Beyond the Call: One Nurse’s Inspiring Journey as a DAISY Nurse Leader Award Nominee
In celebration of Nurses Month, Propelus was privileged to interview Tiffany Banks, Director of Nursing at Baptist Health Lexington and a DAISY Nurse Leader Award 2024 nominee. This award, from The DAISY Foundation, honors nurse leaders who demonstrate extraordinary compassion and skill. Tiffany’s 18-year nursing journey, which she shared with us, is a powerful example of leadership that puts people first. While her initial focus was on patient care, her career evolved, marked by her willingness to embrace new challenges. Her acceptance of the nurse manager role, despite initial hesitation, speaks to a mindset of continuous improvement – a drive to grow and make a greater impact. What stands out in Tiffany’s story is the emphasis she places on the influence of mentors and the power of belief in one’s potential. This resonates deeply with the idea of engaging mindfully and meaningfully. She highlights the importance of supportive relationships and their role in shaping her leadership approach. Tiffany’s leadership philosophy centers on creating a supportive environment for her team. This is life-centricity in action – recognizing the importance of the well-being of the individual. This approach has led to significant achievements, such as the impressive reduction in hospital-acquired pressure injuries (HAPIs). This success stemmed from empowering her team, demonstrating her commitment to achieving positive outcomes. The DAISY Award nomination is a testament to the impact of Tiffany’s leadership. Her colleagues emphasize her accessibility, support, and ability to foster a culture of trust and compassion. These qualities reflect a leader who is truly doing what is right and good. In our interview, Tiffany provides valuable insights on: Her path to leadership and its evolution. How she empowers her team to drive change. The critical importance of work-life balance for nurses. Her vision for the future of nursing leadership. Tiffany’s journey underscores the profound impact of leadership rooted in compassion, empowerment, and a dedication to positive change. We invite you to watch the full interview to hear Tiffany’s inspiring story and gain valuable perspectives on leadership and the nursing profession. Want to thank a nurse? We’ve created downloadable thank you cards for you to share with a nurse you admire. Let them know their hard work doesn’t go unnoticed!
How a Regional Healthcare Network Improved Compliance & Efficiency by 90%
Overview A large regional healthcare network based in the Northeastern United States recognized the critical importance of ensuring their licensed professionals met all compliance requirements. This involved the verification and ongoing monitoring of licenses, certifications, and registrations from various governing authorities. The following success story details their efforts to streamline these essential processes. It’s been one of the best decisions we’ve made. Identifying expiring licenses quickly and sharing that information is invaluable.” – Executive Assistant, Rehabilitation Hospital, part of the Regional Healthcare Network The Challenge of Manual Processes Committed to compliance and efficiency, the large regional healthcare network identified issues within its manual license verification and management processes. These processes involved cross-referencing employee licensure on the Department of Public Health and other issuing boards’ websites and emailing supervisors about upcoming license expirations. This was time-consuming, taking approximately 10-20 hours per month per colleague, and created risks of errors and oversights that could lead to employees working with expired licenses. The manual system also limited the capacity to manage a growing staff efficiently. The Propelus Solution: EverCheck Since its initial adoption in April 2020, the team has significantly enhanced its utilization of the EverCheck platform. Today, it leverages EverCheck’s capabilities, including compliance dashboards, comprehensive reporting functionalities, and timely system notifications, to meticulously track the status of licenses, certifications, and registrations, ensuring ongoing compliance. “Transitioning to EverCheck has streamlined the process immensely,” said the network’s executive assistant. “With a quick glance, I can identify upcoming expirations and proactively address them, ensuring our team remains compliant and our operations run smoothly.” The Results By implementing EverCheck, the regional healthcare network improved compliance and significantly reduced the time and effort required for primary source verification. Reflecting on the transformative impact of EverCheck, the executive assistant said, “It has been one of the best decisions we’ve made. The ability to quickly identify expiring licenses and share that vital information with our team is invaluable. Plus, it frees us up to work on other projects.” By transitioning from a manual license verification process, which previously consumed 20 hours per month, to utilizing EverCheck, the healthcare network now manages the process for a mere 2 hours monthly. This reduction represents an impressive 90% increase in efficiency. Not only does this streamlined approach allow for greater efficiency within their workflow, but it also translates to substantial cost savings in labor hours. With this newfound efficiency, the regional network’s team was able to reallocate valuable resources toward other critical areas of operations, ultimately enhancing productivity and driving organizational success. Conclusion The adoption of EverCheck by the regional healthcare network revolutionized the license verification processes, significantly reducing manual effort, mitigating compliance risks, and enhancing data accuracy. Their insights underscore the value of proactive adoption of technology solutions in optimizing healthcare operations and ensuring regulatory compliance. Take the Next Step Discover how Propelus and EverCheck can help your healthcare organization achieve compliance excellence while empowering your workforce. Learn more about EverCheck at evercheck.com Download the case study
