Category: healthcare staffing

Strong leadership in a hospital is vital to ensure efficient and effective operations, promote a culture of patient safety and quality care, and guide healthcare professionals in delivering optimal outcomes, ultimately contributing to the well-being of patients and the success of the healthcare organization. Additionally, strong leadership provides a strategic vision, inspires and motivates the healthcare team, and fosters collaboration and innovation, creating a positive work environment that attracts and retains top talent.

What’s a Physician Pod Leader?

A physician pod leader is a healthcare professional who holds a leadership position within a medical practice or healthcare organization. The term “pod” refers to a small group or team of physicians, typically working together in a collaborative and coordinated manner to deliver patient care.

As a physician pod leader, an individual assumes the responsibility of overseeing and managing a specific pod within the larger healthcare setting. Their primary role is to ensure effective coordination and communication among the pod members, facilitate the delivery of high-quality patient care, and promote a positive and efficient work environment.

What are Key Duties of a Physician Pod Leader?

• Leadership and Direction: The pod leader provides guidance, sets expectations, and establishes protocols for the pod members. They help define the goals and objectives of the pod and align them with the overall mission and vision of the organization.

• Team Management: The pod leader is responsible for coordinating the activities of the pod members, including scheduling, assigning tasks, and monitoring progress. They facilitate regular team meetings, promote collaboration, and foster a supportive and cohesive working environment.

• Quality Improvement: The physician pod leader plays a crucial role in ensuring the delivery of high-quality care by monitoring and evaluating the performance of the pod. They identify areas for improvement, implement evidence-based practices, and promote continuous learning and professional development within the team.

• Patient Care Coordination: One of the primary responsibilities of a physician pod leader is to oversee the coordination of patient care within the pod. This involves collaborating with other healthcare professionals, such as nurses, nurse practitioners, specialists, and allied health staff, to ensure seamless and comprehensive care delivery.

• Communication and Advocacy: The pod leader serves as a liaison between the pod members, other healthcare teams, and administrative staff. They facilitate effective communication channels, advocate for resources and support needed by the pod, and represent the pod’s interests in decision-making processes.

• Performance Evaluation: The pod leader assesses the performance of individual pod members, providing feedback, mentoring, and support as needed. They also collaborate with human resources or administration to address any performance or disciplinary issues that may arise.

Overall, a physician pod leader plays a pivotal role in leading a team of healthcare professionals, promoting a patient-centered approach to care, and ensuring efficient and effective operations within the pod. Their leadership and management skills contribute to the overall success of the medical practice or healthcare organization in delivering high-quality healthcare services.

Sources:

graduate.northeastern.edu
healthaffairs.org
Openai.com

Stress—it’s a six-letter word that resonates with too many of us. In the healthcare industry, it’s especially prominent due to the demanding nature of the work. Healthcare workers often face high-pressure situations, long work hours, emotional challenges, and the need to make critical decisions quickly. They may witness suffering, trauma, and loss on a regular basis, which can take a toll on their mental and emotional well-being. The responsibility of providing quality care, dealing with complex medical cases, navigating bureaucratic systems, and managing patient expectations further contribute to the stress levels. Additionally, healthcare professionals may face organizational and systemic issues such as staffing shortages, resource constraints, and administrative burdens, which can exacerbate the stress experienced in their roles.

A survey of healthcare workers conducted June-September 2020 by Mental Health America showed that:

–          93% were experiencing stress, 86% reported experiencing anxiety, 77% reported frustration, 76% reported exhaustion and burnout, and 75% said they were overwhelmed.

–          Emotional exhaustion was the most common feeling healthcare workers said they felt over the previous three months.

Why is Work-Related Stress Dangerous?

Work-related stress can be harmful because it negatively impacts both the individual and the quality of care provided. It can lead to physical and mental health problems such as burnout, anxiety, depression, and increased risk of chronic conditions. Stress can impair concentration, decision-making abilities, and professional performance, potentially compromising patient safety (quite the opposite of the reason why most healthcare professionals seek these positions) It also affects personal relationships, job satisfaction, and overall well-being. Addressing work-related stress is crucial to ensure the physical and emotional well-being of healthcare workers and maintain high standards of care.

As a healthcare worker, preventing work-related stress is essential for your overall well-being and the quality of care you provide.

Here are some strategies that can help:

Self-Care: Prioritize self-care activities to maintain physical and mental health. Ensure you get adequate rest, eat a balanced diet, engage in regular exercise, and practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or yoga.

