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BayCare's Commitment to Nursing Excellence

In a remarkable acknowledgment of its unwavering dedication to nursing excellence, BayCare Health System has been awarded the Promoting Environment for Excellence in Nursing Practice Icon Award by the Florida Nurses Association (FNA). This prestigious award celebrates organizations that demonstrate a profound commitment to creating supportive and innovative environments for nursing practice.

The award ceremony took place on September 25, 2025, during the FNA Membership Assembly, where BayCare leaders accepted the honor, further solidifying its reputation as a healthcare leader in Florida.

Leadership Commitment

According to BayCare's President and CEO, Stephanie Conners, the award highlights the organization’s steadfast commitment to the well-being and professional growth of its nurses. "Supporting our nurses is deeply personal to me," she stated, understanding firsthand the challenges faced by nursing professionals. "This honor reflects how we empower and equip our nurses to provide the best possible care."

BayCare has developed a culture where nurses are valued and their contributions are recognized. Trish Shucoski, Chief Nurse Executive at BayCare, echoes this sentiment, emphasizing that nurse-led initiatives like the Professional Practice Councils and the Voices of Extraordinary Care program provide platforms for nurses to be heard and respected.

A Nurturing Workplace Culture

Why the Award Matters

The FNA's Icon Award signifies that BayCare is going beyond the ordinary to foster a workplace where nurses can thrive both personally and professionally. Willa Hill, FNA Executive Director, lauded BayCare's commitment to nurse well-being after attending one of their Nurses Week celebrations. This recognition not only places BayCare among the elite in the healthcare industry but also showcases its role in enhancing nurse morale and job satisfaction.

"Our unmatched workplace culture nurtures and empowers our nurses, who make up a substantial part of our workforce, to fulfill our mission effectively," added Shucoski. The collaboration and shared decision-making processes encouraged at BayCare have contributed significantly to its innovative workplace environment.

Achievements and Honors

This award adds to BayCare’s already impressive list of accolades, which positions it as a national leader in promoting workforce well-being within the healthcare sector. Some notable recognitions include:

• - Well-Being Excellence™ designation from the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC).
• - Achieving 13 Pathway to Excellence® hospital designations and four ambulatory surgery center designations from ANCC.
• - Recognition by the American Medical Association's Joy in Medicine® Health System Recognition Program for its efforts in improving physician well-being and reducing burnout.
• - Inclusion in USA Today and Energage's Top Workplaces in the USA ranking.
• - Recognition as one of PEOPLE®'s Companies That Care and selected by Fortune as a Best Workplace in Health Care™.

BayCare's Broader Impact

BayCare has established itself not only as a premier healthcare provider but also as a beacon of support for its healthcare workforce. With an expansive network comprising 16 hospitals, the organization is a significant provider of behavioral health and pediatric services in the Tampa Bay area.

Its mission extends beyond just providing healthcare; it aims at truly improving the health and well-being of the community through compassionate, high-quality services. BayCare’s extensive array of services includes not only hospital care but also a network of urgent care locations, imaging centers, and home care services, highlighting the organization’s commitment to comprehensive health solutions.

As a non-profit organization, BayCare is dedicated to serving the needs of its community while fostering a culture of excellence within its workforce. This latest award from the Florida Nurses Association further affirms BayCare's mission to prioritize the health of all it serves, effectively making a positive impact within and beyond the healthcare landscape.

In conclusion, the Icon Award from the FNA is not just a trophy for BayCare; it is a testament to the spirit of collaboration and dedication that the institution fosters among its nursing staff, ensuring they are well-equipped to deliver exceptional care to the people they serve.