Ep. 38| Navigating the Physician Shortage Crisis: The Growing Importance of Locum Tenens
In this episode of Elevate Care, host Liz Cunningham sits down with Patrick Hemstreet, Senior Director of Strategy at AMN Healthcare, to tackle the pressing issue of the physician shortage crisis. Together, they explore the evolving role of locum tenens in healthcare staffing, the impact of workforce technology and VMS systems, and how advancements in AI and automation are reshaping the industry. From the challenges of credentialing to the opportunities for younger physicians, this episode dives deep into the strategies and innovations needed to address the growing demand for healthcare professionals.
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Timestamps
00:00 - Understanding the Physician Shortage Crisis
02:56 - The Role of Locum Tenens in Healthcare Staffing
05:51 - Workforce Technology and VMS in Healthcare
09:03 - The Future of Locum Tenens and Physician Staffing
11:55 - Leveraging Technology for Efficient Staffing
14:45 - Navigating Challenges in Locum Tenens Management
17:51 - The Impact of AI and Data on Healthcare Staffing
20:50 - Trends and Innovations in Physician Shortages
About Patrick
Patrick Hemstreet is a distinguished healthcare executive with over 20 years of leadership experience, currently serving as Senior Director of Strategy at AMN Healthcare, a leader in innovative talent solutions for healthcare organizations. Patrick is known for his technology expertise. Patrick has driven innovations around cutting-edge solutions, including AI applications, Vendor Management Systems (VMS), and workforce optimization platforms. He leads multiple market intelligence programs at AMN Healthcare. Patrick has held various positions as a healthcare executive including Chief Strategy Officer and President. Patrick was involved in the envisioning and building of early gen healthcare SaaS platforms that provided telehealth, EHR, and billing throughput functionalities. Patrick holds an MBA from Texas Tech University, multiple healthcare certifications (including the certification in intraoperative neurophysiologic monitoring), and is a published sci-fi author and former U.S. Navy member.
About Liz
Liz Cunningham, Vice President of Digital Solutions at AMN Healthcare since 2020, drives digital transformation for a seamless user experience powered by self-service, AI, and automation. She manages a diverse team of senior leaders and team members across product management, digital marketing, engineering, analytics, and user experience. In 2023, Liz also assumed the role of transforming AMN's enterprise customer support department, implementing new technology and a streamlined operating model.
In her 11-year tenure with AMN, Liz has taken on various roles, from heading AMN's clinician strategy during COVID-19 response to leading enterprise operations and branding for the Healthcare Staffing Divisions. Presently, Liz leads her team in managing the industry-leading healthcare professional application, AMN Passport, and spearheads new digital experience platforms, fostering digital-first engagements for clients and candidates.
Outside of work, Liz is dedicated to innovation and entrepreneurship. As a Board Member for the ZIP Launch Pad, a San Diego State-funded Innovation center, she actively champions early-stage startups founded by SDSU students and faculty. In her free time, Liz is cultivating a unique passion for cheese and is working towards becoming a cheese monger, adding a flavorful layer to her diverse interests.