Set Boundaries: Set clear boundaries between work and personal life. Avoid excessive overtime and prioritize time for activities you enjoy outside of work. Disconnect from work-related communication during your time off to recharge and maintain a healthy work-life balance.

Seek Support: Build a support system within your workplace and outside. Communicate openly with colleagues, share experiences, and seek guidance when needed. Connect with friends, family, or support groups who understand the unique challenges of your profession.

Practice Mindfulness: Incorporate mindfulness techniques into your daily routine. Focus on the present moment, pay attention to your thoughts and emotions without judgment, and engage in activities that bring you joy and relaxation. Pencil in some time for meditation, even if just a few minutes a day.

Time Management: Develop effective time management skills to reduce stress. Prioritize tasks, set realistic goals, and break them down into manageable steps. Learn to delegate when appropriate and avoid taking on excessive workload.

Develop Coping Healthy Mechanisms: Create healthy coping mechanisms to manage stress. This can include activities such as listening to music, engaging in hobbies, reading, spending time in nature, or participating in activities that promote relaxation and stress reduction.

Seek Professional Help: If work-related stress becomes overwhelming or persists despite your efforts, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. Consult with a mental health professional who can provide guidance, support, and strategies to manage stress effectively.

Practice Effective Communication: Clear and open communication is vital in managing work-related stress. Express your concerns or challenges to supervisors or colleagues, and work together to find solutions or implement changes that can alleviate stressors in the work environment.

Reflect and Learn: Continuously reflect on your experiences and learn from them. Identify patterns or triggers that contribute to stress and explore strategies to address them effectively. Embrace a growth mindset and seek opportunities for professional development to enhance your skills and confidence.

Consider a Career Change with the Help of a Healthcare Recruiting Company

If you want to explore a healthcare career change, such as seeking a Locum Tenens position where you are able to travel to different locations for a set period of time, Momentum can help match you to the perfect company. Or if you’re seeking a better hospital or healthcare facility that meets your professional and personal needs, we can help there too. Contact us to get started.

Sources:

https://mhanational.org/

https://openai.com

When we visit a hospital, we are thinking about illnesses, injuries, and emergencies. Whether it be ourselves, or someone we love, a hospital is a place for fixing the physical problems we have. We take comfort in the fact that when we visit, we will be taken care of. This comfort is possible because of the workers that run a hospital. Doctors, nurses, assistants and myriad medical staff keep watch while we are mended. What we don’t think about when we are visiting a hospital is the mental health of those very workers. Not that it was a cake walk before the pandemic, but since COVID, healthcare workers have been under tremendous stress.

Since May is mental health awareness month, let’s turn our thoughts to the mental health of our healthcare providers and how their own workplaces can serve them so they, too, can stay healthy and happy.

Pandemic-induced burnout for medical professionals is a very real thing, says Healthcaredive, especially for female and infectious disease healthcare workers. Temporary nurses, cross-training staff, and “redeploying” office staff are just a few of the measures healthcare facilities have had to face due to burnout. This has led to a bulletin by the Joint Commission to encourage healthcare facilities to provide more mental health services, such as transparent communication within the workplace, says the article. The more open staff can be with each other, the better, says the article.

Combating Mental Burnout Through Design

Another way to combat mental burnout at work is to design healthcare facilities to already foster employee wellbeing, says Harvard Business Review. Record-high rates of anxiety and depression have run rampant among healthcare workers since the pandemic began, says the article, turning it into not only a problem, but a crisis. Making a healthcare facility to foster mental health was once designed only for patients, but now, it’s for the workers as well. At Massachusetts General Hospital, the Lunder Building offers what seems like simple tweaks to the everyday work environment but, in fact, turn out to be game changers. The building features staff-only stairwells with access to ample sunlight; a place where staff can come to be “alone together,” as well as decompress throughout the day. They also used sound-absorbing materials to create quieter sections in the building, which not only reduces stress, but aids in recovery, says the article. Noise minimizing extras like sliding doors and distanced elevators away from patient rooms were also added. Measures like this can help staff feel they are in a workplace that cares about them as well as the patients they serve.

