HCA, Tallahassee Chamber partner to address healthcare worker shortage

From the Tallahassee Democrat

HCA Healthcare’s foundation is awarding a $200,000 grant to generate a diverse talent pipeline of healthcare workers to serve future needs in the capital city.

Funding will be provided to Tallahassee Chamber of Commerce’s World Class Schools of Leon County to assist the Chamber’s Talent Pipeline Management.

It’s part of HCA Healthcare Foundation’s Healthier Tomorrow Fund, an $80 million community impact fund announced in 2021 that is designed to support innovative initiatives focused on addressing high priority community needs and health equity.

According to research conducted by the Tallahassee Chamber, the region is in need of more than 17,300 careers, including those in healthcare by 2030.

“The Tallahassee region is facing a talent shortage, particularly in the healthcare industry with nearly 2,500 current job openings,” Chamber President and CEO Sue Dick said. “Thanks to the investment of the HCA Healthcare Foundation, the Talent Pipeline Management program will continue leading this community forward as we identify and address the training, education and skills for current and future high-demand jobs.”

Talent Pipeline Management is a workforce strategy helping regions across the country meet the evolving business needs of the community.

This is an initiative spearheaded by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and was later adopted into practice by the Greater Tallahassee Chamber of Commerce in 2020, during the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, based on the needs of the community.

“The ability to care for our communities today and in the future depends on a healthy healthcare talent pipeline,” said Alan Keesee, CEO, HCA Florida Capital Hospital. “We are proud that the HCA Healthcare Foundation is partnering with organizations like the Tallahassee Chamber to ensure we are aware of the changing healthcare needs of our residents and visitors, and taking appropriate action to secure the best possible future for Tallahassee and the surrounding communities.”