Health systems are finding it difficult to recruit and retain talent — and in many places, high housing costs contribute to the problem.
To mitigate the costs of relocation and help employees crack the tough housing market, health systems nationwide are building their own living complexes — including these five:
1. Moab (Utah) Regional Hospital is in the process of purchasing land to build staff housing, KUER reported Jan. 4. There are housing shortages in the area, and when people cannot afford to live there, they quickly move on to other opportunities. The hospital hopes that its own housing project will draw potential recruits to the area.
2. The Burlington-based University of Vermont Health System has invested $6 million in a 120-apartment complex for clinicians and employees — featuring a child care center. It is the second project of its kind, with a 61-unit complex set to open in April.
3. Jackson, Wyo.-based St. John's Health is constructing a three-story, 15-unit housing complex for employees. Rent will be based on workers' wages, former CEO Dave Robertson told the Jackson Hole News & Guide.
4. Flagstaff-based Northern Arizona Healthcare might add employee housing to its new hospital complex on the south end of Flagstaff, although this has not been confirmed yet. The facility would also feature a 160-foot hospital tower, multifamily housing, a hotel, a nature retreat, and retail and restaurants, and is set to be complete in 2027.
5. Salida, Colo.-based Heart of the Rockies Regional Medical Center is considering a proposal for employee and patient housing. Employees, patients and families who live more than 30 miles from the hospital could utilize the housing, with a fourplex specifically dedicated to employees. The construction and operational costs would be paid for through charitable funds.