Latest hospital employee survey shows increasing job satisfaction

A satisfied, engaged and loyal workforce that is confident in its leadership creates a work environment leading to better overall performance. That’s what consultant Jeff Jamison said about the staff at North Big Horn Hospital in his presentation to its board of trustees.

Jamison presented the results of the latest hospital employee satisfaction survey at the hospital district’s board of trustees meeting held on June 17. As in previous surveys, the results were for the most part positive and trending toward increased satisfaction in most areas queried.

The study, conducted by Success Profiles, compared the perceived work environment at NBHH to industry norms, ranking it 83.9 percent among similar hospitals across the nation. Once again, the staff at NBHH demonstrated above average engagement, job satisfaction and a willingness to recommend the hospital to others. In the survey, employees expressed confidence in the hospital’s leadership team, a belief that employees are treated fairly and belief that the work processes in place allow them to perform their work effectively.

Hospital CEO Eric Connell noted that increased engagement, satisfaction and loyalty is a specific goal set every year. Jamison emphasized the importance of these factors to the overall organization. Since 2022, the survey has shown positive progress in this specific area from 76.2 percent in 2022 to 80.6 percent in 2024 to 82.7 percent in 2025. Other areas that showed positive growth included the belief by employees that they have opportunities for professional growth within the organization. Another area of positive results included the belief that employees are part of the change process within their department and that their voice is heard. The employees surveyed indicated they believed the organization emphasizes delivery of top-notch care to its patients and understands patient needs.

In other matters, the trustees approved the implementation of a quality improvement plan. The goals of the plan included delivery of the highest possible level of safe patient care and service, identification of opportunities to drive a higher level of quality, strong policies and procedures and best practices to ensure a skilled and competent workforce. It also set an explicit goal for the organization to be ranked consistently as one of the top 20 critical access hospitals in the nation.

Connell also announced the renewal of licensure for both the hospital and the care center. The hospital is licensed for up to 15 beds. New Horizons Care Center is licensed for up to 85 beds.

It was noted in the foundation/marketing report that the recently held Kids Health and Safety Fair had a turnout of around 720 attendees. Board chairman Dave Winterholler said he heard the event was “amazing” and had a great turnout.

Director of Nursing Michael Henley reported 36 hospital admissions in the month of May, compared to 37 in April and 27 in March. He also reported 137 infusions performed, along with 75 operating room procedures and 22 pain clinic procedures. Eleven robotic surgeries were performed. He also noted in his report that the hospital is working with the Big Horn County Prevention Coalition to bring back the VOS (visual observation specialist) program to the hospital. The program makes it possible for individuals considered suicidal to spend time in the hospital, instead of a jail setting, while mental health services are found to help them.

Connell announced a new program that is currently under development called “Brain Boot Camp” that will be offered to the public in the near future. The program is designed to empower participants with activities and resources to prevent or slow cognitive decline through diet, exercise and brain training and will include presentations by experts in these areas.

“Our goal is to equip individuals with tools for optimal brain health, promoting maximum independence and quality of life as they age in place,” Connell said. “Additionally, we will provide contact information for evaluations and treatment options for those showing dementia symptoms or supporting affected loved ones.”