Raising Awareness for Healthcare Workers

The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) is also working to address mental health for healthcare workers by raising awareness. Their aim is to lessen the stigma of seeking and receiving mental health care, improve screening tools, resources, and policies within facilities, says the CDC. They also aim to eliminate barriers to finding mental health care. No longer are the days of hiding mental burdens. It’s become widely accepted to seek therapy, talk to fellow co-workers, and take breaks.

This month serves as an important reminder to take care of yourself and others when it comes to mental health. Healthcare workers may seem like superheroes (and they are), but they’re also just people who do extraordinary things. Let’s be aware of mental health not only this month, but during every month to help the people that help us.

Finding a Better Work Life Balance as a Healthcare Worker

If you’re a doctor, nurse practitioner, or medical assistant seeking a better work-life balance, we totally understand. Good mental health is essential for your overall well-being. Momentum Healthcare Staffing can match you with the career that fits your requirements for a balanced life. Search our job boards for both permanent and Locums Tenens positions at a variety of healthcare facilities.

Healthcare workers are the backbone of the healthcare industry, working tirelessly to improve patient care and experience. They spend long hours, work hard, and often go above and beyond to ensure their patients receive the best care.

And that’s why healthcare professionals deserve to be celebrated and recognized for their invaluable contributions to the healthcare industry.

Healthcare workers are essential for quality patient care.

Healthcare workers are responsible for providing medical assistance to patients in hospitals and other healthcare facilities.

Nurses, Nurse Practitioners, doctors, and other healthcare professionals work together to ensure patients receive the best possible care. They focus on preventing, diagnosing, and treating diseases and injuries and help patients manage chronic conditions.

Healthcare workers provide crucial emotional support.

Patients and their families can experience high stress and anxiety levels during a hospital stay.

Healthcare workers provide a listening ear and offer comforting words to help patients and families navigate their healthcare journey. They also provide emotional support during difficult times, showing empathy and understanding toward their experiences.

Healthcare workers promote patient education.

Healthcare workers play a vital role in the patient’s learning process by educating them about their health and the importance of taking care of themselves.

They help patients understand their medical conditions, medications, and treatment options to empower them to participate actively in their health care.

Healthcare workers contribute to patient satisfaction.

Patient experience is the sum of all interactions between the patient and the healthcare system.

Healthcare workers give their best to provide high-quality care, ensure patients’ comfort, and meet their individual medical needs. They are an integral part of the healthcare team, and their efforts can influence the patient experience.

Recognition of healthcare workers’ impact on patient care.

Patient Care and Patient Experience Week is a time to recognize the critical role of healthcare workers in ensuring quality patient care and experience. It is an opportunity to thank them for their selfless dedication, honor their contributions, and appreciate their hard work.

Patient Care and Patient Experience Week-How to Celebrate

Some organizations usually offer meals, gift cards, or free therapy sessions as perks to acknowledge the tremendous job done by healthcare workers.

These gestures can help healthcare workers feel valued. Besides, healthcare workers need motivation because they work long hours in stressful environments, making the job harder.

Recognizing healthcare workers’ impact on patient care and experience week is thus crucial. It’s an opportunity to appreciate what they do and show that they are valued.

It doesn’t have to be a grand gesture; simple acts of kindness can make healthcare workers feel appreciated.

A simple thank you card can mean a lot to a nurse who is going through the day with little rest. Celebrating healthcare workers can be through social media appreciation campaigns, advertisements in newspapers, or even hospital banners that convey a positive message to healthcare workers.

Healthcare workers are the heart and soul of the healthcare system and are essential for providing high-quality care and a positive patient experience. We should recognize and celebrate their contributions during Patient Care and Patient Experience Week. Let’s show our appreciation to healthcare workers and celebrate Patient Care and Patient Experience Week together! If you’re looking to expand your team of qualified healthcare professionals who are well-trained and compassionate, reach out to Momentum Healthcare Staffing today.

With the ever-increasing complexities in healthcare, the need for the best healthcare team is paramount. A good team gives the best possible care to the patients and ensures efficient processes, cost-saving strategies, and a fulfilling work environment.

Building a successful healthcare team requires a strategic approach, starting with hiring the right people. However, that’s not enough; several elements need a keen focus to create a thriving healthcare team.

1. Create a Culture of Respect and Support

The best healthcare team starts with a culture that fosters respect and support. Healthcare is a high-stress environment, and team members must feel supported and respected to perform their jobs effectively.