Tips and Tools for New Nurses
Adjusting to a new career is a significant step, and in nursing, the transition is unique. Unlike many other professions, new nurses often find themselves immediately immersed in the demanding hospital environment. Long shifts, dynamic schedules, and the constant responsibility of patient care can feel overwhelming. But here’s the good news: you’re not alone. We understand the challenges you face, and we’re dedicated to ensuring you feel prepared, confident, and supported as you embark on this vital career. Think of us as being right there with you, saying, “We got you.” With insights and resources focused on your success, safety, and well-being, we aim to make your transition a smooth and positive one. This blog will guide you through what to expect in your first month, offering crucial success strategies, essential tools for your initial days, vital self-care advice, and key professional development resources. Propelus – and our suite of solutions (CE Broker, EverCheck, and our Data Solutions) – is here to help you confidently move from the classroom to making a real difference in patient care. What New Nurses Bring to the Team Your nursing education and clinical rotations have laid a strong foundation, providing you with practical experience in the hospital setting and patient care. These experiences are invaluable as you begin your career. The pace at which your responsibilities grow will depend on the healthcare facility’s needs and structure. Ideally, your first week will involve crucial onboarding processes, including understanding policies and procedures. Many organizations offer a nursing orientation to help you acclimate to their specific environment. This often includes in-depth training on electronic health records and opportunities to practice using the system. You’ll likely be paired with a mentor or preceptor – someone dedicated to supporting you and answering your questions during this initial phase. As your first month progresses, those initial nerves should begin to ease, and you’ll develop the confidence to take on more independent responsibilities. From monitoring vital signs and assessing patient conditions to administering medications, documenting care accurately, communicating effectively with the healthcare team, and providing essential patient support, you are equipped to make a meaningful impact. We’re here to support you every step of the way, ensuring you feel secure and ready. 6 Keys to Thriving as a New Nurse The fast-paced and demanding nature of nursing is well-known. Fortunately, these strategies can help you not just survive but thrive as you begin your professional journey. We’re in your corner, offering these tips to help you navigate this new chapter. 1. Build Connections Through Respect and Professionalism Every successful healthcare team relies on strong communication and positive relationships. As a new nurse, your daily interactions will involve a diverse group of professionals. Introducing yourself clearly, remembering names, and offering a respectful and professional demeanor are fundamental to building trust and rapport. These connections will not only make your transition smoother but also contribute to a more supportive patient care environment. We believe in the power of connection, and we know you’ll build strong ones. 2. Lean on Experienced Guidance for Support and Growth Finding a mentor early in your career is invaluable. An experienced nurse can offer practical advice, share insights into best practices, help you navigate challenging situations, and guide your professional growth. This mentorship can provide crucial support in balancing your personal and professional life while achieving your career aspirations. Seek out a mentor who understands the demands and rewards of nursing – someone who’s been there and can offer a guiding hand. 3. Prioritize Clarity for Optimal Patient Care Asking questions is not a sign of inexperience; it demonstrates a commitment to providing safe and effective care. In healthcare, clarity is paramount. Never hesitate to ask for clarification on procedures, medication administration, or any aspect of patient care you are unsure about. This proactive approach is crucial for preventing errors and ensuring the best possible outcomes for your patients. We’re here to say, it’s okay to ask – it shows you care. 4. Double-Check Everything for Accuracy and Confidence In the healthcare setting, accuracy is non-negotiable. From documenting vital signs to administering medications, double-checking all information is essential for patient safety. Remember that hospital policies and procedures can vary, so always verify information to prevent inconsistencies and potential errors. This meticulous approach will build your confidence and ensure you’re providing the best possible care. 5. Master Time Management for Efficient and Focused Care Delivery Effective time management and task prioritization are critical in the busy healthcare environment. As you manage multiple patients, organizing tasks based on urgency and importance is vital. Prioritizing patients with immediate needs and time-sensitive tasks ensures that all patients receive timely and appropriate care. Efficient time management will help you feel more in control and less overwhelmed. 