A lot of organizations want someone who can raise quality of care, improve cost efficiencies, help to market services, and handle a lot of internal issues. They're raising the bar in terms of the standards they're setting, and you can't do that without raising the caliber of the people you bring in. DONs also are getting more respect. DONs who have worked with prospective payment are commanding higher salaries. Lane also notes that PPS-related pressures are making it more of a seller's market.
Turnover is at an all-time high.
It's hard to get good people and money can be a motivating factor. I've also heard that Alzheimer's facilities pay better. Assisted living providers also pay for administrative experience, although their definition of experience ranges more widely. Experience with Alzheimer's care is also a good bargaining chip, says Lane. If so, front-line employees with Alzheimer's experience are not sharing in the bounty.