A culture of respect and support fosters collaboration, nurtures accountability, and establishes trust. It creates an environment where team members feel encouraged to share their ideas and opinions and are more likely to work towards a united goal. Promoting communication, active listening, and openness to feedback is essential to cultivate a supportive culture.

2. Continuously Develop Skills and Knowledge

Continuous professional development is another vital ingredient for building the best healthcare team. The healthcare industry continuously evolves, and team members must keep up with the latest developments to deliver quality care.

Encourage your team to attend training programs, seminars, workshops, and conferences aligned with their roles. Support the pursuit of advanced degrees and certifications that increase knowledge and skills. Every team member should have a development plan that helps them achieve their professional goals.

3. Encourage Diversity and Inclusion

Diversity and inclusion are essential for building the best healthcare team. Patients come from diverse backgrounds and cultures, and teams should reflect that too.

A diverse group brings various ideas, perspectives, and experiences to enrich patient care. Promoting cultural competence reduces discrimination and fosters mutual respect. Creating a culture that actively encourages and welcomes diversity and inclusion is essential.

4. Define Roles and Expectations

Work leaders must define roles and expectations to build the best healthcare team. Every team member must understand what their roles are, the expectations that come with them, and how their roles align with the team’s goals.

Establish transparent workflow processes, standard operating procedures, and protocols. Setting individual and team goals can ensure everyone is aligned and working towards the same objectives.

5. Foster a Positive Work Environment

A positive work environment is vital to building the best healthcare team. A positive work environment is where team members feel valued, appreciated, and heard. A positive work environment reduces stress, promotes teamwork, and ensures employee satisfaction.

Hold regular team-building sessions, recognize achievements, and encourage a healthy work-life balance. A good work environment fosters productivity, collaboration, and better care delivery.

Building the best healthcare team starts with hiring but doesn’t end there. Creating a culture of respect and support, developing skills and knowledge, encouraging diversity and inclusion, defining roles and expectations, and fostering a positive work environment are all essential elements in building a high-performing healthcare team. A good team is not just about delivering excellent care; it’s about teamwork, collaboration, and fulfillment in work.

When healthcare teams are thriving, patients reap the benefits of quality care. By investing in your healthcare team, you not only create a fulfilling work environment but also contribute to improving the healthcare industry as a whole.

We Help you Find the Best Medical Professionals for your Team

Momentum Healthcare Staffing has its own super-star team: a group of passionate recruiters here to help you build your perfect group of healthcare professionals. As one of the most trusted recruitment agencies in the country, we connect highly qualified doctors, Nurse Practitioners, and medical assistants—both permanent and temporary—to fill your open positions. Whether you have a healthcare staffing shortage or simply need a hand to find the best team members, contact us: (877) 558-3782

Estimates show that by 2050, the number of Americans over 85 will be about 19 million. Nursing homes will need more help than ever from skilled Nurse Practitioners who love their job.

What are Nurse Practitioners, and what are their roles in nursing home facilities? How do their jobs differ from that of registered nurses and physicians? What are the benefits of working in a nursing home versus a hospital or doctor’s office?

Who Are Nurse Practitioners?

Patients often go to Nurse Practitioners (NPs) for their health needs rather than physicians. Nurse Practitioners bring a personal touch to healthcare that some physicians can’t offer.

NPs begin their careers as registered nurses (RNs). They must go on to complete a master’s degree, and some get a doctoral degree as well. They must also complete advanced clinical training outside of their nursing preparation.

Similar to doctors, Nurse Practitioners can diagnose and treat medical conditions. They also work with patients to manage their health and prevent diseases.

Here are some things NPs can do:

•     Diagnostic testing
•     Diagnosing & treating both chronic & acute conditions
•     Prescribing medications
•     Prevention education
•     Counseling

What Can NPs Expect While Working in a Nursing Home?

Nurse Practitioners are involved in all aspects of a nursing home patient’s medical visit. They don’t just act as medical providers for the patient’s physical health; they also care for the patient’s psychiatric health.

NPs work with nursing home patients whenever they need regular checkups. They also see the patients when they get sick and can discharge them from the nursing home.

The goal of NPs in nursing homes is to help their patients recover and keep them out of hospitals.

These are some everyday tasks in nursing homes:

•     Reviewing past medical history
•     Ordering, approving, & performing testing
•     Prescribing medication
•     Performing follow-up appointments
•     Developing a care plan
•     Planning for advanced care as the patient’s condition changes
•     Discharging patients
•     Performing reviews to get patients more time in the nursing home
•     Reviewing & signing documents
•     Educating staff members

Nurse Practitioners are qualified to perform many of the tasks that doctors can. They help take the load off of doctors so they can focus on other tasks that NPs are not qualified for.

