Here we go again! Just when we thought the federal staffing mandate was behind us, maybe not. Nursing home staffing challenges continue to be front and center, and the conversation in Washington may be far from over. According to Skilled Nursing News, former CMS official Jonathan Blum recently warned that some version of the nursing home staffing rule could return after the November elections. His message to providers? If not a staffing mandate, then what?

That is a good question. We all know that simply requiring a specific number of staff does not solve every problem. Resident acuity, staff experience, turnover, training, leadership, and the availability of qualified caregivers all matter. What works in one community may not work in another. Blum encouraged providers to bring policymakers into the field so they can see what is really happening. Talk to residents, talk to staff, talk to operators. Sounds reasonable, right?

While policymakers continue to debate staffing requirements, there is another piece we cannot overlook: the people already doing the work. Nursing home staffing challenges are not just about recruiting enough people. They are also about keeping the people you have. Burnout, exhaustion, and workplace stress can take a toll on even the most dedicated staff. If we want to talk seriously about staffing and quality, workforce well-being needs to be part of that discussion too.

So, what can you do today? Start by listening to your staff. What is causing frustration? Where are the pressure points? What can leadership realistically change? The CDC TRAIN Learning Network offers training on understanding and preventing burnout among public health workers that may be a helpful resource for starting the conversation.

Staffing requirements may change. Regulations may come and go. However, the need for qualified, engaged staff who can provide quality care is not going anywhere. Take a look at what is happening in your community. Are you listening to staff? Are you addressing burnout before someone walks out the door? And, if someone asked you, “If not a staffing mandate, then what?” how would you answer?

Maybe that is a discussion for your next QAPI meeting. Remember, you do make a difference!

Stay well and stay informed!