Reskilling and development
Today’s economy is ripe with concerns about job security, changing roles and the ability to adapt to new technologies. By embracing the nature of today’s job market and investing in the development and reskilling of their staff, rural providers can create a more adaptable, motivated and skilled workforce.

This approach will help them navigate the evolving healthcare landscape while maintaining their autonomy and local decision-making power. It's essential to clearly communicate the reasons for these changes, however. Emphasizing that these changes will allow the hospitals to provide high-quality care while remaining financially stable power is crucial.
Providing opportunities for professional growth can improve job satisfaction and retention, reducing turnover and maintaining a skilled workforce. Employees will feel more engaged and valued, leading to a more motivated team. A skilled and adaptable workforce can also better support the organization’s strategic goals, leading to improved patient care, operational efficiency, and financial performance.

Cybersecurity
As rural health providers adopt new technologies and leverage data to improve operational efficiency and patient care, robust IT policies and security measures become increasingly critical. The influx of electronic health records, telehealth services, and predictive analytics necessitates a comprehensive approach to data protection and cybersecurity. Without these measures, our investments in technology and staff development are at risk, and the potential for data breaches and cyber threats increases significantly.

Investments will need to be made in the following areas:
• Comprehensive information technology policies to safeguard sensitive information and ensure the continuity of services.
• Advanced cybersecurity measures that include implementing encryption, multi-factor authentication, and regular security audits.
• Compliance with healthcare regulations.
• Continuous improvement and adaptation to stay ahead of the threats and technology.

In the rapidly evolving landscape of healthcare, the need for rural health providers to streamline administrative and financial functions, invest in staff development, and ensure robust IT policies and security measures is paramount. Embracing these changes is essential for rural providers to remain competitive and sustainable in the evolving healthcare landscape.

About the author: As a partner with the Bonadio Group's Assurance Division, Jonathan Miller’s primary role is overseeing the financial statement audits of his team’s clients. He is also involved in a variety of consulting engagements, including financial due diligence and forecasting, project management and advisory services, operational audits, business planning, and Board governance.

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