• Healthcare

Insights from Front-line Workers: Questions for Hospital Executives

February 15, 2023

In the healthcare industry, front-line workers play a vital role in ensuring the well-being of patients. Hospital executives are responsible for making critical decisions that affect the daily operations of the healthcare facility. However, there is often a disconnect between the executives and the front-line workers, leading to patient care issues and employee satisfaction.

A recent article published in Becker’s Hospital Review identified three questions that front-line workers wish hospital executives would ask them. These questions can help bridge the gap between executives and workers to promote a more collaborative work environment.

The first question is, “What can we do to make your job easier?” Front-line workers face many challenges, from staffing shortages to the physical demands of their job. By asking this question, hospital executives can gain insight into the specific challenges that workers face and work to address them. This can improve employee satisfaction and, ultimately, better patient care.

The second question is, “What can we do to make your work more meaningful?” Healthcare workers often enter the industry with a passion for helping others. However, the daily grind of the job can make it easy to lose sight of that passion. Hospital executives can help rekindle that passion by asking workers what they find most rewarding about their careers and working to create more opportunities for them to experience those rewarding moments.

The third question is, “What are your ideas for improving patient care?” Front-line workers are in the trenches daily and have a unique perspective on what works and what doesn’t in patient care. By asking for their input, hospital executives can gain valuable insight into how to improve patient outcomes. This can lead to better patient satisfaction and an enhanced reputation for the healthcare facility.

In conclusion, hospital executives should prioritize building relationships with front-line workers by asking them these critical questions. By doing so, they can gain valuable insights into the daily challenges of workers and work to address them, create more meaningful work experiences, and ultimately improve patient care outcomes.