The Far West Division and The Mountain Division are standardizing the Meditech Menus.
Go Live Dates:
MTN – Eastern Idaho – June 16, Brigham City and Cache Valley – June 18, Ogden Regional – June 22-23, Mountain View – June 24, Lakeview – June 25, Timpanogos Regional – June 29, West Valley – June 30
FWD – Good Samaritan – July 13-14, Regional SJ – July 15, Southern Hills – July 16, Los Robles – July 20-21, West Hills – July 21, Riverside – July 22-23, Sunrise – July 27-28, Mountainview – July 29-30
At HCA Healthcare, nurses are the cornerstone of patient care and considered the lifeblood of the organization
HCA Healthcare’s Senior Vice President & Chief Nurse Executive, Jane Englebright, Ph.D., RN, CENP, FAAN, says that because nurses are with patients and their families during some of the most important and vulnerable moments in life, it means they have a unique opportunity to make a difference. And they can positively impact both outcomes and the care experience for every patient.
Englebright recently provided her thoughts through an executive Q&A.
Why is it important for nurses to have a voice in their profession?
ENGLEBRIGHT:In the United States, nursing is the largest healthcare profession, with more than 3.8 million registered nurses nationwide. I’m also a nurse. Many of us pursue this profession because we care deeply about improving peoples’ lives. Nurses are insightful, creative and passionate about patient care, and their perspective is invaluable because they spend more time with patients than anyone else in a hospital. As we advocate for patients, our voices influence positive changes for the practice of nursing and, ultimately, that improves patient care. So it’s important for healthcare leaders to create open environments where nurses’ voices are heard and acted upon because it can lead to exciting advancements in patient care.
Listening to nurses through surveys and focus groups helps leadership understand what nurses need to advance their careers as well as to build and maintain a realistic worklife balance to care for their families. Giving a voice to nurses has significant benefits to the organization and its mission to care for and improve human life, but also to the amazing people who deliver that care with compassion and expertise.
As we advocate for patients, our voices influence positive changes for the practice of nursing and, ultimately, that improves patient care.
How do healthcare organizations benefit when nurses are heard and supported?
ENGLEBRIGHT:Historically, the voices of nurses have led to better patient care. From Florence Nightingale to Clara Barton, we’ve seen that some of the greatest success stories in healthcare occur when nurses are given latitude in guiding decisions that affect patients. That’s the approach we’ve taken at HCA Healthcare for many years now, and it has unlocked possibilities that we and others in care delivery hadn’t yet realized.
For example, 10 years ago, through our CNO Council, nurses asked for a tool to electronically document patients’ vital signs. Documentation was done at that time mostly room-to-room with pen and paper. Automation would create significant time savings for nurses, and would lead to better and safer care for our patients. Companies were asked to present their vital sign solutions to a group of nurses from HCA Healthcare who tested the tools and chose the right technology for them. The tool they selected didn’t exist until these nurses told us what they needed, and that probably wouldn’t have happened if we weren’t actively seeking their perspective.
More recently, we surveyed more than 800 of our nurses for their feedback on advancing nursing practice at our hospitals. Through the survey, we found that a large portion of documentation was neither efficient nor effective. Thanks to our nurses, Evidence-based Clinical Documentation (EBCD) was born.
The EBCD tool helps nurses spend more time with their patients and less time documenting the encounters. The patient-centered focus of EBCD minimizes the time spent inputting data, and at the same time, allows the information that has been entered into the medical record to be extracted in a more meaningful way. As a result, we’ve seen our nurses save at least 30 minutes on documentation, per shift.
Besides the surveys you mentioned previously, what are some additional ways HCA Healthcare ensures nurses’ voices are heard?
ENGLEBRIGHT:We have a number of ongoing vehicles and venues to give voice to our nurses:
Professional Practice Councils.Every hospital within HCA Healthcare has these councils, which exist to proactively identify issues and opportunities to improve care. They are venues for bringing forth new ideas and for testing innovations in care delivery. The councils systematically raise the bar on nursing performance.
Advisory Councils.These specialty councils govern how best practices are shared across the health system and include nursing representatives from each division and various clinical roles, including direct care nursing staff and nurse leaders.
Nurses at every level of our organization.While nurses are best known for being on the front lines of care, they are stepping beyond nurse director and CNO titles and into positions such as CEO and COO. Nurses in C-suite roles are helping to shape business and operational decisions across the enterprise.
