HAP's Latest News

Finding Solutions for Pennsylvania’s Health Care Workforce Crisis

January 30, 2025

Addressing Pennsylvania’s health care workforce shortage is a shared commitment across the commonwealth.

This morning, hospital leaders, legislators and public health officials gathered in Harrisburg for City & State’s Future of Healthcare in Pennsylvania Summit. The event focused on ways we can strengthen our workforce as the demand for quality care continues to grow.

During a panel discussion, HAP President and CEO Nicole Stallings outlined the ways hospitals are investing in their communities and supporting access to care, particularly in rural areas. Beyond providing outstanding care, hospitals serve as economic engines throughout Pennsylvania, she noted.

“People want to live where they can access health care and services that they need,” she said.

Here are a few things to know:

  • Leading by example:  Hospitals are investing in their teams and communities, offering strong incentives to support retention and recruitment, and benefits like tuition assistance and childcare that make them industry leaders.
  • Lessons from the past:  Regulatory flexibility during the pandemic helped spark innovation and supported access to care.
  • Embrace what works:  Telehealth has grown significantly since the pandemic and has been an important tool to help increase access to health care, especially in rural areas.
    • Telehealth includes many forms, including tele-nursing, which has supported staff and patients alike.
  • Supporting your teams:  Health care offers students access to opportunities to quickly advance in their careers. Partnerships with high schools and colleges are critical to help build the future pipeline.
  • The future includes AI:  Artificial technology is not replacing traditional one-on-one care, but it does have a role.

HAP continues to prioritize policies that help hospitals attract and retain health care professionals who are essential for serving our communities. Learn more about our workforce priorities online.

Learn more about the event online.



+