Wander Staffing, a Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB), is dedicated to bridging critical staffing gaps in healthcare, especially within underserved communities. Founded in 2018 by a retired Army Nurse Anesthetist, Wander Staffing combines a deep understanding of healthcare operations with a mission-driven approach to ensure quality care for military members, Veterans, and their families.
This case study highlights Wander Staffing’s successful partnership with the VA Illiana Health Care System (VAIHCS) in Danville, Illinois, addressing the system’s long-standing staffing challenges in the Anesthesia and Surgical Department.
What is VA Illiana Health Care System?
The VA Illiana Health Care System serves Veterans across central Illinois, providing comprehensive medical care and support. Located in a rural area, the facility faced unique challenges in attracting and retaining skilled healthcare professionals, especially in specialized roles like Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs).
The Challenge
VAIHCS had struggled to fill two CRNA positions due to its remote location and the broader healthcare workforce crisis intensified by the COVID-19 pandemic. Prolonged vacancies risked disruptions in critical anesthesia services, potentially delaying surgeries and impacting patient outcomes. Despite extensive advertising, the facility received little interest from qualified candidates, necessitating an alternative approach to recruitment.
The Solution
Wander Staffing’s response was both rapid and comprehensive, demonstrating its expertise in addressing complex staffing needs. Key actions included:
- Swift Candidate Presentation: Within 48 hours of being awarded the contract, Wander Staffing presented five highly qualified CRNA candidates for selection, exceeding the client’s expectations.
- Innovative Staffing Model: Implemented a flexible model where one full-time equivalent (FTE) position was split between two part-time CRNAs, ensuring seamless coverage during planned and unplanned absences.
- Streamlined Onboarding: Expedited credentialing and onboarding processes to ensure immediate availability of selected candidates.
- Retention Strategies: Maintained consistent retention of all three CRNAs placed on the project, while also building a reserve pool of professionals ready to step in if needed.
- Hands-On Management: Provided ongoing management and support to the CRNAs, ensuring their integration into the VAIHCS team and addressing any operational challenges promptly.
The Impact
Wander Staffing’s intervention resulted in measurable and qualitative improvements, reinforcing its reputation for operational excellence:
- 100% Position Fill Rate: Successfully filled the long-vacant CRNA positions within days, resolving a critical staffing gap.
- Enhanced Service Continuity: The innovative staffing model eliminated coverage gaps, ensuring uninterrupted anesthesia services for VAIHCS patients.
- Improved Recruitment Efficiency: The speed and quality of recruitment set a new benchmark for the facility, highlighting Wander Staffing’s capabilities.
- Client Satisfaction: The Anesthesia Department praised the flexibility and reliability of the staffing model, which aligned seamlessly with their operational needs.
This case study exemplifies Wander Staffing’s ability to address critical healthcare staffing challenges through innovation, expertise, and a commitment to quality care. By partnering with organizations like VAIHCS, Wander Staffing not only fills vacancies but ensures that Veterans receive the highest standard of medical care.
For contractors seeking reliable staffing solutions and professionals looking for meaningful opportunities, Wander Staffing is a proven partner dedicated to making a difference.
Learn more about Wander Staffing here.