Why Integritus Healthcare's Shocking Move Could Leave Thousands Jobless – Are You Prepared?

Pittsfield — In the dynamic landscape of healthcare, artificial intelligence is not poised to replace jobs in long-term care, a field that demands a highly personal and labor-intensive approach. However, more than five years after the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, organizations like Integritus Healthcare in Pittsfield continue to grapple with workforce challenges that have emerged or intensified during this period.

The workforce pipeline for healthcare workers is increasingly scarce at a time when the need for long-term care is set to surge. To combat this, Integritus has taken proactive measures to build its own workforce pipeline. Since launching its first strategic plan in 2009, Integritus has successfully helped around 200 individuals enter nursing careers through robust support systems in education, training, and career development. This initiative has seen an estimated investment of nearly $3 million, benefiting 70 registered nurses and 84 licensed practical nurses, including 19 nurses who have obtained their bachelor's degrees in nursing.

“As nurses and aides retired or left the industry altogether, we’ve come to the other side of the pandemic facing this challenge,” said William Jones, the president and CEO of Integritus. The organization, which offers a range of services including independent senior living, rehabilitation, memory care, and hospice, has not only had to adapt but also innovate in its staffing strategies.

Like many long-term care facilities, Integritus has been reliant on “traveling nurse” staffing services to fill vacancies, which come at a premium cost. “We’re not alone; every organization has had to deal with this challenge,” Jones noted. Developing and retaining a dedicated workforce not only creates jobs for the region but also allows Integritus to operate more efficiently.

Integritus has established a strategic partnership with McCann Technical School in North Adams. The organization incentivizes career advancement by covering tuition costs for certified nursing assistants (CNAs) wishing to become licensed practical nurses (LPNs), along with the cost of books and uniforms. “Last year, we began to pay individuals to attend classes as if they were working,” Jones explained. This approach is particularly beneficial for single parents who struggle to balance childcare and educational commitments.

Integritus also maintains a long-standing relationship with Berkshire Community College, which has seen growth in its nursing program, especially since the state initiated free community college tuition. “We’re having some good results this year,” said Jones, highlighting the positive impact of Integritus' investment in training and education.

“Looking at net hires, the difference between new hires and people who leave is significantly improved from where it was a year ago,” he added. However, he acknowledged the long-term nature of this endeavor, stating, “It’s going to take some time, unfortunately, but we’re making the necessary investment to be here for the long run.”

Employing 2,850 individuals across multiple facilities, including the headquarters in Pittsfield and eight other locations throughout Berkshire County, Integritus is a major player in local healthcare. With a total of 1,950 beds across 15 skilled nursing centers and 227 independent living units among its four senior housing communities, the organization plays a vital role in the community.

As the region’s population ages—36% of the county population was at least 60 years old according to the 2020 U.S. Census—demand for long-term care services is expected to increase. The largest demographic group, comprising 18%, consists of individuals aged 60 to 69. In August, Governor Maura Healey convened the Viability and Sustainability of Long-term Care Facilities Task Force, which indicated that Massachusetts could face a deficit of skilled nursing beds by 2035, with potential challenges arising as soon as 2029.

In response to this looming crisis, Integritus is investing in additional housing to meet anticipated needs. The organization has partnered with the owners of the Berkshire Mall in Lanesborough to propose a 420-unit senior housing community estimated to cost over $100 million, which will also feature retail shops. “If there truly is a need for additional senior housing in the Berkshires, we want to be involved in that,” Jones affirmed.

While recent increases in Medicaid payments have provided some relief, challenges remain. “Insurance reimbursements, especially those from Medicaid, don’t match the cost of providing care and are often not paid in a timely fashion,” Jones explained. Despite these hurdles, he expressed gratitude towards the local statehouse delegation for their advocacy.

Post-pandemic, Integritus finds its financial standing “very strong,” according to Jones, reporting revenues of $301 million for the fiscal year ending in 2024, an increase of 11.3%. “Our volume levels are at or better than pre-pandemic levels,” he said, highlighting the resilience of their teams throughout the crisis.

When asked if Integritus would consider a sale to a larger provider, Jones replied firmly, “We’re not for sale. Our roots are over 100 years deep here in the Berkshires. We take our responsibility seriously and are committed to providing high-quality services in the long run.”