100 Best Places to Work – 2010

 

Sponsored by:

Becker's ASC Review/Becker's Hospital Review has announced its list of the "100 Best Places to Work in Healthcare." The 2010 list was developed through nominations and research, and the following organizations were selected for their demonstrated excellence in providing a work environment that promotes teamwork, professional development and quality patient care.

For a variety of reasons, the editors ultimately determined to exclude certain categories of companies from the list and thus didn't include any companies from the following categories: valuation firms, billing and collections companies and minority ownership ASC companies. Clearly certain companies in these areas were also worthy of inclusion. All organizations that are placed on the list undergo a substantial review with other peers and through our own research. Companies do not pay and cannot pay to be selected as a best place to work. Note: Companies are listed alphabetically by name.

Access MediQuip (Lake Mary, Fla., and Houston)
Type of facility: Healthcare company
What makes it a Best Place to Work: Access MediQuip provides outsourced implantable device management solutions throughout the healthcare industry and currently has partnership agreements with 175 medical device manufacturers and most of the country's largest insurance providers. The company employs 200 staff members at its corporate locations in Florida and Texas. The company provides a high-tech, high-energy business-casual atmosphere for its employees, including flexible hours.  It also supports professional development among its employees through continuous education and improvement certifications. Employees are offered a wide array of benefits such as competitive pay, employer-matched 401(k), flexible hours, vacation time, health and dental benefits, flexible spending accounts and wellness programs.

Access Sports Medicine & Orthopaedics/Northeast Surgical Care (Exeter/Newington, N.H.)
Type of facility: Physician practice/ambulatory surgery center
What makes it a Best Place to Work: Access Sports Medicine & Orthopaedics and Northeast Surgical Care provides its 100 employees with flexible solutions to meet the needs of staff members in today's work environment, including three- or four-day work weeks and three different health plans to accommodate staff members in different stages of life. Access Sports Medicine also provides a 401(k) that requires no employee matching; eligible employees receive a retirement contribution on their behalf without having to contribute part of their regular salary. The company also provides an on-site, full-time IT department to increase efficiency and decrease frustration if something goes wrong. Access Sports Medicine and Northeast Surgical Care also recognizes employees with holiday parties and an annual service recognition dinner for employees that have been with the center for a certain number of years.

Advocate Health Care (Oak Brook, Ill.)
Type of facility: Hospital/health system
What makes it a Best Place to Work: Advocate Health Care has over 200 sites of care in the Chicagoland area — including hospitals, children's hospitals and clinics — and an employee base of over 28,000. The non-profit, faith-based health system is the largest healthcare provider in Illinois and is one of the top 10 employers in the Chicago area. Many Advocate hospitals have received Magnet distinction for nursing from ANCC, and Thompson Reuters named two of the system's hospitals to its Top 100 Hospitals list. Because of its reach, Advocate has fostered a culture of community outreach and charity. In 2008, Advocate employees raised nearly $90.7 million through its charity campaign. Advocate routinely surveys its employees to gauge their opinion and to identify areas of improvement. The system also holds an annual Associate Appreciation Week to thank its employees for their hard work. In 2009, Advocate was named one of the best places to work in Illinois by the Business Ledger. Employee benefits focus on career, life and health and include healthcare coverage, education assistance, life insurance and paid time off.

Alabama Digestive Health Endoscopy Center (Birmingham, Ala.)
Type of facility: Ambulatory surgery center
What makes it a Best Place to Work: Alabama Digestive Health Endoscopy Center is a single-specialty ASC specializing in gastroenterology. A joint venture started by a group of local physicians, Practice Partners in Healthcare and Tenet Healthcare Corp., it is accredited by the AAAHC and opened in Oct. 2007.  All employees received an annual holiday bonus each of the past two years, and employees have medical and life insurance, dental and vision plans, flexible and dependent care accounts, 401(k) plans and free parking.  Jackie Harrison, RN, vice president of operations for Practice Partners in Healthcare, says she meets frequently with employees to discuss any concerns. "We have a very verbal group of employees who know my door is never closed," she says. Ms. Harrison also says the physicians' dedication to the center has been unflagging. They originally had tried to build a freestanding ASC separate from the hospital campus that failed due to construction problems. "The physicians never gave up," she says. "I have been in healthcare as a nurse, manager and now administrator of this facility as well as vice president of operations for PPH for over 35 years. The dedication to make this facility work was absolutely incredible."

