Ochsner Health announced that the American Medical Association (AMA) has recognized the system as one of 44 healthcare organizations in the 2021 Joy in Medicine Health System Recognition Program. This distinction is given to health systems that have demonstrated commitment to preserving the well-being of their healthcare team members by engaging in proven efforts to combat work-related stress and burnout.
The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic put a spotlight on the importance of healthcare systems supporting team members. A national study examining the experiences of physicians and other healthcare workers who worked during the COVID-19 pandemic found that 38% of staff self-reported experiencing anxiety or depression, while 43% had burnout.
“The past 19 months have been especially challenging for those of us who work in healthcare, and it’s never been clearer just how important it is to take care of our team,” said Nigel Girgrah, MD, chief wellness officer, Ochsner Health. “Having an established Office of Professional Well-Being enabled us to quickly assess evolving needs and respond with expanded offerings in addition to ongoing access to counseling, mindfulness education, and decompression zones to help combat burnout.”
“The COVID-19 pandemic has placed extraordinary stress on physicians and other healthcare professionals,” said AMA President Gerald E. Harmon, MD. “While it is always important for health systems to focus on the well-being of care teams, the imperative is greater than ever as acute stress from combatting the COVID-19 pandemic has contributed to higher rates of work overload, anxiety and depression. The health systems we recognize are true leaders in promoting an organizational response that makes a difference in the lives of the healthcare workforce.”