The healthcare industry is facing a growing crisis: a shortage of qualified medical assistants (MAs). This issue has become particularly urgent for medical practices, as many are finding it increasingly difficult to fill MA positions. According to a July 2024 poll from the Medical Group Management Association (MGMA), more than four in ten (43%) medical group leaders have hired alternative staff to cover open MA roles. This points to a significant challenge for medical practices striving to maintain quality patient care while grappling with staffing gaps.
Why the Shortage?
The shortage of medical assistants is a symptom of a larger issue. Since 2020, one in five healthcare workers has left the industry, and some 47% plan to quit within the next two years, according to a report from Forbes. The pandemic’s long-term impact, coupled with burnout and increasing demands, has driven many healthcare professionals out of the field, leaving medical practices struggling to keep their operations fully staffed.
Impact on Medical Practices
For medical practices, this shortage can lead to longer patient wait times, increased workloads for remaining staff, and even potential declines in patient care quality. MAs are crucial to the day-to-day operations of a practice, handling clinical tasks such as taking vitals, administering injections, and assisting with patient intake. Without enough MAs on staff, these essential functions become strained, impacting both patient satisfaction and overall practice efficiency.
Adapting to the Shortage
To mitigate the effects of the staffing shortage, many practices have begun hiring alternative staff, such as registered nurses (RNs) or licensed practical nurses (LPNs), to fill gaps left by MAs. While this can help maintain care standards in the short term, it often comes at a higher cost, as RNs and LPNs typically command higher salaries than MAs. Additionally, medical group leaders are turning to technology, such as telehealth services and automation, to reduce the workload on their teams.
How 1st Call Triage Can Help
At 1st Call Triage, we understand the challenges medical practices face during this staffing shortage. As a medical call center and staffing solution provider, we offer flexible, cost-effective options to ensure your practice continues to run smoothly. Whether you’re in need of temporary staffing to cover MA positions or require assistance with patient scheduling and triage through our call center services, we are here to support you.
By partnering with 1st Call Triage, practices can reduce the burden on their existing staff and ensure they’re equipped to handle patient care demands—even during a staffing shortage. We provide trained professionals who can step in as needed, allowing you to focus on delivering excellent care without compromising quality or efficiency.
Looking Forward
The medical assistant staffing shortage is a pressing issue, but with the right strategies and partnerships, medical practices can navigate these challenging times. At 1st Call Triage, we remain committed to helping healthcare providers thrive, even in the face of industry-wide shortages. As the healthcare landscape continues to evolve, we’re here to provide the staffing and support you need to meet your patient’s needs.
For more information on how 1st Call Triage can assist your medical practice during this shortage, book a 30-minute Discovery Call with us today. Let’s discuss how our solutions can fit your practice’s unique needs and keep your operations running smoothly. Together, we can find the solutions that work best for your team.