Alexian Brothers Hospital Network (Arlington Heights, Ill.)
Type of facility: Hospital/health system
What makes it a Best Place to Work: Alexian Brothers Hospital Network is a five-hospital network and is part of the Alexian Brothers Health System. Alexian Brothers has worked hard to create an engaged employee workplace, earning the hospital system a 2009 Great Workplace Award from Gallup. Employee enthusiasm at Alexian Brothers has been paying off in many ways. In 2009, Alexian Brothers Medical Center, a 387-bed hospital in Elk Grove Village, Ill., won the Beacon Award from the American Association of Critical Care Nurses and the Blue Star Hospital Perfect Award, and was designated a Bariatric Center of Excellence. Alexian Brothers offers a competitive benefits package to its employees that includes paid time off, life insurance, healthcare coverage, long- and short-term disability, child care, employee assistance and educational opportunities.

Ambulatory Surgical Center of Stevens Point (Stevens Point, Wis.)
Type of facility: Ambulatory surgery center
What makes it a Best Place to Work: The ASC of Stevens point is a multi-specialty ASC consisting of two operating rooms where surgeons perform 1,400 procedures annually. ASC of Stevens Point opened in 2006, and, to date, not a single member of the ASC's original staff has left, according to Becky Ziegler-Otis, administrator. One reason for the remarkably low turnover is the staff's relationship with the physician owners. "It truly is about the relationship between the owners and the staff. There is a level of camaraderie, and we truly operate as a team," says Ms. Ziegler-Otis. The physicians recognize the value of the staff, frequently discussing patient care and operations with them. Employees also receive a recognition lunch each month, and the center celebrates notable accomplishments, including rewarding employees when the center meets goals, such as a reaching a certain case volume.

Anesthesia Staffing Consultants (Bingham Falls, Mich.)
Type of company: Healthcare company
What makes it a Best Place to Work: Anesthesia Staffing Consultants — which provides turnkey outsourcing solutions including CRNA staffing, billing and consulting to surgery centers and hospitals in the "thumb" and Mid-Michigan areas of Michigan — is a small company that has built confidence and a sense of responsibility in its 25 employees through work projects and community outreach. Staff members collaborate on projects and keep an open line of communication with one another, which promotes growth within the company. Anesthesia Staffing Consultants is involved with multiple charity events and will host its seventh annual Al Jarvis Memorial Golf Outing to benefit an annual scholarship for Michigan nurse anesthesia students through the Michigan Association of Nurse Anesthetists' scholarship fund. The company is also forming a partnership with Lighthouse PATH of Oakland County, which provides homeless women and children with educational and job development opportunities.

Arkansas Children's Hospital (Little Rock)
Type of facility: Hospital/health system
What makes it a Best Place to Work: ACH is Arkansas' only pediatric medical center and is located on a campus that spans 29 city blocks and includes 316 beds. ACH employs more than 4,200 employees, including 500 physicians. The private, non-profit healthcare facility boasts an internationally renowned reputation for medical breakthroughs and intensive treatments, unique surgical procedures and forward-thinking medical research and is the pediatric arm of the University of Arkansas Medical School. U.S. News & World Report has recognized the hospital as one of the best pediatric hospitals in the country. ACH also sponsors a one-week summer camp for children with disabilities or critical illnesses, and employees who volunteer at the camp receive one week of vacation for their time. The dedication of ACH's team led Fortune magazine to recognize the hospital for the third year in a row as one of the best places to work in America. ACH strives to achieve employee satisfaction with benefits including health, dental and life insurance; supplemental medical insurance; paid short- and long-term disability; tuition reimbursement; a wellness program with a fitness center; a 403(b) retirement savings plan with available match; an earned time account with accrual; available on-campus day care; an employee assistance program; an employee recognition program; professional development opportunities; and a credit union.