Vital Voices.Through this program, which utilizes a continuous listening approach, colleagues actively seek conversations to solve problems and generate ideas. This allows nurses to provide real-time feedback and see real-time improvement.
Inspire App.The app is an easy way for nurses to recognize excellence, chart professional growth, and connect with mentors and peers.
Our values come to life every day when we provide patient care with dignity, compassion, and competence to anyone who needs it, no matter the patient’s individual circumstance.
Our values come to life every day when we foster a work environment where everyone is treated with respect and loyalty and has an equal chance to succeed and grow.
Our values come to life when we support our communities and those in need.
We believe excellence in healthcare starts with these values as a foundation. Therefore, we aim not to discriminate. We aim not to harm; instead, we aim to nurture and support. Events unfolding throughout our nation go against these values and have many of us hurting, anxious, and concerned for one another, our families, and our communities. Our commitment to a diverse and inclusive organization is not passive; it is active.
To make it easier for our direct care nurses to work where they are most needed has required streamlining the way they are granted access to MEDITECH, one of our electronic health records systems. The IPS Identity & Access team has already worked with four divisions to successfully simplify MEDITECH access for direct care nurses, going from the frustration of dealing with thousands of MEDITECH access templates down to just a handful. It's more efficient, consistent across hospitals, and means managers should rarely need to submit eSAF requests for changes to MEDITECH access.
Up next: Extending the streamlining to other divisions, and possibly other positions.
For those utilizing a different EHR system outside of Meditech 5.6, attached are educational references reviewing COVID-19 screening for: Cerner, EPIC and Meditech Expanse.
Each Memorial Day we pay tribute to the men and women who paid the ultimate sacrifice on behalf of the security of our nation and the defense of American values. We stand in continued partnership with the United Way’s MISSION UNITED initiative and with our military families in remembrance of the fallen as we demonstrate our appreciation for their sacrifice.
This year our celebrations for the holiday won’t look like they have in prior years as a result of the coronavirus pandemic and social distancing measures. While large-scale, Memorial Day events won’t be taking place this year, there are still plenty of opportunities to recognize the holiday, from small backyard BBQs to driveway fireworks.
PBS will be hosting a special presentation of the star-studded National Memorial Day Concertwith new performances and tributes filmed in different locations around the country and iconic stories from past concerts. America’s night of remembrance will honor our troops, veterans, wounded warriors, all those who have given their lives for our nation, and their families.
StoryCorps offers a variety of stories from service members, veterans and their families through its Military Voices Initiative. This is an opportunity to honor their voices, amplify their experiences, and let them know that we—as a nation—are listening.
On behalf of HealthTrust, we thank the fallen heroes, our living veterans and their families.
Three months in to the pandemic, we find ourselves in the middle of Mental Health Month, observed annually in May. The circumstances of COVID-19 leave many grappling with isolation, anxiety and fear. There has never been a more important time to monitor your mental well-being and that of your loved ones. At HealthTrust Workforce Solutions, we are proud to stand with HCA Healthcare for the mental health of patients – and – for our more than 280,000 colleagues. Learn more below…
Affiliate Memorial Satilla Health in Waycross, Ga. goes green to bring awareness to Mental Health Month
As the global pandemic continues, mental health for all is critical, especially for front line workers and healthcare professionals. Through a variety of unique programs, HCA Healthcare is committed to helping our colleagues address their mental health needs during COVID-19.
“COVID-19 has exposed each of us to an array of emotions ― grief, fear, anxiety, loss and loneliness. These feelings are expected in a crisis. They make us human. But, you don’t have to deal with them on your own,” said Dr. Frank Drummond, chief medical officer of behavioral health services at HCA Healthcare.
“If you are a colleague feeling overwhelmed or discouraged, HCA Healthcare wants you to know that there are people, resources and tools to help you during these unprecedented times.”
Caring for the caregiver during crisis
As the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention warns, doctors, nurses and first responders are among those who may be most impacted by stress during this pandemic, and we’re dedicated to providing support to our colleagues on the front lines as this crisis continues.
Heather Godfrey, nurse at affiliate Cache Valley Hospital in North Logan, Utah.
“As nurses, we believe in doing what is right for patients. I’m glad that my organization, HCA Healthcare, has been very proactive about providing us with the supplies and resources we need to do just that. That gives me confidence every day,” explains Heather Godfrey, nurse at affiliate Cache Valley Hospital in North Logan, Utah.