NPs often work after-hours or on-call when the doctor is not working. They will call the doctor for opinions and support when needed.

Steve, an APRN, says Nurse Practitioners in nursing homes don’t usually have strictly set hours. As long as the NP sees their required patients daily and weekly, the facility is unlikely to track their total hours worked.

Nursing home work is often more structured despite not having strict hours. NPs generally have a routine to follow every day that they wouldn’t have in a hospital setting.

Despite having structure, NPs rarely get bored working in nursing homes. Rebecca Lee, a registered nurse (RN), says, “Nursing homes are basically a generalized internal medicine unit.” Nurse Practitioners see all kinds of conditions, offering variety to their days.

NPs working in nursing homes form a better sense of community with their patients. They see and work with the residents and their families regularly. NPs build relationships with these people that they wouldn’t get in other settings.

Conclusion

Michael Mileski et al. says that having Nurse Practitioners in nursing homes reduces the rehospitalization of patients and increases their chances of recovery. NPs respond to their patients quickly, spend lots of time with them, and perform more comprehensive evaluations.

In other words, Nurse Practitioners are invaluable assets for nursing homes and their patients. Besides that, they are often great places to work, especially for NPs who enjoy building long-lasting relationships with their patients.

Looking for the Perfect NP Opportunity in a Nursing Home?

Do you wish to work as an NP in a nursing home or similar environment? At Momentum Healthcare staffing, we help find your perfect job match. We are constantly adding new positions to our job board, from Locum Tenens to permanent opportunities. Please contact us if you would like us to help match you!

There’s a staffing shortage. That short sentence has been discussed at length and posted at numerous businesses across the country. Businesses are having a difficult time finding employees, but it’s not just the neighborhood restaurant or bookstore.

One of the hardest hit areas of this recent staffing shortage is the healthcare industry. This isn’t an altogether surprising fact. The COVID-19 pandemic put an enormous strain on the healthcare industry – and specifically the workers.

But as the world moves out of the immediate danger of the pandemic, hospitals and clinics around the country are still hurting for qualified workers. And the concern seems to be growing. The American Hospital Association (AHA) believes there will be a shortage of 124,000 physicians by the year 2033. And that’s just doctors.

The numbers get more daunting when the AHA looks at nurses and health aides. Adding in those professions, the shortage projection rises to nearly 6.5 million. And there will only be a fraction of workers to fill that void.

When facing those kinds of numbers, many people wonder what’s causing the shortage, and how can it be remedied? But first things first – the cause.

Reasons for the Healthcare Workers Shortage

The biggest reason for healthcare workers leaving the industry is just burnout. The demands of the healthcare profession are numerous. Not only are these individuals caring for injured and ill patients, but there is also the pressure of paperwork and administrative requirements.

Burnout was always an issue, but the rates grew exponentially during the pandemic. A survey was recently conducted on 1,000 healthcare professionals. Of those 1,000, 28% left the healthcare industry because of burnout.

If it isn’t burnout, it’s an aging issue. With the advancements in medical technology, the entire population is living longer. This means the population at large needs more medical care. But healthcare workers are aging as well and looking to retire. With an aging population and earlier retirement for healthcare workers, there is a big gap to be filled.

On top of the burnout and aging issues, many people feel that the pay is too low and the training is insufficient. The demands of healthcare are never ending. People who work in this field are often stretched to the breaking point. And, with such a demanding workload, many feel the pay leaves a lot to be desired.

Because of these reasons, healthcare workers desperately want to establish a work-life balance. They want to find the flexibility to continue their work in healthcare without losing themselves in the process. It’s a hard balance to strike for many people, even outside the healthcare field, but it’s that much tougher for those faithfully serving in healthcare.

How Can we Fix the Healthcare Shortage?

With the issues identified, it’s time for the healthcare industry to find ways to mitigate and improve the culture and environment in healthcare. How do you alleviate the burnout, improve training, and increase overall pay and benefits?

The truth is more creative than some might think. The first step is investing in technology that can alleviate the slog of paperwork. There are plenty of automated platforms or applications that can significantly minimize the amount of time a healthcare professional spends completing paperwork.

