Therapy Staffing Shortages Strain Illinois Healthcare Companies
March 19, 2025 – Illinois — Healthcare companies across Illinois are grappling with a growing shortage of therapy professionals, creating significant challenges for hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and home health agencies. The lack of physical, occupational, and speech therapists is leading to increased workloads, delayed patient care, and rising operational costs.
With fewer therapists on staff, existing employees are facing heavier caseloads, leading to burnout and higher turnover rates. Many companies are struggling to retain skilled professionals as they seek better pay and work-life balance elsewhere.
For patients, the impact is equally concerning. Longer wait times for therapy services can hinder recovery, particularly for post-surgical and elderly patients who rely on timely rehabilitation. Home health agencies, already under pressure to meet demand, are being forced to turn away referrals, resulting in financial losses.
To combat the shortage, healthcare providers are offering higher wages, sign-on bonuses, and flexible work arrangements. Some are increasingly relying on contract therapy agencies to fill the gaps. Others are turning to teletherapy and advocating for policy changes to expand the workforce.
Working with a specialized therapy staffing company offers a practical solution by providing access to a network of qualified professionals ready to step in as needed. These agencies help healthcare providers maintain consistent staffing levels, reduce recruitment costs, and ensure uninterrupted patient care, ultimately improving both operational efficiency and patient outcomes.