Guam faces healthcare staffing crisis amid salary disparities

During a recent government meeting, discussions centered on the challenges faced by Guam's healthcare system, particularly in recruiting and retaining qualified respiratory therapists. The lack of local educational institutions offering relevant training was highlighted as a significant barrier, with the nearest option being Kapiolani Community College in Hawaii.

Participants noted that while Guam Memorial Hospital (GMH) and Guam Regional Medical City (GRMC) are working to improve salaries to attract talent, the current reliance on traveling healthcare professionals creates disparities. Local therapists expressed frustration at the wage gap, with travelers earning significantly more—up to $50 an hour—despite performing the same roles. This situation has led to discouragement among local staff, who feel undervalued.

The conversation also touched on the broader issue of a nationwide shortage of healthcare experts, prompting suggestions for collaboration with local educational institutions, such as Guam Community College (GCC), to develop programs aimed at creating a pipeline for future healthcare professionals. One participant recounted a successful online training initiative that allowed local technicians to complete their education and certification while working at GMH, underscoring the potential for similar programs to address workforce shortages.

However, challenges remain, as some educational programs have ceased recognizing Guam as an eligible location for training, further complicating efforts to bolster the local healthcare workforce. The meeting concluded with a call for innovative solutions to enhance training opportunities and improve retention rates for healthcare professionals in Guam.