6. Invest in Continuous Learning and Maintain Your Credentials Your nursing education doesn’t end with graduation. The healthcare field is constantly evolving, with new research, technologies, and best practices emerging. Pursuing specializations and earning certifications demonstrates your dedication to excellence and your commitment to providing the highest quality care. Remember to stay proactive in maintaining these credentials to ensure ongoing growth and competence. CE Broker by Propelus, our compliance management platform, can help. CE Broker simplifies continuing education (CE) tracking and management for licensed professionals, as well as offers personalized and automated solutions for monitoring renewal requirements, completing courses, and reaching compliance with confidence. In addition to providing essential CE courses, CE Broker’s Credential Tracker allows professionals to stay on top of their certification without the stress of manual tracking or missed renewal deadlines. EverCheck and our Data Solutions also verify and manage a wide range of certifications to healthcare organizations ensure their nursing teams are prepared. 5 Essential Tools for Your First Day: Prepared for Success Comfortable, Slip-Resistant Shoes Long shifts demand comfortable and supportive footwear. Investing in slip-resistant shoes is crucial for your well-being, reducing fatigue and the risk of accidents. Look for durable and
How workforce compliance solutions improve employee experience in a digital-first world
In collaboration with Becker’s Healthcare. The healthcare industry is facing enormous workforce challenges, with the average hospital turning over 106% of its workforce in the last five years. Such high turnover has staggering cost implications. Among those costs are expenses related to credential compliance. And if the urgency to recruit new employees causes organizations to make any mistakes related to credentialing compliance, fines from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) can further elevate those costs. During a featured session at the Becker’s Healthcare Human Resources + Talent Virtual Event sponsored by Propelus, Julie Walker, CEO of Propelus, moderated a discussion with Warren Mott, VP for HR service delivery and technology at Ochsner Health (Jefferson, La.), and Valerie Wiegele, director for regulatory assurance at Providence (Renton, Wash.). The panel discussion – called Enhancing the employee experience: Navigating HR & workforce compliance in the digital world – centered on strategies for transforming compliance processes in ways that remove friction and improve the employee experience. Read full article on Becker’s Hospital Review. Watch on-demand panel recording, “Enhancing the employee experience: Navigating HR & workforce compliance in the digital world”.
Setting a New Standard for Primary Source Verification: Expert Insights from Propelus and MedTrainer
The healthcare industry is facing a rapidly changing regulatory landscape, and it can be difficult for organizations to keep up with the latest requirements. One critical part of workforce and provider compliance is Primary Source Verification (PSV), which is the process of directly verifying the credentials of healthcare professionals at a primary source, like a licensing board or other entity. In a recent webinar, Joyce Siow-Yazzie, credentialing solutions consultant at MedTrainer, and Julie Walker, CEO at Propelus, discussed the new standard for PSV and how organizations can improve their processes to meet the new standard needed for PSV. Why is PSV More Challenging Now? Walker and Siow-Yazzie shared that several factors make PSV more challenging now than before. These include: Difficulty accessing data Managing the increasing volume of healthcare data The complexity of the verification process Evolving regulations Fraud and misrepresentation Need for continuous compliance monitoring What is the New Standard for PSV? The speakers shared that the new standard for PSV is on-demand automation, verifications from the original source, image capture, pricing predictability, continuous monitoring, and unparalleled board-level partnerships. How Can Organizations Level Up to This New Standard? Walker and Siow-Yazzie recommended several ways organizations can level up to this new standard. Those include: Checking licenses on-demand and continuously – using technology to automate verifications and stay current; Leveraging technology – implementing software solutions that streamline the PSV process; Collaborating with CVOs – partnering with Credential Verification Organizations (CVOs) for expertise and resources; and Establishing robust data analysis and monitoring practices – identifying and addressing potential issues early. What Does the Partnership Between Propelus and MedTrainer Mean for Customers? The MedTrainer and Propelus partnership revolutionizes provider credentialing by supercharging MedTrainer’s platform with Propelus’s industry-leading data capabilities, allowing customers to achieve a new standard of workforce and provider compliance. They can say goodbye to manual verifications, inaccurate or incomplete verifications, and static provider verifications. They can also welcome on-demand automation, continuous monitoring, and near real-time intelligence. Conclusion Industry changes and expectations are forcing a new standard for PSV. However, the speakers highlighted that by leveraging technology and partnering with the right providers, organizations can improve their processes and ensure compliance. Watch the Full Webinar To learn more about the new standard for PSV, watch the full webinar on-demand here.
