Rethinking big data in 2024: How healthcare can leverage workforce intelligence

The future of healthcare innovation in the next decade will be influenced by clinician big data and artificial intelligence (AI), referred to as workforce intelligence. While clinical discovery is commonly emphasised, the role of workforce data is equally crucial. 

Workforce shortages are anticipated to be the new normal, with projections indicating a significant increase in the ageing population and a potential shortage of physicians and nurses. Leveraging clinician big data can address challenges such as shortages, burnout, and attrition.

Drawing parallels with the "Moneyball" strategy in baseball, healthcare systems are encouraged to change their perception of available data to enhance outcomes for both patients and clinical workforces. Clinician big data, which encompasses various aspects of a clinician's career, can be utilised to optimise the existing workforce, improve recruiting strategies, reduce onboarding time and cost, and enhance access to care. 

The efficient use of data allows healthcare organisations to align supply and demand, strategically recruit candidates, streamline onboarding processes, and ultimately provide better patient care while addressing workforce challenges.