Avatar Solutions, a survey data management and performance improvement company, has recognized Navicent Health for the most improved employee engagement score among all Avatar clients for 2014. The health system has also been named a finalist for efforts to improve overall job satisfaction.

“At Navicent Health, we divide our focus into three categories – strategy, operations and people, with people the most important. We are committed to making improvements and instituting changes that demonstrate to our employees that they are valued. Navicent Health may have the most amazing business strategy, the most efficient operations, but without the dedication of our people, we would fail,” said Dr. Ninfa M. Saunders, President and CEO of Navicent Health. 

Dr. Saunders points out that Navicent Health engages in talent mining and coaching employees in order to allow them to reach their highest potential. She also emphasizes that employees are hired based not only on their talent and expertise, but also on their values, particularly those of integrity, caring and respect.

“When we hire, we are not only seeking the most talented, but also those with kindness, with values that align with Navicent Health’s. This is the way to achieve optimal performance,” said Dr. Saunders. 

In order to improve job satisfaction and increase employee engagement, Navicent Health partnered with Avatar Solutions in 2013 to conduct its first annual employee engagement survey. Employees were asked to candidly answer survey questions on topics related to job satisfaction, recognition, career advancement, teamwork, leadership and overall effectiveness of the organization. Employees were also asked to make suggestions that they felt would improve the organization, and many suggested programs that have been put in place over the last year.

“Our employees are intelligent, experts in their fields, and know firsthand the ways to increase efficiency, enhance patient care and reduce costs. We heard their feedback and instituted a number of changes based on the employee engagement survey,” said Bernard Price, Vice President and Chief Human Resource Officer for Navicent Health.

Those changes included the following:

· Increased communications between employees and executives through Town Hall Meetings, “Lunch with the CEO,” and the creation of a CEO Advisory Council.

· Improved morale through a system-wide employee picnic, Employee Recognition Banquet, Navicent Health Superheroes of Healthcare banquet, Employee Activities Committee and ongoing rewards and recognition. 

· Advanced talent development through tuition assistance and various programs including a Navicent Health Leadership Academy, Six Sigma Black Belt Fellowship and Lean Green Belt training. 

· Enhanced pay and benefits through merit based pay increases, a coworker leave donation process, new wellness incentives and Saturday hours at the Employee Apothecary pharmacy.

Employee participation in the 2015 annual survey increased by nine percent, with 80 percent of employees sharing their opinions this year, representing "Best In Class for Healthcare Employers" participation.

“Without our employees and their dedication to Navicent Health, this award would not have been possible. The feedback that we receive is incredible and provides insight into improving each employee’s work experience. By participating in the survey process and honestly sharing their opinions, our employees have continued to support and improve Navicent Health and the work that we are doing for our patients,” said Dr. Saunders.