Heart Smarts: Equipping Professionals to Support Cardiovascular Health
February is American Heart Month—a time to raise awareness about heart health and cardiovascular diseases. It’s also a time to recognize the critical role healthcare professionals play in supporting cardiovascular health and interventions. Heart disease remains the leading cause of death in the U.S., making it essential for providers to stay up-to-date with the latest knowledge, skills, and credentials. 1 At Propelus, we help ensure they do. Through EverCheck, CE Broker and our Data Solutions, we equip healthcare organizations with the tools to maintain compliance, streamline credential management, and keep their teams focused on what matters most—patient care. The Credentials that Save Lives In a cardiovascular emergency, every second matters. Healthcare professionals must have up-to-date certifications to provide lifesaving cardiac care, and organizations need a reliable way to track and verify these credentials. EverCheck streamlines the process helping healthcare organizations ensure their teams are prepared. EverCheck and our Data Solutions verify and manage a wide range of cardiac care and resuscitation certifications, including: American Heart Association (AHA) Certifications: Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS), Basic Life Support (BLS), Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS), Heartsaver® CPR AED, Pediatric Emergency Recognition and Stabilization (PEARS®) American Red Cross Certifications: Advanced Life Support (ALS), BLS, PALS Resuscitation Quality Improvement® (RQI) & HeartCode® Certifications: RQI Provider eCredential, ACLS HeartCode® eCard, BLS HeartCode® eCard Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP) Certifications: Advanced Provider, Instructor Renewal, and more By automating verification, EverCheck and our Data Solutions reduce administrative burdens and ensures healthcare professionals can deliver life-saving care with confidence. Advancing Heart Health Through Education Education is key to managing and treating heart disease. CE Broker makes it easy for healthcare professionals to access relevant continuing education (CE) courses that strengthen their knowledge and improve patient care. Some of the top cardiovascular health-related courses available through CE Broker include: Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS) Understanding Heart Failure Emergency Cardiac Care Guidelines Evidence-Based Care for Patients with Acute Heart Failure Cardiovascular Nursing: Interventional Cardiology (Course availability may vary by state and profession.) In addition to providing essential CE courses, CE Broker’s Credential Tracker allows professionals to stay on top of their cardiac care and resuscitation certifications—like CPR, ACLS, BLS, and PALS—without the stress of manual tracking or missed renewal deadlines. The Propelus Commitment At Propelus, we know that credential verification and continuing education are vital components of delivering high-quality patient care. That’s why we make it easier for healthcare professionals and organizations to stay ahead, ensuring that heart health remains a priority. For Heart Month, we are taking it one step further—CE Broker will be donating a portion of proceeds from subscription purchases to the American Heart Association. This means that when healthcare professionals invest in their education and credential management, they are also contributing to heart health initiatives. The Wrap Up Heart Month is more than just a reminder—it’s a time to take action. By making credential management and continuing education seamless, EverCheck, CE Broker and Data Solutions empower healthcare professionals to provide the best possible care for patients. At Propelus, we are proud to equip healthcare professionals with tools to support cardiovascular health. By investing in education and credential management, we are working toward a future where heart disease is no longer the leading cause of death. Let’s work together to power professionals and champion heart health—today and every day. 1. National Center for Health Statistics. Multiple Cause of Death 2018–2022 on CDC WONDER Database. Accessed May 3, 2024. https://wonder.cdc.gov/mcd.html
MedTrainer and Propelus Announce Strategic Partnership to Revolutionize Provider Credentialing
