Lexology January 16, 2024
Behavioral Health Workforce Crisis Amid Surging Demand
Healthcare systems are facing significant challenges in recruiting and retaining talent within the burgeoning field of behavioral health services, primarily due to competition from telehealth providers and inconsistent reimbursement policies. The country is faced with a shortage of clinical providers, largely because many are approaching retirement age, while the demand for mental health services continues to surge. In response to these issues, healthcare systems are implementing several strategies. They are creating pipelines for behavioral health specialists by offering training programs and promoting careers in the field at educational institutions. Financial incentives, such as student loan repayment programs, are being used to attract and retain talent, while increased pay and work-from-home options are being...