Tuesday, 29 October 2024
The Brüderklinikum Julia Lanz in Mannheim has established itself as a pioneer in the integration of international healthcare professionals. To find out more about how the clinic helps these professionals settle in and what role the introductory events organised by ProRecognition and the Welcome Centre for the Social Economy in Baden-Württemberg play in this, ProRecognition spoke to Ms Anette Buhles, Deputy Director of Nursing.
Ms Buhles, how important are the networking events organised by ProRecognition and the Welcome Centre for the Social Economy in Baden-Württemberg for your recruitment efforts?
These introductory events are of great importance to us. Since 2023, we have been regularly taking part in these free online job fairs to attract nursing staff from abroad. These events give us the opportunity to make direct contact with potential new employees from abroad and get to know them in a digital environment. It is particularly helpful that the ProRecognition recognition advisers are present during the introductory events and support the professionals in their native language. In addition, the Welcome Centre for the Social Economy in Baden-Württemberg sends us the professionals’ profiles in advance – a sort of CV. This allows us to form a clear picture of the candidates beforehand and prepare optimally for the interviews.
How exactly have the introductory events influenced your recruitment?
The introductory events have proved to be extremely effective. In 2023, we already hired a ProRecognition nurse through this format. In July 2024, we were able to make job offers to two further candidates from Algeria.
How does Brüderklinikum Julia Lanz support international staff in joining their team?
We place great importance on ensuring that our international staff integrate quickly and effectively. Immediately upon their arrival, we offer them language courses funded by us, which are specifically tailored to the care sector. These courses last around 4 to 6 months and take place 3–4 days a week. On 1–2 days a week, the new colleagues are already working on the ward to learn the language in practice and apply specialist terminology. This combination of theory and practice ensures that they feel well prepared and confident.
Why are good German language skills so important for your staff?
Good German language skills are of central importance to us because they directly influence the quality of patient care. Clear and precise communication is vital in the care sector to avoid misunderstandings and ensure safe patient care. Furthermore, good language skills facilitate integration into the team and help our new staff settle in quickly and feel at home.
What is the pathway from language courses to induction training?
Once they have completed their language courses, our new staff members begin their induction training. During this phase, we provide them with intensive preparation for their specific duties and familiarise them with all the relevant details of day-to-day care work at our clinic.
What is life like for international healthcare professionals in Mannheim?
Mannheim is a multicultural city that offers our international staff many opportunities to feel at home and integrate. Since 2016, we have welcomed healthcare professionals from various countries, including Albania, Kosovo, Bosnia and Herzegovina, India, Ukraine and, since 2023, Algeria.
What support do new staff receive upon arrival?
Our integration officer, Ms Schneider, plays a key role in supporting our new colleagues. She accompanies them on visits to government offices and doctors’ appointments and helps with finding accommodation. In addition, we organise cultural activities to help new colleagues settle in more quickly and get to know their new surroundings.
How do you attract new staff?
Many of our new staff members join us through recommendations from existing colleagues. We often hear: “I have a friend or relative who might also be interested.” This word-of-mouth approach works brilliantly for us. We’re always delighted to receive new recommendations!
At Brüderklinikum Julia Lanz, integration isn’t just a priority – it’s a way of life. Here, you don’t just find a job, but a home and a team that supports you every step of the way – Arbnor Rexhaj, a nurse from Kosovo.