Addressing today’s healthcare workforce challenges: Results from a national study
A free resource to improve recruitment and retention.
The study, completed by 1,200 participants across the U.S., was conducted by global research firm The Center for Generational Kinetics in partnership with healthcare technology leader WellSky. Its primary goal was to gain insights into the perceptions, attitudes, and expectations that drive healthcare employment. The research offers valuable insights to help address and alleviate ongoing workforce shortages in the industry – through a generational lens.
Key findings
The dual reality of working in healthcare
Study participants believe in the mission, value, and importance of healthcare work. They also see a bright future ahead for younger generations. However, they recognize that healthcare jobs can be stressful.
80%
believe healthcare is better than other career options they’ve considered
84%
believe healthcare workers aged 28 and younger bring new strengths and perspectives to the industry
Helping others and doing rewarding work are seen as top benefits of working in healthcare
The reality is, healthcare work will always be demanding, but workers are drawn to the purpose, impact, and job stability it provides. By actively supporting workers in ways that matter most to them, leaders can attract, retain, and sustain a workforce that’s capable and truly committed.
Key findings
Technology is transforming healthcare
Innovation plays a significant role in the delivery of care. Study participants have strong opinions on what technology matters most, valuing tools that enhance outcomes, make the work of caring more efficient, and reduce burnout.
69%
of nurses say that artificial intelligence would be valuable to their job
90%
of healthcare workers and nurses agree care coordination technology is valuable
Culture counts: The real drivers behind healthcare workforce decisions
Respondents rate a positive, healthy company culture as a top factor when deciding whether to apply for or accept a healthcare job. Conversely, factors like conflicts with managers, micromanagement, lack of necessary equipment, and lack of scheduling flexibility can lead to early resignations.
A free resource to improve recruitment & retention
Explore healthcare workers’ understanding, perceptions, attitudes, and expectations of employment in the healthcare field, including key areas such as educational requirements, culture, leadership, technology, compensation, benefits, professional development opportunities, and advancement opportunities.
Continue the conversation
There’s so much more to learn! Explore additional content about the national study of the healthcare workforce, WellSky, and the settings of healthcare you’re most interested in.
CareForum 2025
Hear from Jason Dorsey — researcher, speaker, and co-author of the workforce study — in person at CareForum 2025, the premier networking and learning event for healthcare providers. Jason will take attendees on a dynamic journey through key study findings.
Webinar: Study findings
Dive into the most noteworthy and actionable information from the study — from anywhere — in this free, 45-minute webinar on September 30. Register now and share this webinar with your management team!
WellSky TeamEngage
WellSky TeamEngage, powered by Zingage, is a new innovation for home-based care providers aimed at increasing employee retention, reliability, and recruitment through gamification.
About the authors
The Center for Generational Kinetics (CGK) is dedicated to discovering new insights and solutions that drive measurable results for leaders. CGK’s Ph.D.-led research team separates myth from truth through original research. We have worked with over 700 clients. CGK is a trusted research partner and advisor to CEO’s, corporate boards, global brands, trade associations, institutional investors, nonprofits, and the media. We love sharing our discoveries and solutions.
Learn more at genhq.com
WellSky is a technology company leading the movement for intelligent, coordinated care worldwide. Our next-level software, analytics, and services power better outcomes and lower costs for stakeholders across the health and community care continuum. In today’s value-based care environment, WellSky helps providers, payers, health systems, and community organizations solve tough challenges, improve collaboration for growth, harness the power of data analytics, and achieve better outcomes by further connecting clinical and social care.
Learn more at wellsky.com
It’s about using the right technology to improve care
With software solutions & services for every kind of care in every setting, WellSky is the technology company that is innovating to make care better and more efficient for everyone.
Visit wellsky.com today to learn more.
