How Epic Specialty Staffing is Filling Critical Roles in Medical Imaging
Medical imaging is a crucial aspect of healthcare, and Epic Specialty Staffing is unique in that we are one of few recruitment companies specializing in this area. Trey Pittman, Radiation Oncology Account Executive, is an expert in the field. Here is a look at how he builds strong relationships with candidates and clients.
What is Your Role at Epic Specialty Staffing and Why is it Important in the World of Healthcare?
Pittman specializes in imaging staffing and has multiple years of experience in the healthcare field, having worked as a paramedic before moving into recruitment. Now, he is building Epic Specialty Staffing’s internal imaging division, which includes elevating our core team to fulfill locum travel work.
“What we do is important because we have a shortage of healthcare workers nationwide in most modalities,” Pittman explains. “I came to Epic Specialty Staffing because one of their values is being the best at what they do, which resonates with me a lot. I like to be the very best at what I am doing. I measure that through the experiences of our travelers and our clients.”
Pittman’s work solves immediate staffing problems, but he says he is also setting up long-term career paths for candidates. “When people talk with me, they are not just a number on a page,” he adds. “It is about making a game plan for them to find fulfilling, sustainable work.”
What Kinds of Medical Imaging Roles does Epic Specialty Staffing Fill? Why Are They Important?
Epic Specialty Staffing works alongside various experts in the field of healthcare to fill hospital, clinic, and tribal or government contract opportunities—our locum imaging team will go to any city where they are needed most.
“Some are in small hometowns in fly-over states in tiny hospitals, while others are in Alaska,” says Pittman. “MRI, CT and interventional rad-techs are needed most, as well as astute echo and cath lab techs. These highly specialized positions require a lifetime of learning and skill.”
Some roles Epic Specialty Staffing fills but is not limited to include:
- Nuclear Medicine Technologists
- Diagnostic Medical Sonographers
- MRI, Radiologic & CT Technologists
- Cardiovascular Technologists
Pittman cannot overstate the importance of these roles. “Medical imaging is crucial in various medical settings and at all major levels of healthcare. It is a vital tool for physicians to assist with diagnostics, treatment, and prevention.”
Not Many Recruitment Companies Specialize Exclusively in this Service
“By choosing to be selective and staff only imaging, we perform in all aspects of market trends,” says Pittman. “Our travelers have a more personal experience and know whom to turn to when large companies treat them as a number. We cannot fix all the problems in healthcare, but we can make travel imaging a rewarding career path for folks who want to hit the road.”
Where Do You See Epic Specialty Staffing Going from Here?
Pittman sees an expansive growth for the future of Epic Specialty Staffing and believes word-of-mouth will be one of our biggest advertisers.
“We will be hiring highly skilled travelers over the coming months for dozens of states across the country,” he adds. “We aim to ensure their experience is the best possible. There will always be jobs to fill. By creating a supportive atmosphere and hiring the best talent, our travelers grow their skills and provide better patient care. That is a win-win for everyone and something our clients appreciate.”
How Do You Connect with Candidates and Clients?
Pittman takes a comprehensive approach to building long-lasting relationships. He relies on social media and other platforms to connect with decision-makers on the client-side while nurturing existing relationships with established customers Epic Specialty Staffing is already serving. Though, anticipating their needs is a huge component. The goal is to make life easier for them, especially if they are searching for a specialized imaging professional that’s hard to find.
“When it comes to candidates, social media has presented itself over the last couple of years as the number one way to reach people,” says Pittman. “It has been a game-changer in the world of recruiting, allowing us to create these different groups and communities. For travelers who are out there, that is big. Sometimes, they can feel alone, but network connections provide a sense of community and support.”
How Has Medical Imaging Changed Over the Last Few Years in Terms of Recruitment?
MRI has ticked up in the number of open travel positions, according to Pittman.
“It was once a challenging modality to try and get people started,” he says. “It is different now, and there are almost always positions open. Contract CT positions have increased since the pandemic. CT was used for diagnosing Covid. This led to high-paying crisis contracts and major shifts in the workforce’s physical location. Several parts of the healthcare ecosystem were disrupted.
In addition, he has also seen a loosening of red tape around state-to-state licensing since Covid, freeing up much-needed workers during the pandemic. Thus, making it easier for healthcare workers to get licensed and practice in other states, without which staffing during the pandemic wouldn’t have been possible.
“We are also seeing changes in 3D imaging and how hospitals process these,” says Pittman. “For instance, some X-ray techs perform the exam, which is then transferred to a 3D lab. There the technologist post processes them into three-dimensional images. It expedites the process from scanning to interpretation by a radiologist. This leads to shorter wait times and more efficient operations.
Why is it Important for Radiology Departments to Have Strong Staffing Plans?
People are living longer, which is undoubtedly a good thing. But, nevertheless, that also creates more healthcare needs. “We have this growing population of people who need care,” says Pittman. “There are new cancers and problems we must learn how to fix.”
Healthcare technology and innovation are investing to keep up with the forever-changing needs of our communities. In turn, this creates even more highly skilled healthcare positions.
During Covid, we have also seen just how vital staffing is. In the end, Pittman says having a solid staffing plan goes hand in hand with exceptional patient care.
With that said, he is looking forward to National Rad Tech Week, kicking off on November 6, 2022. “I’m sure there will be a lot of fun!” he exclaims. “I’m always excited to see what everyone creates, and it’s a great way to see our community come together and connect.”