Step Behind the Scenes
The Employee Virtual Town Halls are hosted in the Director's Office.
As essential as it is to keep the Veterans we serve aware and updated of every step taken, we must also do the same for our team members.
Initiatives have been taken to best advise, care and inform all employees. It is imperative for our healthcare family to not only have the proper Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), but to also remain healthy and well to best serve our patients during these current times. Step behind the scenes to learn about some of the actions taken by the Orlando VA Healthcare System [OVAHCS] —
Virtual Employee Town Halls
An influx of information has flooded across many organizations nationwide. To ensure all of our employees feel confident and aware, Leadership and Infectious Disease Control and Mental Health Subject Matter Experts have hosted Virtual Employee Town Halls. The group gathers 6 feet apart and masked to deliver COVID-19 news and helpful employee tips. The transparent communication has allowed for on-the-spot answers to questions, virtual meditation sessions [As pictured], factual information from medical professionals, and the release of information to know what is to come next. Different from typical business conference calls, Timothy Cooke, OVAHCS Director/CEO, kicks off each Town Hall with a special quote and an inspirational song to remind the team that together we will overcome this pandemic. This personal touch, although concealed behind masks, brings much needed smiles and laughter across the organization.
“One thing everyone would agree can improve in any organization is Communication. I decided Virtual Employee Town Halls was worth a try to provide information and direct, candid team feedback [COVID-19 or otherwise]. It turned out to be a hit! But we did not stop there, to commit to clear communication, an email to all of our employees, known as News You Can Use, is disseminated to capture the hot topics. Whether it is Tranquil Tuesday [Meditation] or advice to cope with stress, we have made the Town Halls our own and enjoyable.” — Timothy Cooke, Director/CEO
Meet Mr. Age - The man who sets the clean standards.
Environmental Care Standards
As per usual, from top to bottom, every inch of our facilities must always remain spotlessly clean. This standard of polish has reached a new height due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The safety of our Veterans and employees is our top priority. With safety comes pristine cleanliness, training and equipment. The daily Environmental Management Service (EMS) huddles complemented with specific guidance and instruction have guaranteed the safety of all who walk through our doors.
“We are fully equipped to do our job! We complete training that includes step-by-step action and we proudly take ownership of our duties. There is nothing I won’t ask of my team without showing them the specific way to do it.” —Michael Age, Housekeeping Supervisor
Thank you to our healthcare heroes!
Wellness Retreat
Tirelessly on their feet, our healthcare family has continued to provide around the clock care and comfort to our Veterans. As a healthcare organization, we value our employees and urge each one to be mentally and physically well. With many on-call, the Voluntary Service team and Whole Health Champion Ashley Rush brought a specialized break room to employees at the Orlando VA Medical Center. The sanctuary is an escape to allow for our frontline heroes to simply have a place to breathe, clear their minds and enjoy a hot cup of coffee. It is crucial for our team to remain healthy in order to strive and conquer whatever the pandemic may bring.
“The Employee Relaxation Room offers a special, quiet place for staff to take a deep breath, reflect, and reduce anxiety. It is very gratifying and exciting to see the smiles on their faces, and to know we have a part in giving them a way to engage in Whole Health self-care. Our team members in every service are the best and we so appreciate all of their hard work, long hours, and commitment to the excellent care for our Veterans.” — Adelina Sowell, Cheif of Voluntary Service
To best care for our Veterans, we must also care for our team too. Always remember, we are in this together!
