Why Call-Outs Increase During the Holidays
The holiday season can be one of the busiest—and most unpredictable—times for healthcare facilities. Between increased patient admissions and staff taking well-earned time off, reducing call-outs becomes a top priority for administrators and staffing coordinators.
Unplanned absences can quickly disrupt workflow, impact patient care, and place extra pressure on the remaining staff. That’s why staffing reliability during the holidays isn’t just a nice-to-have—it’s essential for maintaining quality care and smooth operations.
Common Causes of Holiday Call-Outs
Understanding why call-outs spike during the holidays can help facilities plan more effectively. Common reasons include:
- Seasonal fatigue: Long hours and back-to-back shifts take a toll on caregivers.
- Family obligations: Staff members want to spend time with loved ones during the holidays.
- Illness: The flu and cold season often coincide with holiday months.
- Burnout: Emotional and physical exhaustion can lead to last-minute absences.
While these factors are understandable, healthcare organizations still need to ensure consistent coverage.
Strategies to Reduce Call-Outs During the Holidays
1. Plan Ahead and Communicate Early
Start creating holiday schedules well in advance. Clear communication helps employees plan their personal time while ensuring adequate staffing. Early notice also minimizes scheduling conflicts and prevents last-minute call-outs.
2. Offer Flexible Shift Options
Providing flexible schedules or shorter shifts can go a long way in preventing burnout. When caregivers feel supported, they’re more likely to show up and stay engaged during this busy time.
3. Recognize and Reward Reliability
Acknowledging staff who consistently show up and perform well reinforces commitment. Even small gestures like appreciation messages or gift cards can boost morale and attendance.
4. Partner with a Trusted Staffing Agency
Partnering with a nurse staffing agency in Massachusetts like Informatix Health gives facilities an extra layer of security. Our healthcare staffing solutions ensure that when call-outs happen, qualified and reliable caregivers are ready to step in—keeping operations running smoothly.
5. Promote Work-Life Balance
Encourage your team to rest and recharge. A healthy, balanced workforce means fewer call-outs, better patient care, and higher staff satisfaction.
How Informatix Health Can Help Your Facility
At Informatix Health, we understand how critical staffing consistency is during the holidays. Our team provides dependable healthcare staffing support for facilities across Massachusetts—covering everything from short-term replacements to long-term staffing partnerships.
We take pride in connecting you with reliable caregivers, nurses, and CNAs who are passionate about providing quality care, even during the busiest times of the year.
Partner with a Staffing Agency You Can Count On
Don’t let holiday call-outs affect your facility’s quality of care. Informatix Health is here to ensure your team has the reliable support it needs throughout the season and beyond.
Contact Informatix Health today to learn more about our holiday staffing solutions and how we can help your facility maintain exceptional care all year round.