedicated to answering those questions for everyone who has reached out, as well as for those who haven’t!

We will explore questions such as: In which circumstances are per diems beneficial? Are they more or less costly than contract nurses? How do they compare overall? Is it better to use overtime staff? What about a permanent float pool? If you’ve had any of these questions, keep reading!

Exploring time off: Do these circumstances sound familiar?

Time off comes in many shapes and forms, but whatever it is, we can feel left scrambling. Identifying the differences in PTO matters because it helps to develop a forward strategy. Generally, the focus should be less on the reason for the time off and more on its length, unit, and the frequency of such requests. These factors will determine which temporary staffing solution is most suitable for coverage.

• Staff time off
• Holiday leaves
• Vacation
• Peak patient times
• Last minute absences
• Other variable circumstances

Temporary staffing comes in many colors

Much like time off, there are various staffing models to fill the holes in your workforce, each offering unique advantages to meet your distinct demands.

Clinicians on Contract: In recent years, especially post-COVID, the temporary staffing market has shifted toward 13-week travel contracts. While these contracts can effectively cover extended absences and peak demand, they can be costly for addressing more sporadic or last-minute needs.

Overtime Clinicians: Utilizing on-staff members for overtime has always been a solid option to consider. Interestingly, it’s a first choice for many facilities, while for others, it’s a definite “nay.” However, this approach may lead to notable overtime costs.

Contracted Float Pool: Hiring a contracted float pool either for temporary contracts or on a long-term basis makes an efficient solution. Yet it also translates into incurring expenses for idle time to keep these clinicians employed when there isn’t a pressing need.

Per Diems: Although per diem staffing received minor attention in recent years, it has emerged as a significant trend thanks to its practicality and usefulness. Technology is making it easier to hire and assign these professionals. Per diem staffing agencies, such as White Glove, create a pool of experienced clinicians available for your facility. They assign professionals as needed, allowing your organization to pay only for the shifts actually worked.

Per diem staffing systems: White Glove per diem staffing change the game

Instant solution to fill your needs:

When it comes to covering time off, time is of the essence. At White Glove, we work quickly to step in to provide adequate staffing. Whether you know about the absence in advance or need last-minute coverage, we’re ready to staff at rapid speed.

Pay only for hours worked:

Per diems are the most cost-effective solution for time-off coverage. Why? You only pay for the time clinicians are actively engaged, eliminating costs associated with non-work time.

Seasoned clinicians who adapt quickly:

White Glove per diems are extensively trained and vetted for excellence. On average, they have 3 to 5 years of experience, allowing them to integrate seamlessly with your team. Furthermore, professionals who sign up for per diem jobs seek flexibility and thrive in quickly adjusting to new environments. Healthcare organizations consistently remark that White Glove clinicians feel like a natural part of the staff as soon as they arrive.

No contract commitment:

Flexibility is important in healthcare staffing. One week may see peak patient demands, while the next month might experience a significant decline of services. While analyzing past trends helps assess the future, it is impossible to predict need perfectly. Our no-contract commitment model allows you to use our services without being tied into long-term agreements.

Cheaper than travel contracts:

Travelers are generally paid more, and they usually work on 13-week contracts. Instead of having New York nurses travel to California and California nurses work in New York, local staffing solutions gives you direct access to qualified professionals in your area, which can help reduce overall staffing costs.

Local pros who get your culture:

Hiring local clinicians not only supports the community but also ensures that staff are familiar with regional healthcare practices and patient needs. Our clinicians understand the culture and expectations of your facility, leading to better communication and improved patient satisfaction.

Largest float pool of prescreened, qualified clinicians:

White Glove provide access to the largest float pool of prescreened and qualified clinicians. These professionals have undergone thorough vetting to guarantee they meet high standards of care. You can be confident that you are getting dedicated personnel prepared to offer exceptional service.

Per diem nursing agency + Allied staff+ Locum tenens:

Our staffing solutions cover a wide range of professionals, including nurses, allied health workers, and locum tenens. Whether you need a temporary nurse, a physical therapist, or a visiting physician, we have the expertise and staff to fulfill various roles, ensuring comprehensive support for your healthcare operations.

Healthcare float pool management: Stats that should grab your attention

• Per diems saves healthcare organizations over 80% by eliminating idle time; organizations only pay for hours worked.

• Per diem nursing agencies reported that the demand rose by 20% in 2023.

• 70% of nurses prioritize scheduling flexibility, encouraging more to pursue per diem roles.

• Over 60% of healthcare organizations are transitioning towards per diem staffing models.

• 75% of per diem clinicians have 2-5 years of bedside experience.

• Organizations that effectively utilize per diem staffing systems experience a 15% lower turnover rate, helping to reduce burnout among permanent staff.

Getting started with the top per diem staffing agency

• Reach out to our team to discuss your staffing needs.

• We will work together to create a temporary staffing strategy that best fits your company’s requirements.

• We will establish a float pool of clinicians in your area, ensuring we have qualified staff ready for immediate deployment.

• We will coordinate and schedule time off for staff in advance to ensure optimal coverage and minimal disruption.

• We understand that emergencies can arise. If you find yourself in need of last-minute staffing solutions, contact us right away. We are dedicated to providing support quickly to keep your operations running smoothly.

Not sure where to start? Book your free consultation

Are you thinking, “nice and all but will per diems really complement our institution’s staffing needs?” We understand your concerns. A solid staffing solution depends on your specific requirements. For a limited time, you can schedule a free consultation with our expert staffing consultant. Together, we will review your facility’s goals and determine the best strategy to help you move forward.