“I’m ok when I’m at work. You know, you show up and put on your ‘nurse face’ so you can help others cope with their issues. But, when you go home you have to process all this and that can be hard sometimes,” Godfrey adds. “I find comfort in other nurses, not just locally but across the U.S. We are all in this together and have to support each other. You can’t do it by yourself—you have to rely on your team. We also have a free help line that all our colleagues can use to help stay mentally well, 24/7, which is an awesome resource!”
Learn more about the programs and services offered to HCA Healthcare colleagues to help with mental health and wellness below.
Nurse Care
Nurse Care is a program to help all HCA Healthcare hospital-based nurses with work/life balance, managing stress and anxiety, promoting self-care and handling common nursing issues. Through this program, nurses have remote access to licensed psychologists, social workers, alcohol and drug counselors and marriage and family therapists. Nurse Care is free, confidential and available 24/7 by calling (800) 480-1234.
Beacon Health Wellbeing Program
With the Beacon Wellbeing Program, colleagues can schedule confidential phone or video call sessions with a licensed counselor. Colleagues receive five no-cost sessions per issue for each qualifying family member.
HCA Healthcare colleagues can learn more at HCAhrAnswers.com (click HCA Rewards and search EAP) or by calling (800) 434-5100.
The HCA Healthcare Hope Fund
As HCA Healthcare colleagues, it is our priority to take care of patients as well as each other. Our colleagues are facing extraordinary financial hardships as a result of COVID-19, which can trigger mental stress points. For our colleagues who experience changes in financial circumstances and show a demonstrated need, the HCA Healthcare Hope Fund stands ready to help. Since its inception in 2005, the HCA Healthcare Hope Fund has given more than $58 million to colleagues in crisis with the help of more than 33,000 employee donors annually.
PsychHub
In April, HCA Healthcare joined a coalition spearheaded by Psych Hub, which recently debuted a free, national COVID-19 Mental Health Resource Hub. This ground breaking collaborative effort joins together the leading mental health advocacy groups, healthcare industry partners and the Department of Veterans Affairs. We’re proud to come together with other leading organizations in our shared commitment to provide our communities, healthcare workers and those on the front lines with resources to manage their mental health.
Doctor On Demand
Doctor On Demand is currently available for all HCA Healthcare colleagues and their dependents with a $0 copay. This 24/7 telemedicine app allows you to meet with board-certified physicians via video on a smartphone, tablet or computer to review symptoms and medications and get recommended treatment options. In addition to colds, sinus infections and skin and eye conditions, physicians can also provide care for anxiety, depression and stress, among other concerns.
Sanvello App
The Optum Behavioral Health Sanvello app, which helps with anxiety, depression and stress, is offering free premium access to all HCA Healthcare colleagues during the COVID-19 pandemic. Colleagues have access to features like daily mood tracking, coping tools, guided journeys and community support.
“You’re not alone”
“As we all continue to navigate this time together, know that you’re not alone,” Drummond concludes.
If you or someone you know are in a crisis, please seek help immediately. The Suicide Prevention Lifeline (1-800-273-TALK) offers free confidential, around-the-clock support for people in distress as well as prevention and crisis resources for oneself and others.
9-1-1 emergency service is still available during the COVID-19 pandemic and may be a necessary resource if a friend, family member, or employee is facing a severe mental health crisis.
HealthTrust Workforce Solutions is proud to be a part of HCA Healthcare, one of the nation’s leading providers of healthcare services, comprising 186 hospitals and approximately 2,000 sites of care, including surgery centers, freestanding ERs, urgent care centers, and physician clinics, in 21 states and the United Kingdom.
Every one of our approximately 280,000 colleagues—whether providing direct patient care or supporting those who do—play a critically important role in helping to ensure our patients receive the best possible care. This National Hospital Week, May 10-16, we pay tribute to all our talented and compassionate team members who work together each day to advance healthcare across our organization and throughout the communities we serve.
Even in uncertain times, the one true constant has always been our people, and within the last few days, we have received an overwhelming response from colleagues across the country who have submitted thank you notes in recognition of their fellow colleagues who have stood tall and bravely faced this global health crisis head on.
Here are just a few of the many notes of appreciation received to date.