Partnership supercharges provider credentialing software with industry-leading data capabilities LAS VEGAS, Nev., January 14, 2025 – MedTrainer, a leading provider of healthcare workforce compliance solutions, and Propelus, an innovator in dynamic workforce compliance management solutions, today announced a strategic partnership to enhance provider credentialing for healthcare organizations. This collaboration combines MedTrainer’s comprehensive provider credentialing management software with Propelus’s Data Solutions, establishing a new standard for powering provider compliance with on-demand primary source verifications and monitoring. This seamless automation accelerates provider contracting, onboarding, and recredentialing processes to reduce time, ensure ongoing compliance, and maximize revenue. “This partnership immediately supercharges MedTrainer’s cutting-edge credentialing platform with Propelus’s deep and broad data to automate license verifications across all 50 states. The combined capability gives our small and medium-sized customers a streamlined, highly automated, and design-to-fit credentialing solution, which is needed in today’s increasingly complex environment,” – Steve Gallion, CEO of MedTrainer. The partnership between MedTrainer and Propelus delivers several advantages, including: Faster provider onboarding: Automate all types of license verification and credentialing processes, enabling providers to join your organization or network and deliver care more quickly with reduced administrative burden. Improved accuracy: Access comprehensive, reliable, and up-to-date data for primary source verification, minimizing errors and ensuring data integrity. Increased efficiency: Streamline workflows, reduce manual tasks and paperwork, and save valuable time for both providers and administrators. Enhanced compliance: Minimize risk by seamlessly verifying licenses, certifications, and other credential requirements, ensuring adherence to industry standards and regulations. Comprehensive oversight: Access data centrally and leverage robust reporting to maintain information and credentialing status, facilitating better oversight and near real-time decision-making. Maximized revenue: Shortening the initial credentialing timeline reduces lost revenue. On-demand monitoring prevents delays in re-credentialing and the inability to bill for services. “We are honored to collaborate with MedTrainer and our many customers to meaningfully address the growing need for efficient and reliable credentialing solutions in the healthcare industry. Our complementary values-driven approach and commitment to solving healthcare workforce challenges through technology and innovation is our highest priority.” – Julie Walker, CEO of Propelus By combining MedTrainer’s provider credentialing platform with Propelus’s extensive Data Solutions, the partnership sets a new standard for faster, smarter, and more complete provider compliance. Organizations interested in learning more about this enhanced offering can visit https://medtrainer.com/products/credentialing/. About MedTrainer Established in 2013, MedTrainer accelerates and simplifies healthcare workforce compliance. MedTrainer is a natively-built software platform that helps small and medium-sized healthcare organizations save time, reduce risk, and increase revenue through effectively managing workforce compliance. MedTrainer’s all-in-one integrated technology solution delivers credentialing, training, and compliance workflows to manage business critical activities that meet regulatory and industry standards. Backed by Telescope Partners and Vista Equity Partners, MedTrainer is used by over 300,000 healthcare professionals at more than 15,000 healthcare sites across the United States. About Propelus Propelus streamlines workforce compliance management for healthcare. Our innovative technology and strategic partnerships empower millions of professionals and their employers, regulators, and partners to work together, ensuring a better-connected and more efficient healthcare ecosystem. For over 20 years, Propelus has been a trusted leader, providing seamless compliance solutions to millions of professionals. We leverage market-leading technology and essential data to simplify complex operations, reduce risk, and promote a safer, healthier, happier workforce and better communities. Cision PR Web news release
What is a Mandatory Exclusion in the Healthcare Industry?
