As the crisp air of fall arrives, so does a familiar challenge for healthcare providers: flu season. For many hospitals, clinics, and community health centers, this period brings an influx of patients, overlapping with ongoing COVID cases and other seasonal illnesses like RSV. Over the summer, COVID-19 cases rose in many parts of the country - the CDC reported that in at least 26 states, COVID-related ER visits were climbing, especially among young children. Test positivity and transmission rates have been steadily elevated, and modeling shows that in about 19 states, infections are either growing or likely growing heading into fall. The result is a perfect storm of rising demand and already stretched resources.
Plan Ahead for Staffing Shortages
Flu season doesn’t just affect patients — it hits staff too. Sick calls, fatigue, and burnout can reduce team capacity at the exact moment facilities need all hands on deck.
- Build in flexibility with cross-training so staff can step into multiple roles
- Establish an on-call pool of temporary or per diem staff who can cover last-minute gaps
- Partner with staffing agencies early to avoid scrambling when demand peaks
Millbrook Support specializes in placing qualified providers in critical access areas quickly, so facilities can maintain safe staffing levels when it matters most.
Strengthen Preventive Measures
Reducing the strain on providers starts with prevention. Facilities can protect both staff and patients with proactive measures:
- Encourage early flu vaccinations for employees and patients
- Ensure PPE and sanitation supplies are stocked and easily accessible
- Use signage and communication campaigns to remind patients of basic hygiene protocols, like handwashing and mask use when ill
Leverage Telehealth and Triage Systems
During flu surges, triage becomes essential. Telehealth offers a way to handle lower-acuity cases without overloading waiting rooms.
- Implement virtual triage systems to separate urgent cases from routine care
- Provide telehealth appointments for patients with mild flu symptoms who don’t require in-person visits
- Train staff to manage virtual tools efficiently for smoother patient flow
Support Staff Wellbeing
Your team is your greatest asset — and they feel the strain of flu season most directly. Addressing staff needs isn’t just compassionate; it’s strategic.
- Offer mental health resources and check-ins during peak months
- Encourage regular breaks, hydration, and rest to combat fatigue
- Recognize and celebrate staff contributions to maintain morale
Preparing Together
Flu season will always bring challenges, but with foresight and the right support systems, healthcare facilities can protect both their patients and their teams. By prioritizing staffing readiness, preventive care, and staff wellbeing, leaders can turn a stressful season into an opportunity to strengthen resilience.
Millbrook Support stands ready to partner with facilities to ensure they have the people, resources, and strategies needed to face this fall with confidence.
About the Author
James L. Paterek, a dynamic human capital & technology industry leader, is the Chief Executive Officer of Millbrook Support Services, a nationwide healthcare staffing & workforce solutions company with offices throughout the country. Millbrook, Joint Commission certified and Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB), supplies Physicians, Nurses, Advanced Practice Providers and Allied Health staffing services to government, education, corrections, and commercial clients across North America. Moreover, Millbrook is a GSA-Federal Supply Schedule (FSS) contract holder of the 621 I for Professional & Allied Healthcare Staffing Services with a geographical coverage area encompassing all 50 States including Washington, DC, and Puerto Rico.