Atlantic Health (Morristown, N.J.)
Type of facility: Hospital/health system
What makes it a Best Place to Work: Atlantic Health is one of the largest non-profit health care systems in New Jersey and includes Overlook Hospital in Summit and Morristown Memorial Hospital. The two hospitals have a combined total of 1,197 licensed beds and more than 2,500 affiliated physicians providing a wide array of healthcare services to the five million residents of 11 northern and central New Jersey counties. The company prides itself on being at the forefront of hospital care and modern technology. These advancements have helped Atlantic Health create a culture of success and caring among its 7,114 employees. Atlantic Health has received recognition for its workplace environment and was named as one of the best places to work in New Jersey by NJBiz magazine. It also topped the healthcare list as one of the best employers for workers over 50 by AARP. Voluntary turnover at the company is 2 percent, and the company supports a culture of career development and continuous learning. Benefits for employees include healthcare coverage, paid time-off, tuition reimbursement, working parent support, life insurance, ongoing mentorship programs and on-site child care.

B. Braun Medical (Bethlehem, Pa.)
Type of company: Healthcare company
What makes it a Best Place to Work: In addition to an employer-matched 401(k) plan and a pension plan, employees can receive up to $100 annually for joining a gym, as well as a $500 scholarship for dependent children who have completed their freshman year of college. College and graduate-course reimbursement are available for employees, as are in-house training opportunities. The training paid off last year when employees were able to use their recently acquired CPR skills to successfully resuscitate a coworker who had suffered heart failure. B. Braun's "sharing expertise" philosophy speaks to the relationships employees build with one another, and an employee-led "Green Team" helps set the company's environmental priorities. With these programs, it is no surprise that the average tenure for its 4,310 employees is more than 10 years.

Banner Health (Phoenix)
Type of facility: Hospital/health system
What makes it a Best Place to Work: Banner Health boasts a workforce of 35,000 diverse employees from all backgrounds and regions. The health system has earned recognition for the system from U.S. News & World Report, Thomson Reuters and Nursing Professional magazine. Banner Health operates 22 hospitals and healthcare facilities in Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Nebraska, Nevada and Wyoming. The health system offers current and future employees a host of career opportunities and offers benefits including medical coverage, a 401(k) plan, paid time-off, corporate discounts and tuition assistance. "I'm extremely proud of the quality workplace that Banner employees have worked so hard to create," says Peter S. Fine, president and CEO of Banner Health.

Baptist Easley Hospital (Easley, S.C.)
Type of facility: Hospital/health system
What makes it a Best Place to Work: Baptist Easley, a joint venture between Greenville Hospital System and Palmetto Health, has created an award-winning culture of care and compassion, focused on service excellence, through a highly skilled medical staff and a team management structure that places more decision-making and authority on mid-level directors who are connected with the challenges faced by department staff. The hospital employs 587 full-time staff members. Press Ganey has measured employee satisfaction at the hospital above the 95^th percentile for three consecutive years. Baptist Easley promotes advancement within the system through a variety of programs designed to educate employees to become leaders as well as an educational series to ensure that managers have the right tools to be successful leaders.

Baptist Health South Florida (Coral Gables, Fla.)
Type of facility: Hospital/health system
What makes it a Best Place to Work: Baptist Health South Florida is comprised of six hospitals and has created a culture in line with the mission of the health system. Through this dedication, Baptist Health has been recognized by Fortune and Gallup for its employee satisfaction. The faith-based, non-profit health organization devotes itself to quality patient care, and employees strive to provide care to all patients no matter their ability to pay. President and CEO Brian E. Keeley says the 13,000 employees at the system truly embody the system's mission. "It's because of their daily commitment to and belief in our faith-based mission that we continue to be a leader in providing quality healthcare to the people of South Florida," he says. Baptist Health offers its employees benefits including healthcare coverage, life insurance, paid time off and an integrated employee work-life balance program.

Barnes-Jewish Hospital (St. Louis)
Type of organization: Hospital/health system
What makes it a Best Place to Work: Part of the BJC HealthCare system, Barnes-Jewish Hospital, the affiliated teaching hospital for Washington University School of Medicine, is one of the largest employers in St. Louis. Barnes-Jewish was the first adult hospital in Missouri to receive Magnet designation for nursing, has been listed on the U.S. News & World Report honor roll of America's Best Hospitals for 16 consecutive years and received a Consumer Choice designation from the National Research Corp. In addition to a strong core benefits package with an employer-paid defined benefit pension plan and an employer-matched 401(k)/403(b) plan, the hospital offers on-site affordable child care centers, adult day care programs for dependent adults, adoption assistance and employee crisis relief. Flexible scheduling is also available to employees hoping to achieve better balance between time spent at work and at home. Employees are honored in various ways through awards and incentives, including gifts for milestone anniversaries and a special banquet for employees who attain milestone service anniversaries.