Protecting patients and employees within the healthcare industry is critical for leaders and healthcare HR professionals. The Office of Inspector General (OIG) must, by law, ensure that individuals and entities who have committed fraud, waste, or abuse can no longer participate in federal healthcare programs, like Medicare or Medicaid. In this blog, we explore what a mandatory exclusion is and the impact it can have on a healthcare organization or individual. We’ll also share some key ways you can work to avoid issues with mandatory exclusion through regular audits and compliance checks. Definition of Mandatory Exclusion Mandatory exclusion is a legal requirement to exclude participation in federal healthcare programs following an individual or entity’s conviction for various criminal offenses. Common reasons for being included on the list include Medicaid or Medicare fraud; fraud related to the State Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP), Tricare, or other state programs; patient abuse or neglect; felony convictions for fraud, theft, or other financial misconduct; and felony convictions involving the unlawful manufacture, distribution, prescription, or dispensing of controlled substances. Those organizations or individuals who find themselves on this list cannot receive payment from federal healthcare programs. Keep in mind that you’ll also find permissive exclusions on the list. These exclusions may result from misdemeanor convictions related to healthcare fraud, fraud in a program other than a healthcare program, misdemeanor convictions for the unlawful manufacture, distribution, prescription, or dispensing of controlled substances, or the suspension, revocation, or surrender of a healthcare license due to issues of competence. The term of exclusion usually sits in the one to three-year range for these types of exclusions, compared to five years to indefinite exclusion with mandatory exclusions. Common Contexts for Mandatory Exclusions Mandatory exclusions impact the individual or organization on the list and can put your organization at risk. This impact is why organizations must check the list monthly to avoid finding themselves in legal trouble or at risk for non-reimbursement due to having someone on the exclusions list perform services on behalf of their organization. Exclusions apply to all employees, whether licensed or not, as well as contractors, vendors, and referring physicians. Many state Medicaid bulletins suggest monthly monitoring of ordering and referring physicians, underscoring the importance of regular checks to ensure compliance. Consequences of Mandatory Exclusion You’ll find immediate and long-term consequences if your organization or an individual working within your organization finds themselves on the list. Mandatory exclusion usually results in a minimum of five years on the list, but this can be indefinite depending on the severity of the crime or issue that got you on the list. Professional licenses, certifications, and employment will likely be revoked, leaving you with little choice but to find another type of employment. Your reputation within the healthcare industry will be damaged because of this exclusion, and you’ll find that financial penalties can be imposed on you during the exclusion process. In order to get yourself off the list can be a very long and costly process, with many individuals and organizations finding it impossible to remove themselves from the list following their addition. For employers, the impacts are equally significant. Federal health care programs will not make payments for any items or services furnished, ordered, or prescribed by an excluded individual or entity. The payment prohibition extends to the excluded individual or entity, anyone employing or contracting with the excluded party, and any hospital or other provider for which the excluded party performs services. While there is a limited exception for certain emergency items or services not provided in a hospital emergency room, the broader implications of exclusion pose significant operational and financial risks for employers. Avoiding Mandatory Exclusions To avoid mandatory exclusion, ensure that you always follow the best practices set by the industry and the regulations surrounding state healthcare programs. Compliance checks and regular audits can help you avoid getting on the list yourself and stop you from engaging with anyone on the mandatory exclusion list. Should you find out that someone you employ or work with is on the list, it’s critical that you immediately take action to stop your involvement with them. The list is updated each month, usually in the second week of the month. It’s important that your team gets into the habit of regularly auditing the list and your employees so that you can take action should someone appear on the list. When hiring a company or working with a new employee, review the list before offering them employment or setting up business contracts. These steps protect your organization and its reputation and will help you avoid ending up on the list yourself for fraud or other illegal activities. Conclusion | About Propelus Understanding and avoiding mandatory exclusions is critical for anyone operating a business within the healthcare industry. Propelus can support your efforts. We recently announced the launch of our Exclusions Monitoring API, which provides monthly monitoring of healthcare exclusions and ensures exclusions intelligence is accessible how, when, and where it is needed for more informed, real-time compliance with ease. Additionally, our EverCheck by Propelus solution delivers the most up-to-date primary source data, including exclusions monitoring, so you can have confidence that your workforce is compliant and in good standing. By remaining in compliance, you’ll work to protect your reputation, avoid potential loss of trust, and ensure you also don’t end up on the list in the future.
