In an interview with David Theobald, MS, BSN, RN, CEO of Stat Staff Professionals, Inc., he focuses on the importance of high-quality supplemental staffing structures, while reflecting on his experiences as an RN at the bedside. Seeing the nursing shortages firsthand drove David to seek to make a change in the future of healthcare by creating a nurse-owned and nurse-operated company whose mission is to alleviate the burden of staffing challenges, while providing exceptional patient care.
What made you want to start this journey of creating a staffing agency/MSP?
When I reflected on previous experiences at the bedside, I thought about the feeling of failure when there wasn’t appropriate staffing. Being a nurse, having the caring aspect in the field definitely empowered me. I looked at the other staffing companies and knew there was a better way to do it. I knew there was room for a company that supported nurses and their education more. Healthcare is a moving target, and we must constantly innovate to keep up.
What do you think the biggest benefit of having an MSP is?
I think the largest benefit is having an organization that cares about quality clinicians taking care of your patients. Also, knowing your MSP is there 24/7, and they can complete difficult tasks is important. Finally, having a trusted partner for patient care and excellence is a great feeling.
What did you see at the bedside as a nurse that made you want to start Stat Staff Professionals?
When I worked in the ICU unit, going home in tears because we did not have enough staff or time to help people with life-threatening emergencies. It was a horrible feeling. Knowing that if there were more quality nurses that the outcomes of the patients would have been better. That’s when I knew Stat Staff could make a positive impact.
What do you think is Stat Staff’s biggest strength?
Definitely the people. The people behind our mission. We are a mission-driven company, knowing that every person who works here is contributing to the overall quality of the organization. All of our departments working together to provide an excellent service.
Do you think every hospital should have an MSP?
Not necessarily. I think that if they are having challenges finding quality staff and are using multiple agencies where there are discrepancies in billing and in consistency, then it would benefit them to consider an MSP. Every hospital has unique problems, and at Stat Staff Professionals, we listen to all of them and provide them with a specific strategy to execute.
What should healthcare facilities look for when choosing an MSP?
I think they should look for Joint Commission Certification, a company that is mission-driven and isn’t just the biggest company, and the one with a dedicated, caring staff that’s committed to excellence. I also would tell them to look for a company that closely tracks quality metrics and performance. Finally, they should have technological assets as well.
Choosing an MSP is a large, long-term decision that requires plenty of thought. Looking at the overall mission of the company you select is vital, and the quality of the caregivers is imperative. Both large and small facilities can benefit tremendously from having an MSP who has their back at all times.
Learn more about the services we offer or connect with us here.