BayCare Clinic (Green Bay, Wis.)
Type of facility: Physician practice
What makes it a Best Place to Work: When faced with rising costs for providing employee healthcare benefits, BayCare Clinic, Northwest Wisconsin's largest specialty clinic, developed a plan to keep benefits while creating a healthier staff and reducing costs for healthcare coverage. The wellness initiative, the Healthy Lifestyles Premium Discount Program, provides monetary rewards for employees in areas that are sources of controllable healthcare costs, such as tobacco use, obesity and fitness. Employees are rewarded as they work toward improving or maintaining body composition, fitness and lifestyle parameters that also lead to lower healthcare costs. Employees enjoy a healthier work place and lower costs, and BayCare has seen results in reduced absenteeism, higher productivity and overall improvement in well-being, which has helped put it on the path to achieving its goal of "most fit company in Brown County." The Healthy Lifestyles Premium Discount Program is just one way leaders at BayCare have shown their creativity and innovation. The clinic's physician-owners are committed not only to superior patient care, but also to fostering a positive work environment for its 488 staff members.

Baylor Medical Center at Frisco (Frisco, Texas)
Type of facility: Hospital/health system
What makes it a Best Place to Work: Baylor Medical Center at Frisco, founded in Sept. 2002, is a joint venture partnership between a group of physician investors, United Surgical Partners International and Baylor Health Care System. It is a community hospital that provides surgery, obstetrics, newborn and neonatal intensive care, post-surgical care, emergency and urgent care and imaging services. BMCF also employs 406 staff members BMCF has received recognition from HealthStream Research, in 2006 winning an excellence award for employee satisfaction and receiving employee overall satisfaction ratings of 95 percent or greater for the last six years in a row. The hospital was also named among the best companies to work for in Texas in 2007 by Texas Monthly magazine. Full-time employees with at least one year's service are eligible for an educational assistance benefit of up to 50 percent of tuition, and BMCF helps the employees fit school into their schedule. In addition, employees are encouraged to voice concerns through a well-promoted open door policy and an anonymous "question box." Questions placed in the box are answered at the next general staff meeting.

Beaumont Hospitals (Royal Oak, Mich.)
Type of organization: Hospital/health system
What makes it a Best Place to Work: A major teaching facility and regional healthcare provider, Beaumont has seen all of its hospitals listed on U.S. News & World Report's 2009 list of "America's Best Hospitals." Its hospitals in Royal Oak and Troy have achieved the coveted Magnet status for nursing excellence.  Among its numerous other awards and rankings are a place on Nursing Professional magazine's top 100 hospitals for nurses list in 2009, and several recent appearances on AARP's "Best Employers for Workers 50 and Over" list. It was recognized in the biennial Crain's Detroit Business' Best Places to Work in 1999 and 2001, and was one of Metropolitan Detroit's "Best and Brightest Companies to Work for" in 2008. The system offers on-site childcare, financial assistance for in-vitro fertilization and adoption, tuition reimbursement, and 30 scholarships per year of $1,000 for children of employees. It also recognizes employees through various recognition programs, a holiday dinner, rewards for referring friends for employment and a "Saluting the Stars" program that honors employees and volunteers who exhibit exemplary customer service behavior.

Borland-Groover Clinic (Jacksonville, Fla.)
Type of company: Physician practice
What makes it a Best Place to Work: The Clinic provides gastroenterology care to patients in Jacksonville, North Florida and Southeast Georgia, with the 55 physicians in its network providing care at eight clinics and seven hospitals in the region. The clinic opened in 1995 and is led by President and CEO Jack Groover. The clinic's 332 staff members are dedicated to providing high-quality patient care, and Borland-Groover recognizes their commitment to quality through a number of programs. Employees who have been with the system for 15, 20 or 25 years can select a gift from a catalog that includes a number of high-end products. Additionally, Borland-Groover offers standard benefits, tuition reimbursement and a profit-sharing plan. "I have been with the company for over 15 years and have had the opportunity to see the growth of the company," says Cynthia Hall, RN, administrator for Borland-Groover's Jacksonville Center for Endoscopy. "Along with that growth I have seen management always consider their employees when it comes to all decision making."