Dedicated to Care: Inspiring Stories of Pediatric Care from the Propelus Team
A Tribute to National Children’s Health Month National Children’s Health Month, observed every October, is a wonderful moment to reflect on the incredible impact that pediatric care and children’s hospitals have on our lives. At Propelus, we are deeply committed to protecting vulnerable populations and supporting healthcare professionals. This month, we celebrate the remarkable work being done in pediatric care by sharing personal stories from our team members. Through these narratives, we aim to honor the dedication and compassion of those who work tirelessly to care for our youngest patients, celebrating the resilience and profound impact of pediatric care on our communities. Propelus stories A Mother’s Gratitude: Finding Comfort in My Son’s Surgery at Wolfson Children’s Hospital Bonnie Cobb, Sr. People Operations Manager at Propelus When my son needed surgery as a one-year-old, I felt so blessed to have Nemours Children’s Health and Wolfson Children’s hospital nearby. They are beautiful facilities staffed by endlessly caring professionals that made the whole experience as easy as possible. I’ll always remember the kindness the staff at Wolfson showed my son, and I especially appreciated how the nurse carried him in her arms back to the surgery area. At that time, my son had never been in the care of anyone other than family. Having her carry him like that gave both him and me the comfort we needed in that moment. Easing Stays for a Frequent Flier: My Childhood Journey at CCH Genevieve Terrall, Group Product Manager at Propelus As a frequent flier of Connecticut Children’s Hospital, I got used to the hospital food, the poking and prodding, and the constant stream of new treatments. However, all of the folks that I interacted with from respiratory techs to nurses to my doctors all showed up with the understanding that in order to make me feel more comfortable, they weren’t going to use big words and weird terms to tell me what was happening – they were going to bring me into the conversation to alleviate the fear around being away from home while not feeling well. It means that every time I’d get sick and have to go back, a little less nerve wracking. Being in the hospital as a little kid is scary. However, each member of the team at CCH validated that it was uncomfortable to be away from home and it was okay to feel sad that you haven’t seen a parent or sibling in days, allowing me to feel heard and hopeful that I would get back home. I had nurses who would remember my favorite popsicles and doctors who would talk to me about what I wanted to do when I was home with my little brothers. Most memorably, the respiratory techs would have me sing songs while wearing my vibrating vest. These professionals consistently go the extra mile to help children remain children while also being patients. Their dedication and care is truly unmatched, and I’ll remain thankful for them for the rest of my life. A Mother’s Heartfelt Thanks: Holistic Support for Our Son’s ADHD & Anxiety at Nationwide Children’s Hospital Stephanie Pavol, Director of Growth Marketing at Propelus Nationwide Children’s Hospital has been a great resource in helping my son with his ADHD and anxiety. The diagnosis process was really in-depth and covered a lot, but they made my son feel comfortable throughout the whole process. And they were able to offer a multi-pronged treatment approach from talk therapy to Occupational Therapy. We’re so lucky to have such an amazing organization for children’s health here in Columbus, Ohio. Their in-depth experience and amount of resources made all the difference with my son’s treatment plan. Nationwide Children’s is a leader in behavioral health, as exemplified by their national On Our Sleeves campaign. Their team was extremely knowledgeable and supportive. My son is healthy and thriving academically, behaviorally and in other areas. A Miracle of Care: My Survival Story Thanks to Kansas City’s Research Hospital Kevin McNeall, Senior Sales Executive at Propelus When I was born I had Jaundice, in 1969, which was more significant than it is today. I also had a collapsed lung. My dad told me that you could see my spine when I would inhale. I was not expected to leave the hospital alive and was baptized in the NICU. Because of new technology at the time and the commitment of the doctors and nurses at the hospital, I survived, and they are the reason I get to share my story. I remember my folks talking about the care and support they felt throughout my illness, and they attributed my survival to their [Kansas City’s Research Hospital’s] care. Grateful for Lifesaving Care: Our Journey as New Parents at Vanderbilt Children’s Hospital Karen Griffin, Product Marketing Director at Propelus When my oldest son was 8-months-old, he had meningitis. The person who actually first caught it was a student working at our pediatrician’s office. After getting a second opinion from our pediatrician, we were rushed over to Vanderbilt Children’s Hospital in Nashville where he had a spinal tap procedure to verify the diagnosis. It was a very scary experience for us as we were young parents of our first baby. When the results came back positive, he was admitted to the hospital, and we received the best care. I remember the hospital staff was there when we first got all set up in the hospital room and made sure we knew the latest updates to his condition. And, that wasn’t the last time we were at Vanderbilt. A few years later he was again admitted to Vanderbilt for a surgical procedure. Again, we had a great surgical team, and the post-operation care was phenomenal and [the care team] made sure we knew how he was doing in his recovery. From Crisis to Clarity: How Orlando Health Winnie Palmer Saved My Sister’s Life Jessica Dunbar, Chief of Staff at Propelus My sister was 17-years-old when she experienced her first