And in the same way, the popularity of telehealth options can increase flexibility and help establish a better work-life balance. Many hospitals and physicians are offering telehealth appointments, which allows those professionals to work remotely and step away from the work-place demands of the hospital or clinic.

The problems are many, that is true. But the creative solutions abound. It’s time to ditch the “old ways” of providing healthcare and invest in ways that continue to provide top notch care while maintaining the sanity and mental acuity of the healthcare workers.

Healthcare Staffing Company on Your Side

Momentum Healthcare Staffing is not your typical medical staffing firm because we focus on being progressive. We understand the challenges the industry has been facing regarding the increase in demands of qualified physicians and nurse practitioners. Please call our healthcare recruiting specialist to get connected to the perfect person for your open healthcare position whether permanent or temporary.

Are you looking for a temporary job in the healthcare field? Then locum tenens might be the perfect fit for you. It’s a great way to get valuable experience and make money without committing to a long-term position. Here are some tips for getting that perfect locum tenens job.

Understand Your Needs and Goals

Before beginning your search, you must understand what locum tenens job you want and why. What is your field of specialty work? Are you looking for a long-term position or a flexible one? What hours do you need?

Start with Research

It’s essential to research and ensure you know the basics of locum tenens, such as what kind of assignments exist and what type of compensation different companies offer.

Once you better understand what type of locum tenens job you want, it’s time to start researching potential jobs. Start by visiting different websites to learn more about locum tenens companies, their culture, benefits packages, and other details that may help you make an informed decision.

You may also consider joining online forums or social media groups related to the locum tenens industry to connect with other professionals who can offer advice on finding the perfect job for your needs.

It’s also essential to understand the legal requirements in your state or country and how they apply to locum tenens physicians. Understanding all this information will help you decide and find the right job.

Be Prepared For Interview Questions

Once you’ve decided to pursue a locum tenens job, it’s time to start preparing for interviews with potential employers.

During the preparation, practice common interview questions to define answers tailored to healthcare positions. Showing that you have done your research beforehand can go a long way in helping you land the perfect locum tenens position.

Create A Professional Profile Online

Creating an online profile is one of the best ways to increase your chances of being noticed by potential healthcare employers. Having a professional portfolio on sites such as LinkedIn can show employers that you are serious about finding a good position and have real-world experience working in healthcare settings.

Include details about any past posts held, educational qualifications, certifications earned, etc., along with links to relevant publications or accomplishments from past projects – these will help create a well-rounded profile that could make all the difference when applying for jobs.

Get Professional Help

If you still need help with the process after researching, consider getting professional help from a staffing agency or recruiter specializing in locums positions.

A good recruiter can guide you through the process, from searching for open jobs to matching your criteria and helping negotiate salary and benefits packages.

Finding the perfect locum tenens job may initially seem intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be. Researching will help ensure you know what kinds of assignments exist and what compensation is possible. Then you must create an online profile.

Once you do that groundwork, use resources like staffing agencies or online groups/forums to get guidance so that everything goes smoothly during your search process. Those perfect jobs will seem easy to find with the proper preparation and knowledge.

Momentum Healthcare Staffing: Find Your Perfect Locums Assignment with Us

If you are a doctor or physician seeking the ideal locum tenens job, please contact Momentum Healthcare Staffing. We match you to your perfect position based on your personal and professional requirements (yes, that means the right compensation, too). Search our medical job board now as we constantly post new Locums Tenens positions or call us now and a recruiter can help you: (877) 558-3782 

What Is Colorectal Cancer?

Colorectal cancer is a form of cancer that grows in the colon or rectum, which are parts of the large intestine. Typically it develops as a polyp or growth along the inner lining of the rectum or colon, becoming cancerous over time. 

Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer diagnosis in men and women globally. Approximately 1 in 23 men and 1 in 26 women will develop colorectal cancer during their lifetime depending on their overall risk factors. Preventive measures like regular screenings can help detect colorectal cancer early when it is easier to treat.

Symptoms of colorectal cancer may include rectal bleeding, changes in bowel habits, fatigue, abdominal pain, and unexpected weight loss. However, early stages of the disease may not show any symptoms.

