Decatur Health Decatur Health's Year-Round Plan
Strategies that address workforce recruitment and retention are essential to providing optimal health in Kansas. The Workforce Strategies Award recognizes a team of employees, providers or volunteers who have significantly contributed to the well-being, retention or recruitment of health care workers at their facility.
Decatur Health's Planning and Activities Committee has implemented a year-round employee engagement strategy designed to strengthen workplace culture, improve morale and support retention in a rural Critical Access Hospital. Established in 2021, the committee includes employees from departments such as nursing, human resources, supply chain, information technology, social services and admissions. The team works to break down silos, encourage collaboration and create a work environment where employees feel connected, appreciated and motivated.
The committee organizes both planned and surprise activities throughout the year, including the annual Employee Celebration, Employee Appreciation Day, Hospital Week festivities, holiday celebrations, PAC pop-ups, wellness activities, community involvement opportunities and employee recognition programs such as the Addleman Award. Recognizing the challenges of a 24/7 health care setting, the committee intentionally schedules activities across shifts and uses multiple communication methods, including signs, calendars, reminders and word of mouth, to reach employees who may not rely on email.
The PAC team’s efforts have had a meaningful impact on employee satisfaction and retention. Staff surveys show increased workplace satisfaction, and Decatur Health reported a 4.36 percent reduction in turnover within 12 months. The committee’s work has strengthened interdepartmental relationships, improved communication across shifts, boosted morale, increased employee referrals and helped create traditions that reinforce organizational identity. Through regular meetings, shared decision-making, staff feedback and creative problem-solving, the committee has helped Decatur Health build a more welcoming, cohesive and supportive workplace culture.