The hospital industry faces an unprecedented staffing crisis that extends far beyond typical HR challenges. Between 20% and 30% of frontline U.S. health-care workers considered leaving the profession during the COVID-19 pandemic, with about 117,000 physicians and 53,000 nurse practitioners actually leaving between early 2020 and late 2021. The industry has yet to recover from this mass exodus.
Compounding this workforce shortage is the aging of America’s largest population cohort. In 2024 alone, around 12,000 Americans turn 65 every day, and by 2030, every baby boomer will be 65 or older, meaning one in five Americans will be a senior citizen. From 2010 to 2024, hospital admissions for elderly patients rose by approximately 25%, reflecting the growing burden of age-related diseases such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, Alzheimer’s disease, and cancer.
This creates a critical imbalance: fewer healthcare workers available precisely when demand for hospital services is surging.
The Role of Pre-Employment Testing
In this challenging landscape, hospitals can’t afford lengthy hiring processes or early turnover from poor candidate matches. Pre-employment testing isn’t just a compliance requirement, it’s a strategic tool for filling critical staffing gaps faster and more effectively.
Mobile Health offers physical exams, drug and alcohol testing, TB testing, titers and vaccinations, and more, all customized directly to healthcare workers. This upfront investment reduces the risk of hiring candidates who may not be fit for the role, lowering the chances of early turnover.
Ongoing Occupational Health Services for Hospitals
Screening can’t stop at the hiring stage. Hospitals must conduct ongoing annual exams and compliance testing to maintain regulatory standards and ensure employee health and readiness. Services like respirator fit testing, online medical evaluations, and hearing or vision screenings are essential compliance requirements for staff working in high-risk healthcare environments. When hospitals streamline these mandatory processes with efficient, employee-friendly services, staff feel supported rather than burdened by compliance, and they’re more likely to stay.
Digital tools also help. Our Client Portal gives hospital administrators access to employee results and compliance documentation, while the Patient Portal allows staff to schedule appointments at their convenience. Less administrative friction means more time for patient care and less stress on employees.
Cutting Costs While Improving Retention
Turnover is expensive, with the average cost of turnover for a staff RN ranging from $49,500 and $72,700. Consolidating your compliance and health screenings with one provider can ease this financial burden. Mobile Health’s nationwide network of 6,500 clinics and on-site services offers hospitals flexibility and speed. With an industry-leading 1.9-day average turnaround time for results, hospitals can onboard quickly, minimize staffing gaps, and keep their best people engaged.
The combination of fast results, comprehensive occupational health services, and administrative support directly impacts staff satisfaction. Employees who experience smooth onboarding, ongoing wellness checks, and clear compliance processes are less likely to burn out or seek work elsewhere.
FAQs About Reducing Turnover with Occupational Health
What occupational health services reduce hospital turnover?
Services such as pre-employment physicals, TB testing, drug and alcohol screening, titers and vaccinations, and respirator fit testing all help ensure that staff are fully prepared for their roles. Supporting employees with these services builds confidence, safety, and long-term job satisfaction.
Why should hospitals invest in occupational health services for hospitals?
These services not only keep hospitals compliant with OSHA and DOH standards but also promote staff wellbeing. A healthy, well-supported team is less likely to leave, reducing costly turnover and improving patient care.
Mobile Health has been delivering occupational health and employee screening solutions for hospitals since 1984. By streamlining pre-employment testing and ongoing compliance exams into one efficient process, we make it easier for hospitals to retain the people who matter most, their caregivers.
Learn more about Mobile Health’s hospital-focused occupational health services.