Shining a Light on HR Excellence: Celebrating Human Resource Professional Day
At Propelus, we understand that people are the heartbeat of any organization. That is why we celebrate Human Resource Professional Day, honoring the essential role HR professionals play in nurturing and sustaining vibrant workplaces. This day is an opportunity to reflect on the value of HR teams and their impact on driving career growth and professional development. Join us as we explore how to honor HR professionals and why their work is vital to organizational success. What is Human Resource Professional Day? Human Resource Professional Day, observed annually on Sept. 26, recognizes the indispensable contributions of HR professionals. This day not only celebrates their achievements but also highlights the often-overlooked scope of their work. It’s a chance to deepen your understanding of HR’s role and to express appreciation for their unwavering commitment. Why Honor HR Professionals in Healthcare? In the dynamic field of healthcare, celebrating HR professionals is crucial. Here’s why we at Propelus believe it’s important to recognize their efforts: Talent Acquisition and Retention HR professionals in healthcare are key to attracting and retaining exceptional talent. Their dedication ensures that healthcare facilities are equipped with skilled, compassionate professionals who provide outstanding patient care. While they may not interact directly with patients, their work is foundational to the effective operation of your organization. Employee Well-being HR teams are champions of employee well-being, driving initiatives that promote wellness, mental health, and work-life balance. In the high-pressure environment of healthcare, their efforts are vital for maintaining morale and preventing burnout. By supporting these initiatives, you contribute to a more balanced and engaged workforce. Training and Development Continuous learning and development are central to healthcare excellence. HR professionals facilitate programs that keep staff up-to-date with the latest healthcare practices and technologies. This ongoing education not only boosts employee confidence but also enhances the quality of patient care. Compliance and Ethics Navigating complex regulatory requirements and ethical standards is a critical function of HR teams. By managing these aspects, HR professionals allow other leaders to focus on delivering exceptional patient care. Compliance and ethics requirements within your business protect the organization and its employees from legal issues and help maintain a culture of integrity. Crisis Management During challenging times, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, HR professionals have been instrumental in managing workforce dynamics and implementing safety protocols. Their support during crises is a testament to their resilience and commitment. If your team members have a personal challenge, they can always turn to your HR team for extra support and advice. Cultural and Organizational Leadership HR professionals shape the culture of healthcare organizations, fostering an environment of inclusion, collaboration, and respect. Their role in building a supportive and empathetic workplace is crucial for organizational success. By celebrating HR colleagues on Human Resource Professional Day, you acknowledge their role in maintaining a high standard of care and employee support. Ideas to Honor Healthcare HR Professionals Inspired to celebrate Human Resource Professional Day? Here are some thoughtful ways to recognize and appreciate your HR team: Thank You Notes from Staff: Encourage colleagues to write personal notes or create thank you cards for HR colleagues, showcasing their appreciation for the team’s dedication. Lunch or Dinner with Leadership: Organize a special meal around Sept. 26, offering senior leaders the chance to express their gratitude and celebrate HR professionals. Gift Packages: Delight your HR team with personalized gift packages that reflect their interests, demonstrating your appreciation for their hard work. Customized HR Appreciation Video: Create a video featuring testimonials from employees and leaders, highlighting the positive impact of your HR team. Display the video prominently to raise awareness of their contributions. Final Thoughts Human Resource Professional Day is the perfect opportunity to recognize and celebrate your HR team’s hard work to ensure a safer, healthier, and more compliant workforce. Propelus is dedicated to helping HR professionals equip their workforce with the resources they need to perform at the highest level. Through our industry-leading solutions—EverCheck, Immuware, and CE Broker—we’re powering professionals with the tools they need to achieve professional compliance and ultimately, provide safer healthcare with better outcomes. This Human Resource Professional Day, we thank the HR professionals in healthcare who help their organizations provide the best care possible.
