Hidden benefits of using local vs travel labor
When hospitals leverage a pool of local labor, they unlock significant advantages. Unlike travel nurses, local staff don’t require subsidies for lodging, meals, or transportation, offering immediate cost savings. Additionally, local workers are far more likely to transition into full-time roles, providing long-term value.
In 2024 alone, over 3,000 nurses were hired into full-time positions after working in on-demand float pools. This approach creates a win-win scenario: nurses can “test drive” the work environment, while health systems evaluate whether they’re a good fit for the team.
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Best of all, these seamless conversions come at no additional cost because the nurses are already integrated into the system—eliminating the need for recruitment through costly staffing or travel agencies. On-demand platforms make this process efficient, simplifying shift scheduling and enabling healthcare facilities to build pools of “preferred” local per-diem nurses—experienced professionals already familiar with the facility’s protocols and workflows.
Many per diem nurses are highly experienced in their respective specialties, which allows them to easily integrate into a variety of clinical settings. A recent survey conducted by a healthcare facility using a marketplace platform for per diem nursing revealed that 90% of shifts were filled by returning staff, ensuring consistency and continuity in patient care. The survey also highlighted that 80% of per diem nurses had over five years of experience, with half possessing more than a decade of expertise.
The future of per diem nursing
Per diem and on-demand staffing are poised for significant growth as healthcare workers increasingly seek flexibility and facilities adapt to evolving staffing demands. Industry forecasts predict the global per diem nurse staffing market will expand at a robust compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.2% through 2030.
As healthcare systems strive to balance budgets and meet the needs of their workforce, per diem nursing is aligned with modern workforce expectations and the shifting demands of patient care. After enduring years of financial turbulence, facilities are achieving financial adaptability without compromising the quality of care. Both health systems and workers benefit from the flexibility offered by per diem staffing. With modern technology, healthcare leaders can utilize workforce strategies, empower nurses, and deliver exceptional patient care—all while achieving sustainable financial stability.
About the author: JJ Ewing is chief nursing executive at ShiftMed.Back to HCB News