Frontline Fighters
“Thank you all frontline fighters for being so brave and decisive to battle against the effects of this pandemic. Not too many have the courage to go to battle and not knowing where the enemy is, even though you hear and see the damage and pain it is causing. Not too many risk their own life to exhaustion, while leaving their loved ones at home, waiting for your return. Thank you for keeping us, our friends, family and community alive and healthy! You are all in our prayers, with admiration and pride. Thank you!” – Camilo Giraldo, HealthTrust Workforce Solutions, IT Analytics
“Thank you to all of our healthcare workers who are selflessly dedicating their time to help others. You are heroes for choosing to be on the frontlines every day during this dangerous time. Sending peaceful vibes your way, and hoping for positive news to come.” – Kellyn Johnson, Parallon, Learning & Development
“I would like to thank all the nurses, doctors, healthcare providers on the frontlines that are working diligently to take care of our patients and their families. I appreciate all you are doing for all of us. Thank you for keeping us all safe!” – Lisa Garcia, HealthTrust Workforce Solutions, Verified Professionals
Information Technology (IT) colleagues and patient care providers at affiliate Del Sol Medical Center in El Paso, Texas.
Unsung Heroes
“Our Environmental Services Teams are another group of unsung heroes! You make a hospital a safe place for someone to walk into when he/she needs care. You make a room like new between patients, so the next person admitted has a feeling and experience like he/she is the first person to ever occupy it. You make an ICU a safer place for healthcare providers to work day in and day out. You go into battle against infectious organisms so that people who enter our hospitals—to give or receive care—can afterward walk back out of those doors and take in the gift of a deep breath once again. Thank you for showing up and doing the painstaking work every day that benefits all of us.” – Josh Sadler, Corporate IT
“Thank you to our incredible Employee Health department! These nurses have been working behind the scenes to provide care like family for our caregivers since day one. We are so lucky to have our Employee Health nurses, Brandy and Beryl, who are always a calm presence in the midst of an ever changing environment.” – Jennifer Iller, Medical City Arlington, Human Resources
“I would like to thank all the wonderful healthcare colleagues that work at HCA Houston Healthcare Conroe! During my 15+ years with HCA Healthcare, I have seen our employees step up to the challenge time and time again, and 2020 has been no different. Each person’s commitment to HCA Houston Healthcare Conroe has created a great culture and our employees raise the bar every day in their care for our patients and each other!” – Diana Howell, HCA Houston Healthcare Conroe, Human Resources
Resilience and Compassion
“Remembering my time in the military during the event of 9/11, I noticed thousands of individuals were inspired to join the military. Now, during this unprecedented event, I am certain your sacrifice is inspiring a new generation across the globe to join the healthcare provider field. Thank you so much for all of your hard work and sacrifice!” – Neal Rigsby, Corporate Litigation
“Thank you for the resilience and compassion you bring forth every day. It’s an honor to support you in your service to patients and their families in these challenging times.” – Kelsey McManus, HR Shared Operations
“I want to offer my admiration and gratitude to all of our caregivers. The strength of the HCA Healthcare culture runs deep throughout this organization. It is our caregivers who carry this on through their compassion, courage and commitment to excellence. Thank you for caring like family every day and living the commitment to our mission!” – Charlie Toney, HR Employee Benefits
“You are our heroes 365 days every year. But during these days, it seems what you’ve signed up for places you in harm’s way more than ever. ‘Thank you’ seems woefully inadequate, so I add my prayers for your well-being…emotionally, spiritually, physically and in every other way possible. Thank you!” – Dennis Morgan, ITG Talent Acquisition
Colleagues in the OR at affiliate TriStar Centennial in Nashville, Tenn.
Flower Power
“A Blooming Tribute at the Bradford Robertson Color Garden’s arches at Cheekwood Botanical Gardens in Nashville, TN, has been purchased in honor of HCA Healthcare heroes. It is my way to say ‘Thank you.’ My hope is you will be able to get out there and enjoy it with your families soon.” – Susan Kirk, HR Employee Benefits
Express Your Gratitude
If you would like to share your appreciation of our healthcare heroes, submit a thank you note on the “Thank You, Healthcare Heroes” page. Let our healthcare heroes know that their courage, diligence, selflessness and passion makes you proud to be part of HCA Healthcare and HealthTrust Workforce Solutions.
HealthTrust Workforce Solutions is proud to be a part of HCA Healthcare, one of the nation’s leading providers of healthcare services, comprising 186 hospitals and approximately 2,000 sites of care, including surgery centers, freestanding ERs, urgent care centers, and physician clinics, in 21 states and the United Kingdom.
As nurse leaders within HealthTrust Workforce Solutions, we partner with our colleagues to promote clinical excellence throughout the communities we serve. HealthTrust advocates on behalf of our ultimate client, the patient, ensuring that they receive the highest quality, cost-effective care in a professional, compassionate, and ethical environment.