Encourage Your Patients to Get Screened

The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends adults ages 50 to 75 should be screened for colorectal cancer. Here are some tips for healthcare providers to encourage and educate their patients to get screened for colorectal cancer:

1. Talk to your patient: Start the conversation by going over the importance of regular screening. Discuss the symptoms, risk factors, benefits of early preventative detection, treatment, and other options. Encourage them to talk openly about their health and concerns.
2. Go over their screening options: Patients may not realize there are other screening options besides a colonoscopy. Advancements in medical technology include visual or structural exams, non-invasive at-home tests, and multi-target stool DNA tests. Of course, there are also imaging tests using x-rays, and CT scans. Together, you can determine the right screening option for your patients. Use simple language that your patients can understand instead of medical jargon and terms that may sound intimidating.
3. Go over the importance of prevention and follow-ups: The best way to mitigate health issues doesn’t end with treatment. It’s equally important that patients understand the importance of follow-ups. Any abnormalities can be quickly detected and treated.
4. Offer educational resources: Patients can process and understand colorectal cancer with brochures and other reading material.

Like any medical procedure, the best way to encourage your patients to screen regularly is through consistent communication and education. Patients who are active participants in their healthcare plan are more likely to understand the importance of early detection and screening for colorectal cancer, which fits the goal for National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month.

Solutions for your Staffing Challenges

If you’re seeking staffing for any of your medical center positions, whether that is for a physician, nurse practitioner or even radiologist, Momentum Healthcare Staffing is here to help! We match the best medical professional candidates to fit your hospital, urgent care center or private practice needs. Call us to learn more: (877) 558-3782.

Shows like Star Trek depict medicine and medical procedures as easy and painless as an afternoon on a lounge chair. A doctor waves an instrument over the patient’s body and voila! All is fixed. Although we’re not quite that advanced (yet), we’re getting closer and closer. Medical advances in the last twenty years have included wearable devices, HPV and COVID vaccines, and bionic limbs, making medical procedures and healthcare in general faster, smoother, and less painful. Now, with the technologies of interventional radiology, patients can be treated for a variety of diseases, including cancer, without surgery, anesthesia, or pain.

Originally founded in the 1960s by Charles Dotter, MD, interventional radiology (IR) treats a variety of conditions, including stroke, transplant support, and cancer. These conditions and diseases are treated through minimally invasive, image-guided treatment that once required surgery, says the Society of Interventional Radiology. This example of modern medicine is performed by board certified interventional radiologists who are trained in radiology and in minimally invasive therapies, says the article.

The term interventional radiology may sound vague to some, however, a more in-depth description of what is actually done is this: to diagnose and treat many diseases, an IR can, in many cases, forego surgery and hospitalization by inserting various instruments into the body, says John Hopkins Medicine. Catheters, wires, x-rays, CT scans, and ultrasound technology help guide the IR to internally see the patient and treat the issue. The cuts involved in inserting the tools can be as small as a pinhole, says WebMD.

Interventional radiology is monumental in cancer treatment, says WebMD. By placing chemotherapy and radioactive medicines into the affected areas, it directly treats the disease, prevents bleeding (during surgery). It also aids in pain from cancer treatment side effects such as blood clots and fluid buildup, says the article. More amazing procedures IRs can perform for cancer are killing cancer tumors via heat through radio waves or electric currents, or freezing them with ice crystals. IR also treats conditions with blood vessels, kidneys, and gallstones.

Training to become an IR is extensive. IRs are medical doctors that are trained in radiology, minimally invasive procedures, radiation safety and physics, and must have a comprehensive knowledge of the latest procedures available as well as diagnostic and clinical experience, says Radiologyinfo. IRs can be hospital based, meaning they travel to and from a couple of different hospitals within their work week, and/or they can be a part of specialty group practices, outside of the hospital, says the American Medical Association. An IR usually spends four days a week treating patients, and about one day a week doing administrative work, referring physicians, consults, and completing notes, says the article. They have become an integral part of a treatment team within hospitals and private practices. 

We are living in an exciting time of medicine, where seeing and treating the body is becoming less about invasive exploration and more about advanced imagery. It’s not quite body scanners and needle-free hyposprays, but it’s safe to say we are learning and going places, medically, where no man has gone before.

Looking for the Perfect IR Placement?

Balancing work and life as an interventional radiologist can prove challenging. Finding a position that offers the compensation you deserve and the hours that allow you to have your own free time is important. Luckily, Momentum Healthcare Staffing helps match IRs with the best hospitals. Please contact us to learn more and be sure to bookmark our jobs page for the latest Locums Tenens and permanent placements.