Workforce shortages were the single biggest challenge facing healthcare providers in the years before COVID-19. Exacerbated by growing waiting lists, low retention rates, high absenteeism, and now strikes, the time has come to think and act differently and to do so at pace.  

A recent draft of the NHS Workforce plan revealed that the NHS was operating with 154,000 fewer full-time staff than it needs – far more than the official figure of 124,000. It goes on to forecast, 

“Without any intervention or improvement in productivity, the workforce shortfall will grow to 571,000 full-time equivalents by 2036/37.”  

This is more than a third (37%) of the existing workforce. 

Audit Scotland’s report on the NHS in Scotland 2022 identified workforce capacity as the biggest risk to NHS recovery post-Covid (Audit Scotland, 2023). 

A recent (June 2022) RCN survey showed that 83% of nursing staff in Northern Ireland said that the actual number of nursing staff on their last shift was not sufficient to meet patients’ needs safely and effectively.  

In this context, the supply of contingent workers, both bank and agency, requires careful management and strategic decision-making to avoid a negative impact on cost and fill rates.  

One effective solution is to engage a neutral procurement partner who can navigate the complex terrain of limited supply, offering multiple benefits to help regional collaborations, ICB’s and individual providers overcome these hurdles. 

When demand exceeds supply, market volatility often becomes a significant concern. Pay and charge rates can increase rapidly, making it difficult for organisations to secure the resources they need at a reasonable cost. A neutral vendor like Retinue brings expertise in navigating such fluctuations.  

We possess a broad and deep network of suppliers, built through years of experience and collaboration. Retinue Bridge, our bank and agency management software allows organisations to tap directly into this network, and our supply chain teams ensure performance and relationships are actively managed. 

Our market intelligence and deep understanding of healthcare agencies allow us to identify optimum and alternative sourcing options, negotiate favourable prices, and manage risks effectively. By leveraging our insights and experience, we can support healthcare providers avoid cost creep and reduce financial strain. 

Where demand outstrips supply, acting as an intermediary and maintaining supplier relationships becomes even more critical. We foster positive relationships with suppliers on behalf of healthcare providers, maintaining open communication, managing expectations, and mediating conflicts. Our true neutrality, different from agency-led models, creates transparent and cooperative relationships with suppliers. This builds trust, improves collaboration, and secures preferential supply to protect supply. 

With thoughtful integration into an organisation’s permanent recruitment processes, we can also build supply chains that can facilitate the provision of fixed-term contractors, international healthcare professionals and staff on guaranteed hours contracts. 

Supply chain stability remains a concern across the sector, with significant changes through acquisitions and liquidations. We help organisations mitigate these risks by identifying potential bottlenecks, implementing contingency plans, and diversifying sourcing options.  

By partnering with us, providers can improve fill rates and manage costs despite the very demanding market conditions. 

Contact us today at enquires@retinue-solutions.com for a case study on neutral vend benefits.