Lakeland presenters propose four-part plan to address CNA shortages

Denise, speaking for Lakeland staff, presented a four-part plan the facility wants included in its 2027 budget to address a chronic shortage of certified nursing assistants (CNAs).

Denise summarized Pathways Health findings that identified insufficient leadership on non‑day shifts, communication breakdowns and staff burnout linked to high absenteeism. "There were some regulatory vulnerabilities that we are focusing on," she said, adding that two serious incidents in 2025 — both on night shift — prompted the outside review.

The proposal bundles four strategies: (1) "Pulse and Presence" — additional leadership coverage for PM and night shifts; (2) "Reliable Care Champs" — a tiered rewards and recognition program to encourage attendance; (3) "Care Merge" — consolidating multiple part‑time positions into larger point‑eight roles to make benefits available; and (4) a "Weekend Warrior" program converting long‑vacant 0.2 FTE roles into weekend positions with predictable schedules and a $10/hour alternating bonus.

Denise said the measures are intended to reduce overtime and agency costs while improving retention and quality of care. "The gap contributes to risk, culture, fragmentation, communication breakdowns, and staff frustration," she said. Board members indicated broad support for testing the strategies and asked staff to refine stipend amounts and implementation details with HR and finance before returning in September.

Next steps: staff will return with a detailed budget proposal in September and work with county HR/finance on stipend tiers and cost estimates.