HJAR Jul/Aug 2020

50 JUL / AUG 2020 I  HEALTHCARE JOURNAL OF ARKANSAS COMMUNITY HEALTH nursing practice. These positions can assess data that can identify and help populations with the greatest need. We have a unique opportunity to improve our understanding of infectious diseases, and the correlation with social determinants of health. Also, we must make sure that the workforce has ac- cess to sources that provide them with the latest research and guidelines, often at the point of care. As we think beyond the pandemic, will health informatics and health IT positions be attractive? The lingering fear of infec- tious diseases and lowwages are not a great combination. What can healthcare providers and organizations do to address the potential staffing shortage crisis? We must highlight to younger populations how healthcare is a mission-driven career field. We have seen that Millennials and Gen Z populations are very interested in participat- ing in social justice events and rallies. These young people are passionate about social causes and issues affecting communities. Serving our most vulnerable populations with complex and chronic health and social challenges can be appealing if we emphasize the impact healthcare workers can have on lives for years to come. It is also crucial that we have reliable and affordable broadband as a catalyst for rural communities to unlock economic develop- ment, innovation, advancements in tech- nology, workforce readiness, and improved quality of life. Modernizing infrastructure, building partnerships, and driving change are the keys to improving connectivity across rural communities. It is too early to tell the pandemic’s net ef- fect on service delivery in health and human service organizations. We know that every organization needs the kind of crisis leader- ship that protects the workforce and pro- vides the best likely infrastructure to serve consumers in a tough time. This crisis has taken an unprecedented toll on healthcare workers during this pe- riod. These healthcare professionals are on the front lines, enduring extreme work condi- tions and sacrifices to help infected patients and families. Many have worked overtime and witnessed patients before and after suc- cumbing to the disease. We must strategize together to recruit, retain, and reinforce the impact that healthcare careers have on com- munities, as well as patients. Findings frommultiple healthcare outlets make it clear that healthcare organizations must pivot immediately to reexamine the workforce. We must learn how to ensure cur- rent staff members have the necessary skill- sets for future pandemics. Improving coor- dinated services among local public health officials, and providing attractive and fair compensation is a start. Community Health Centers of Arkansas is willing to facilitate getting all of us in a room to begin the planning and discussions necessary to get ahead of the challenges that lie ahead. n