We currently have an employee development plan in place. We have our online resource center for all employees called the “learning hub”. On the learning hub, we post learning activities, articles and instructional videos and courses relevant to different jobs within our health authority. In home support, we believe in ongoing training and support for our staff. Staff can access the learning hub from their home and even their homes.
Each year we offer mandatory and optional educational programs for staff free of charge. Some of the courses are mandatory due to accreditation and licensing. The other education we provide is voluntary and cover a range of topics from leadership to mental health awareness. When employees have free access to better themselves through education, they almost always will. Employees can access all classes through the online hub or in a classroom setting.
We have a committee that nominates great acts of service, and there is always a new person featured on the company website. Similar to an employee of the month program, but more focused on what they have done to help others in their field.
Another way technology helps develop our employees is through our department-wide app. We use an app where the home support workers can access their schedule, view patient information and do their charting. Everything they do in the app is written documentation that our entire department has access to. The app has an employee specific password and two-step verification process. The employees can only access the app through company-owned phones.
It is not uncommon for our employees to get burnt out in the field. One of our initiatives to mitigate caregiver burnout is through our Employee Assistance program. The EAP program is for our employees are feeling overwhelmed or stressed this program provides a confidential counseling and support service.
Regarding building organizational culture and citizenship behavior, we work tirelessly on these efforts. We make sure to stop the negative response in it’s in tracks. We do not tolerate gossip, putting people down bullying or derogatory language. If someone expresses themselves in this fashion, we are quick to stop it in its tracks. We have made it one of our top priorities having a respectful workplace. Holding staff accountable is key in creating a respectful workplace.
Technology has changed our industry in the way we educate our staff and our communication and exchange of knowledge.