Last update:

   11-Nov-2026
 

Arch Hellen Med, 44(1), January-February 2027, 18-23

REVIEW

Human resource management in health units: Best practices for attracting and retaining competent staff

K. Vlasiadis,1 E. Garedaki,2 A. Maganaraki,3 N. Papavasileiou4
1Dental Clinic, University Hospital of Heraklion, Heraklion, Crete,
2Public Health Directorate, 7th Health Region of Crete, Heraklion, Crete,
3Directorate of Planning and Development of Health Service Provision Policies, 7th Health Region of Crete, Heraklion, Crete,
4Administration of the 7th Health Region of Crete, Heraklion, Crete, Greece

Nowadays, the management of human resources in the healthcare sector is a vital component of an effective health system, which is called upon to demonstrate flexibility and adaptability to the continuous and often unexpected socioeconomic, technological, digital and many other changes. Investing in (correct) transparent and fair strategies for attracting, retaining and developing the right staff contributes to the efficiency of individual healthcare units, the competent departments of which must function as a "bridge" of interconnection between administrative executives and employees, ensuring the improvement of healthcare services and the satisfaction of all stakeholders. This article examines such best practices that can be applied to attract and retain a competent and dedicated medical and nursing staff with the main concern of ensuring a high-quality index of the care provided and high levels of job satisfaction to enhance commitment. Some of those analyzed are: (a) new strategies for attracting staff, (b) flexible working hours, (c) ongoing training and professional development, (d) reward systems, (e) wellness and well-being support, (f) experiential teamwork activities, (g) open communication, as well as (h) transparency in decision-making, which can, among other things, increase the productivity index of the personnel and the sustainability of healthcare structures.

Key words: Health units, Human resource management, Staff attracting, Staff retaining.


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