Workers in the healthcare industry have been presented with many challenges over the past few years that include the pandemic and workforce shortages. Despite these challenges, Wellstar has been named one of the Fortune 100 Best Companies to Work For in 2024. This is the sixth time that the Marietta-based nonprofit community health system has been named to this prestigious list.
To deliver high-quality and compassionate care, the needs of the physicians, caregivers and team members must be heard. That is why Wellstar works to understand the unique experiences and perspectives of its team members—and fosters a culture of trust, honesty and transparency that empowers each team member.
A key piece of Wellstar’s strategy and culture is honoring every voice, which includes participating in the annual Great Place to Work Trust Index Survey. Every Wellstar team member is provided the opportunity to anonymously take the survey, and in 2023, 87% of Wellstar team members completed it. Leaders and teams across the organization utilize the survey results to create unique action plans where team members are directly involved to identify actionable opportunities to improve their work environment and relationships.
“This recognition reflects our commitment to fostering a culture of trust that empowers each of you to be difference makers as you care for our patients, communities and each other,” said Candice L. Saunders, president and CEO. “It’s because of our team members that Wellstar has again earned a place on this prestigious list and was recognized as one of five health systems in the country, the only health system and one of six Georgia-based companies.”
In response to team member feedback, Wellstar invested $45 million over the past three years to expand benefits that personally and professionally support its team members. Benefits include growth and development programs, extra days off, on-demand access to mindfulness and meditation tools, cash payouts for self-care needs, and financial support for student loan payments, among others. These benefits are updated and refined based on continuing feedback from team members across the system.
“I am proud of the culture we have built and sustained,” said David A. Jones, executive vice president and chief human resources officer. “There is no finish line in the pursuit of continual improvement. Listening to our team members and honoring every one of their voices is part of who we are and how we will continue to be a place where people want to work throughout their careers.”