Brigham and Women's Hospital (Boston)
Type of facility: Hospital/health system
What makes it a Best Place to Work: "The Brigham" is a 777-bed teaching affiliate of Harvard Medical School and is part of Partners HealthCare, a 10-hospital network in Massachusetts. The hospital ranked tenth on U.S. News & World Report's list of America's Best Hospitals in 2009 and has been on the U.S. News honor roll of the top 21 hospitals for 11 consecutive years. It was also cited by Thomson Reuters and the Leapfrog Group and was recognized by the University HealthSystem Consortium as one of five top-performing academic medical centers in the country in a quality and safety benchmarking study. In 2009, The Scientist placed Brigham and Women's Hospital within its Best Places to Work: Top 40 U.S. Academic Institutions, citing its favorable management and policies and positive work environment. Brigham and Women's offers a flexible benefit program that includes paid time off. Employees can also accrue five days per year into an extended sick leave bank should they become ill and need to be away for more than five days. The hospital contributes 100 percent toward a pension in a cash balance retirement plan, and employees are vested after three years of employment. It also offers dependent care and healthcare spending accounts and retiree medical savings accounts to help employees save and pay for health benefits during retirement. In addition to subsidized fitness center memberships, the hospital also offers access to back-up childcare for children ages 8-12 years. California Pacific Medical Center (San Francisco)
Type of facility: Hospital/health system
What makes it a Best Place to Work: California Pacific, a Sutter Health affiliate, is a leading tertiary academic medical center providing acute, post-acute and outpatient hospital care and includes a staff of nearly 7,000. The hospital has received numerous accolades for its patient care, including recognition as a Leapfrog Top Hospital for four consecutive years. U.S. News & World Report also named California Pacific's gastrointestinal disorders program as one of the best in the country. To achieve such a reputation, the hospital has established itself as a great workplace and boasts a low turnover rate of 6.4 percent among nurses, well below California's average of 14.8 percent. A value-based culture has helped California Pacific continue to provide excellent patient care, and the hospital prides itself on being on the cutting edge of technology, with a host of medical firsts including the first capsule endoscopy in the Bay Area and the first successful reattachment of a human tongue. The Employer Research Institute and the San Francisco Business Times have both named California Pacific as one of the best places to work in recent years.

Cedars-Sinai Medical Center (Los Angeles)
Type of facility: Hospital/health system
What makes it a Best Place to Work: Cedars-Sinai ranked in 11 specialties in U.S. News & World Report's list of America's Best Hospitals in 2009. The 850-bed hospital also has been listed as the "Most Preferred Hospital for All Health Needs" by Los Angeles residents for more than 20 years, according to the Consumer Choice survey. It was recognized for clinical excellence on HealthGrades' list of 50 best hospitals and distinguished hospitals in 2009. Cedars-Sinai is one of few employers in the U.S. to offer its employees a retirement choice between an account-based defined contribution plan and a traditional defined benefit pension plan. For both options, the hospital makes 100 percent of the contribution to the employee's plan. In addition, employees are able to save for retirement through a tax-deferred 403(b) plan, for which Cedars-Sinai matches 50 percent of an employee's contribution up to 6 percent of pay. Its healthcare benefits are progressive as well. In addition to offering domestic partner benefits, the hospital has structured its health benefit program to subsidize more of the cost for employees who earn less, and when employees use Cedars-Sinai for their medical needs, hospitalization and emergency room charges are covered in full.

Centennial Surgery Center (Voorhees, N.J.)
Type of facility: Ambulatory surgery center
What makes it a Best Place to Work: Centennial Surgery Center, a multi-specialty ASC, has ranked in the 99th percentile of healthcare facilities for patient satisfaction by HealthStream Research for six years running and recently earned the highest level of accreditation by the AAAHC. This high patient satisfaction level comes from a dedicated team of employees who enjoy working at the ASC. Centennial provides competitive salaries and bonuses as well as an overall terrific work environment, according to Margaret Atkinson, BS, CPC, RMC, business manager. The ASC hosts an annual employee appreciation week where ASC owners provide breakfast or lunch to the employees every day of the week in addition to other displays of appreciation. Employees with five- and 10-year anniversaries with the company attend an employee appreciation dinner where they are recognized for their service and dedication. The management team also often asks for employee input and ideas, which allows all employees to play a critical role in implementation of new policies, procedures and improvement, according to Ms. Atkinson. "Centennial truly cares not only about their patients, but for their employees as well," she says. "It's the commitment to the quality care of our patients, guests, visitors and employees," says James Ramsey, facility director at Centennial. "There is no second-guessing, and there is no greater concern from the managing bodies. Quality care is our greatest focus and strongest asset. It is for that accomplishment that I applaud the staff, the doctors, the vendors and all the ancillary people that make such an organization operate."

