Policy Considerations for Staffing Agencies in Healthcare

This document is a report detailing the policy considerations for optimizing the use of staffing agencies within the Canadian healthcare system. It outlines the challenges faced by health service delivery organizations in maintaining and growing their workforce, particularly in northern, rural, and remote areas. The report discusses the historical context of staffing agencies in Canada, especially their increased reliance during the COVID-19 pandemic. It highlights the diverse perspectives gathered from a policy lab organized by Healthcare Excellence Canada, which included various stakeholders such as patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers. The report presents 14 validated policy options aimed at addressing issues related to value, safety, quality, and recruitment and retention within healthcare staffing. It emphasizes the importance of context in staffing decisions and the need for tailored approaches based on specific situations and urgency. The document serves as a resource for understanding the implications of staffing agency use in healthcare and offers strategic insights for future policy development.