In recent years, Ohio’s healthcare landscape has changed as more independent hospitals and physician groups are joining larger health systems. This trend affects not only how care is delivered but how our local economies function.

In North Central Ohio and across the state, business owners continue to face a shortage of qualified staff. No matter what industry you’re in, finding skilled workers remains a significant hurdle. Why? Several reasons. An aging workforce, fewer younger workers entering skilled trades, and shifting expectations around how and where people want to work.

In our global economy, businesses like yours depend on materials, products, and parts that come from many different countries. The supply chain works smoothly most of the time, but it can be shaken up by unexpected events. Tariffs are one such challenge.

Many businesses are asking the same question: how can we attract and keep good employees when the competition is so tough? The good news is that there are several strategies that can help. By improving pay, benefits, flexibility, and company culture, businesses can become places where employees want to stay and grow.

The medical field is changing fast. Hospitals and large health systems are growing bigger and more private practices are being bought out. As a result, many doctors and healthcare providers worry about losing their independence, not just in how they treat patients, but in how they manage their money and careers.

For many businesses in Ohio and across the country, the cost of doing business is going up. Prices for materials, supplies, rent, and even electricity are all rising. When operational costs go up, it can be harder for small businesses to make a profit.