#United States #Clearwater, Florida #BayCare Health #Well-Being Excellence #Nurse Support

BayCare Recognized for Workplace Well-Being

BayCare Health System has achieved national recognition from the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) as the first and only health care organization in Florida to be awarded the Well-Being Excellence™ credential. This prestigious honor signifies BayCare’s unwavering dedication to promoting well-being among its over 10,000 nursing staff and marks a significant advancement in workplace wellness initiatives statewide.

Commitment to Employee Wellness

The Well-Being Excellence™ designation evaluates the effectiveness of well-being programs within the healthcare sector. In today's healthcare environment, where burnout among staff has become alarmingly prevalent, this acknowledgment highlights the crucial support that BayCare offers to its employees. Recent statistics indicate that approximately 46% of healthcare workers reported experiencing burnout in 2022, a marked increase from 32% just four years earlier, as reported by the CDC.

BayCare has implemented several key initiatives aimed at enhancing its employees' experience and well-being. One notable program is its nurse-led peer leadership initiative, which reflects the organization’s commitment to creating a supportive work atmosphere. The recognition from ANCC not only acknowledges BayCare’s accomplishments but also serves as an incentive for the organization to continue innovating in the realm of employee wellness.

Perspectives from BayCare Leadership

Trish Shucoski, DNP, MSN, RN, NEA-BC, the chief nurse executive at BayCare, expressed pride in the recognition, stating, “We are honored that BayCare has been recognized as a national leader and pioneer in promoting well-being and resilience. This award is an exciting way to demonstrate that our team members feel supported, valued, and equipped to thrive.”

Nikki Daily, chief team resources officer at BayCare, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that the Well-Being Excellence™ designation is a testimony to BayCare’s commitment not only to the health and well-being of its employees but also to the broader community it serves. The standards set by this recognition reinforce BayCare's standing as a desired employer and a respected entity in the healthcare industry.

Comprehensive Well-Being Programs

In order to attain the Well-Being Excellence credential for 2025, BayCare meticulously detailed its current offerings that contribute to the workforce's wellness. These include:

• - Wellness programs via Team Resources,
• - An Employee Assistance Program (EAP) featuring over 200 therapists for confidential counseling to staff and their dependents,
• - Robust recruitment and retention strategies,
• - Collaborative interprofessional shared decision-making practices,
• - Meaningful recognition initiatives to enhance staff morale,
• - Implementation of safety measures,
• - Diverse professional development opportunities.

Each of these components plays a critical role in fostering a culture of well-being that prioritizes the health and happiness of employees.

Looking Forward

Laura J. Wood, DNP, RN, NEA-BC, FAAN, and president of the ANCC, remarked on the importance of workplace well-being, stating, “Workplace well-being is critical in improving the overall health of the nation's workforce. Organizational cultures contribute to both team effectiveness and personal well-being.” This recognition motivates BayCare to set even higher standards and encourages other organizations to pursue similar qualifications that support a culture of well-being within their own workplaces.

BayCare’s efforts do not go unnoticed, as it continuously garners accolades for its workplace culture, solidifying its reputation as a top-tier employer committed to enhancing team member welfare. This accolade joins a growing list of honors that demonstrate BayCare's initiative in establishing high standards for workforce well-being, particularly in the realm of healthcare.

In conclusion, BayCare’s commitment to creating a supportive environment for its team members is not only a key factor in alleviating burnout among healthcare professionals but also a pioneer model for other healthcare organizations looking to enhance their own workplace cultures. As BayCare continues to prioritize well-being initiatives, it remains steadfast in its mission to improve the health of all it serves throughout the larger Tampa Bay and Central Florida region.

For more information about BayCare, visit their official website at BayCare.org.