In today's challenging healthcare landscape, the importance of environmental services (EVS) workers cannot be overstated. These professionals ensure that healthcare environments remain clean, safe, and healthy for both patients and staff.
However, the industry is currently grappling with a significant EVS worker shortage. Recruiting younger people can be as difficult as retaining them while the existing workforce continues to age out. EVS employees are also being lured to other industries facing similar shortfalls. Contec Professional, a leading manufacturer of cleaning supplies for critical areas, has been working side-by-side with its partners to address this challenge. Through innovative products and comprehensive training, Contec is not only making the cleaning process more efficient but also helping healthcare facilities attract the next generation of EVS professionals.
The Current State of the Healthcare EVS Worker Shortage
The healthcare industry is experiencing an unprecedented lack of workers in almost all categories, from surgeons and caregivers to technicians and support staff. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the U.S. will face a shortage of almost 200,000 nurses by 2031. Healthcare EVS departments are struggling with a similarly dismal hiring outlook. The shortage of healthcare cleaning professionals isn’t just an administrative headache; it directly impacts the quality of care patients receive. Clean environments are crucial in preventing hospital-acquired infections and ensuring patient safety. With fewer hands on deck, EVS teams are working harder than ever, although maintaining high standards becomes increasingly challenging.
Contec Pro's Solution: Efficient and Effective Cleaning
Contec Professional recognized the difficulties created by the EVS worker shortage early on and has been tackling the problem from a different angle: instead of trying to find more people to perform the cleaning process, what if the cleaning process itself was improved? Many healthcare facilities use laundered microfiber mops and wipes. These require additional labor to run washing machines and dryers if the hospital has an in-house laundry. Employees are needed to collect and sort soiled textiles, redistribute laundered products, and other physically demanding tasks.
With the introduction of single-use microfiber mop pads, wipes, and dusters, Contec has revolutionized the cleaning
process. These disposable mops and wipes eliminate the need for relaundering which is labor-intensive, but they also provide superior and more consistent cleaning results. Contec Pro has also developed ultra-lightweight extendable handles that make overhead cleaning easier, recyclable backer plates that let users clean under equipment without moving it, and other innovations designed with and for healthcare EVS teams. By using Contec products, EVS workers can clean more efficiently and effectively, allowing healthcare facilities to maintain high standards even with fewer staff.
Empowering the Next Generation of EVS Workers
Beyond product innovation, Contec Professional is committed to supporting the next generation of EVS workers through comprehensive education and training. These programs are designed to equip workers with the skills and knowledge they need to work efficiently in areas where cleanliness is critical. Many classes are offered by industry organizations such as the Association for the Health Care Environment (AHE). Contec Professional also provides ongoing training and assessments for EVS teams by its in-house cleaning experts. By offering such training, Contec is helping overcome the immediate challenges posed by the worker shortage while also advocating for the EVS profession long-term.
Furthermore, by supporting the successes of healthcare EVS employees, facilities can attract younger talent who might be unaware of the rewarding opportunities in this field. It's time for healthcare systems to become more creative in their environmental services recruitment strategies, and Contec Pro can help.
The national healthcare EVS worker shortage is a pressing concern, but with companies like Contec Professional partnering with the industry, there's hope on the horizon. By reimagining the cleaning process and investing in future professionals, Contec is not only addressing the immediate challenges but also laying the groundwork for a brighter future for healthcare environmental services. It's clear that with the right tools, training, and partners, the current obstacles can be overcome, and patients can continue enjoying the highest standard of care.
Learn more about how Contec Professional can help here.
