US hospitals turn to gig platforms on nurse shortage

Psychiatric registered nurse Jessica Martinez, 38, speaks during an interview in Paramus, New Jersey. The availability of gig work comes as US hospitals try new ways to alleviate a staffing crunch, drawing comparisons to convenience associated with apps like Uber. But critics warn this could impact patient care or fuel tensions within the workforce. — AFP

PARAMUS, United States: When Jessica Martinez moved away from home in 2020, a temporary contract brought her to New Jersey as a nurse on the frontlines of the pandemic. But her earnings slipped as Covid-19 faded.

Drawn by higher pay and greater flexibility, the 38-year-old is among a growing number of nurses turning to gig work – picking up individual shifts on an app as an alternative to months-long contracts or direct employment by a hospital.