Challenges in healthcare hiring: HR perspective

Abstract

This study investigates the human resource (HR) challenges associated with healthcare hiring, emphasizing the strategic role of HR in addressing workforce shortages, skills mismatches, burnout, and diversity gaps. As healthcare systems worldwide grapple with increasing service demands and evolving workforce dynamics, effective recruitment and retention practices have become critical. Using a qualitative case study approach focused on a mid-sized HR consultancy firm, the research explores real-world hiring challenges and HR interventions tailored to the healthcare sector. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews and document analysis, with findings analysed thematically. Key themes include talent scarcity, regulatory and compliance hurdles, limited adoption of recruitment technologies, and underdeveloped employer branding. The study proposes HR-centric strategies such as leveraging AI-based tools, enhancing diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives, and aligning employer branding with workforce expectations. These findings offer practical insights for HR professionals and healthcare leaders aiming to build resilient and sustainable healthcare workforces.