Zhichao Zhu,* Weiheng Zheng,* Nan Tang, Weimei Zhong

Human Resource Department, Shenzhen Children’s Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong, People’s Republic of China

*These authors contributed equally to this work

Correspondence: Nan Tang; Weimei Zhong, Email phoebetn@outlook.com; zhongweimei_023@163.com

Abstract: 
Background: Hospital manpower management (HRM) is vital for effective healthcare delivery. Unique challenges, such as managing diverse staff, ensuring clear communication, and optimizing resources, complicate HRM. Rising operational costs, workforce shortages, and employee burnout necessitate strategic approaches to manpower management. This review aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of manpower management in hospitals, focusing on identifying core components and discussing innovative strategies to address current challenges, particularly those related to workforce shortages. A literature review was conducted using databases such as PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar. Key terms included “hospital manpower management”, “HRM challenges in healthcare”, and “workforce shortages”, selected for their relevance to the core focus of this review. Relevant articles published from 2019 to 2023 were selected for analysis. The review identified core components of manpower management: recruitment and staffing, workforce planning, training and development, performance management, and compensation and benefits. Strategies to address workforce shortages included strategic hiring and enhancing employee engagement. The integration of technology and ongoing training emerged as critical for maintaining high-quality patient care. Effective manpower management is essential for the sustainability of healthcare systems. This review highlighted the importance of innovative HRM strategies to tackle workforce shortages and improve employee satisfaction. By focusing on comprehensive HRM practices, healthcare organizations could enhance workforce efficiency and provide better patient care. Future research should explore the long-term impacts of these strategies on healthcare.

Keywords: hospital manpower management, workforce shortages, HRM challenges in healthcare, workforce planning