Vancouver Acute and Vancouver Community Departments and Divisions can now apply for up to $3000 for recruitment and retention initiatives.

Like their colleagues in other departments and divisions, VPSA endocrinologists are facing enormous HHR-related pressures. That’s why Dr. Marshall Dahl, head of the divisions of endocrinology at VCH, VCH and PHC, applied earlier this year for VPSA’s recruitment and retention project funding.

With funding in hand to cover protected time and related expenses, the division held a retreat with nine of its physician members attending. The goal of the retreat was to address changing demographics and leadership within the group as well as acquiring new skill sets. Participants created a five-year workplan to adjust loads with the aim of improving retention of current staff.

“We found the Recruitment and Retention Retreat to be extremely helpful,” said Dr. Dahl. “We had a focussed, collegial and productive session that helped us work on factors that would help instantly and also build a better five-year plan. We came out of the evening with a very positive attitude and a list of action items. It was a unifying and enjoyable experience!”

Six of the retreat’s nine participants took a post-event survey with 100 per cent of the respondents rating the overall effectiveness of the retreat in addressing recruitment and retention challenges as very effective. Eighty-three per cent agreed that the retreat provided a clear understanding of the division’s recruitment and retention challenges, with the same percentage agreeing that everyone had an opportunity to contribute their perspectives. A similar 83 per cent agreed that they now feel more confident about the division’s ability to address these challenges.

Survey comments included:

• It looks like we need to make a focussed effort to recruit the folks who are already on our radar screen, but I am confident the faculty in our division can do so.
• We are working to be a Centre of Excellence with expertise in a wide range of endocrine specialty areas. Really exciting to discuss the gaps we need to fill and the potential candidates who are well suited for these areas.
• This retreat was very well moderated by our division head and allowed for open discussion.
• Clear action plan. Very collegial and pleasant environment that will lead us to return to in-person meetings.
• Would like to have this opportunity more often.

“This retreat is a great example of ways departments and divisions can use VPSA funding to address recruitment and retention challenges,” said VPSA President Dr. Ka Wai Cheung. “HHR-related issues can be a leading cause of burnout and that’s why this is a priority for us. If you have an idea for recruitment and/or retention that could use funding, please check with your department or division head and encourage them to apply.”