The IMPACT | June 2024

By Frank Velasquez Jr.

6/18/2024

Perfecting a Preceptorship Plan That Benefits Everyone

What a whirlwind of a meeting we had at the Healthcare Workforce Collaborative on May 28, 2024! This gathering was anything but ordinary. With an incredible lineup of healthcare representatives from Banner, Tucson Medical Center, Northwest Medical Center, and El Rio, we were ready to tackle one of the most pressing issues in ensuring a talented and prepared healthcare workforce: quality preceptorships. And let me tell you, the energy was popping!

We kicked off with a brief review of last quarter’s meeting in February, where preceptorships emerged as a crucial area of focus. We took that topic and ran!

One key challenge discussed was building confidence in new nurses. The insight that inadequate training contributes to high turnover was a reality check and sobering reminder of the stakes at hand. A suggestion was made for a two-tier preceptorship system to support both brand new and more experienced staff, a practical approach that resonated with everyone. We also emphasized the inconsistency in preceptorships and floated the idea of a standardized program. How about a week of in-person training to build that much-needed confidence? The idea had everyone nodding in agreement.

Then came the brainstorm on incentives. How do we make preceptorships appealing? With a staggering shortage of 28,000 nurses in Arizona, with 7,500 in Pima County alone, all ideas were on the table. Proposals included looking into compensation and curriculum models to attract and retain talent. There was a call for better talent mapping, as well as suggestions to identify those committed to staying in Pima County—a crucial step in addressing local healthcare needs.

Another glaring issue was that preceptors aren’t prioritized in curriculum, making it extra work rather than a fundamental component. This was a rallying cry for all of us to rethink how we structure and value preceptorships.

The Big Idea: A Unified Preceptor Plan

We took steps in creating a unified preceptor plan for 2025. Here’s a potential framework we came up with of what that might look like:

Application and Selection Process: Imagine attending a health career fair and walking out with a preceptorship application in hand. It's about making it seamless and integrated with career fairs.
Matching Concept: Special focus on Med-Surge, with a goal of matching 400 graduates annually. A unified effort across hospitals to ensure consistency and quality.
Curriculum Integration: Including preceptor competencies and ensuring these programs reach rural communities.

The idea of a “matching” fair was especially exciting. Finding the right fit, for both employer and recruit, in terms of specialty and location is hugely key to retention. We aim to address mismatches and reduce turnover by aligning student interests with hospital needs.

As we wrapped up, the enthusiasm was undeniable. The next meeting is scheduled for August 21, 2024, from 10:30 am – 12:00 pm. You can register by clicking here. The goals? Continue developing the matching fair concept and refine the preceptor training curriculum.

The collaboration between these major hospitals—Banner, Tucson Medical Center, Northwest Medical Center, Carondelet, and El Rio—sets a powerful example of what can be achieved when we come together with a common goal. Because this isn’t just about filling vacancies; it’s about building a robust, confident, and dedicated healthcare workforce for our Pima County community.

Be part of the change! Stay engaged, share your thoughts, and subscribe to our updates:

For press release and advocacy alerts, subscribe to our press release page here. 

To be updated on upcoming events, subscribe to our calendar here. 

To be notified of our bi-monthly blog posts, subscribe on this page. 

 Follow the Chamber on social media.