Workforce development issues in the field of addictions: A study of factors that impact retention with addiction professionals in New York State

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to understand what factors impact workforce retention in the field of addictions. There is workforce shortage in the addiction’s profession. These shortages impose substantial burdens on patients who need substance use treatment. The problem is widespread throughout the United States. The workforce shortage is the major cause of patients not receiving adequate care. An increase of the workforce will reduce compounding community issues. This includes having an adequate workforce to support the growing opioid epidemic. Ecological systems theory explains how workplace systems directly impact the immediate environment of the addictions professional. This includes workplace factors that may influence decision making to leave or stay within a position. Axiology explains how factors influence the nature of and value of the position in the addictions field. Consequently, factors that impact professional values affect addictions professionals’ decision making to leave or stay within a position. The study used three scales including the Adapted Leave Child Welfare Scale (AILCW); Work- Related Quality of Life Scale (WRQoL) and the Oldenburg Burnout Inventory (OLBI). The scales were tested for reliability using a correlational, cross- sectional using a Likert scale. Research was conducted using a purposive convenience sampling methods. Data was gathered from several public lists of addictions credentialed professionals and addictions qualified health professionals in NYS. Results indicated that work satisfaction plays a significant role in retention. Training, supervision, and competitive salaries also have significant influence on retention. Finally, burnout also has a significant impact on workplace retention.