When will we start actively recruiting again?
We’ve been asked this question many times over the last few months, and for good reason.
Over the past few years, we’ve worked hard to address the healthcare worker shortage in Finland and to ensure there will be sufficient healthcare staff in the future. Last year, we recruited over 1,000 healthcare professionals to Finland, and this year, the number is closer to 1,500.
So, what’s going on? Why aren’t we accepting new candidates into the program right now?
Here are a few key reasons that have led to this situation:
Staffing Ratio Adjustment: The Finnish government has decided to lower the staffing ratio for round-the-clock care services, where most of our recruits’ end up working in. Currently, the ratio is 0.65 healthcare staff per patient, but it will be reduced to 0.60 at the beginning of 2025. This has led to a decreased demand for healthcare workers in the short term.
Budget Constraints: Finland’s welfare regions were established as part of the social and healthcare reform in 2023, but their finances are currently in serious trouble. This has resulted in a situation where nursing home places are not being filled quickly enough, and many elderly citizens are sadly still waiting at home to receive care.
Improved Staffing: Many of our clients currently have better staffing situations than usual. Some of our clients and well-being areas are even undergoing change negotiations to reduce staff in preparation of the staffing ratio changes next year. It’s a strange situation in a field that typically suffers from chronic staff shortages. As a result, we are focusing on those already further along in the recruitment process and are not accepting new candidates into the regular recruitment program currently.
However, the long-term need for healthcare workers is still very real. By 2030, Finland’s population will see a significant increase in the proportion of elderly citizens, with those over 65 making up around 26% of the population. This aging demographic will drive a higher demand for healthcare and elderly care services. Adding to this challenge is the high rate of retirements in the healthcare sector, which will contribute to a significant workforce shortage.
Things to take into account!
- Application Reviews: We are still accepting applications. While we are reviewing them, we will only reach out if a recruitment opportunity arises that matches a candidate’s profile. However, we will not currently be admitting anyone to our self-study phase.
- Potential Early Openings: When we receive additional orders from our employer clients or if we’re unable to match current applicants with employers looking for specific experience, there’s a possibility that we may reopen positions in the recruitment program sooner than expected.
- Expanding Opportunities: Silk Road is also looking to expand into new areas of recruitment, which we hope will open up fresh avenues and opportunities for professionals who wish to live and work in Finland. Make sure to keep an eye on our socials for more info on this!