The Center for Outpatient Medicine (Bloomington, Ill.)
Type of facility: Ambulatory surgery center
What makes it a Best Place to Work: TCOM opened in 1991 as an orthopedic surgery center but has since expanded to include nine additional surgical specialties and a three-bed post-surgical recovery care center. The center's 60 employees can receive quarterly bonuses based on patient satisfaction reports. To increase this opportunity, TCOM embraces communication between staff and administration, which administrators believe aid with continuity of care for its patients. This effort includes an "open door" policy among administration and monthly staff meetings. Sarah Gardner, TCOM's business director says, "TCOM's a great place to work because we focus on our employees. The organization listens to our employees, making TCOM an enjoyable place to work which also allows friendships to be built. I think that we may be unique because our physician owners do not micromanage the surgery center. This allows the leadership to really focus on employees along with overall patient care." TCOM offers a variety of employee benefits, including paying 95 percent of eligible employees' and 80 percent of employee dependents' healthcare premiums. The center also offers life insurance, flex time, paid time off and employee recognition programs including holiday parties and service bonuses. TCOM also budgets for employees to attend meetings and seminars throughout the year so that they can stay up to date on their areas of expertise.

Central Park Surgery Center (Arlington, Texas)
Type of facility: Ambulatory surgery center
What makes it a Best Place to Work: Central Park Surgery Center is an independent, physician-owned ASC that offers a range of surgical services in specialties including ENT, podiatry and ophthalmic plastic surgery. Employees of Central Park say, "To be a member of a great surgery center takes outstanding leadership and in this regard, we take a backseat to no organization." The physicians, CEO, nurse manager and business office manger at Central Park strive to provide staff with the resources and clinical skill necessary to achieve their goals. Through the dedication of the physician partners and staff members, Central Park aims to provide the highest quality medical care in a setting that is affordable and convenient for patients. Central Park Surgery Center staff members receive medical coverage, long-term disability, paid time-off, life insurance, identity theft protection assistance, vision coverage and a 401(k) plan. Staff members are also kept up-to-date with an extensive in-house training program and the option of seeking education outside of the center. Culture, however, is the essential piece to Central Park's puzzle, and employees say, "Perhaps the best thing about working at Central Park Surgery Center is that the culture and commitment to providing the best possible care in a warm and friendly environment permeates throughout all levels of the organization."

CHG Healthcare Services (Salt Lake City)
Type of company: Healthcare company
What makes it a Best Place to Work: One of the nation's largest and oldest healthcare staffing firms, CHG offers temporary and permanent placements of physicians, nurses and allied health professionals to hospitals and other healthcare organizations. Ranked as the 26th best company to work for by Fortune, CHG has 1,100 employees in seven states. The company recently launched "CHG Pulse," an interactive Web site that uses photos, video and employee spotlights to highlight its relaxed and supportive corporate culture. The company's benefits include two medical plans, coverage for dependents including domestic partners, a 401(k) plan with a company match, and up to $3,000 a year in tuition reimbursement, according to a press release.

Children's Healthcare of Atlanta
Type of facility: Hospital/health system
What makes it a Best Place to Work: This non-profit, pediatric healthcare system consists of three hospitals and a variety of related pediatric services. Children's has been recognized nationally as a model for pediatric care. Working Mother magazine, Fortune magazine and the Atlanta Business Chronicle have all recognized Children's as a premier employer both in Georgia and nationwide. Employees make a commitment to the hospital's core beliefs when hired, and the company supports them by helping employees to maintain work-life balance, embracing learning, fostering leadership and maintaining a culture of mutual respect. Children's provides employees with benefits including healthcare coverage, time-off benefits, retirement plans, child care, discount buying clubs and college savings plans. Employee award and recognition programs include Hope and Will awards, given by fellow employees to those who exemplify Children's values, service awards and the DAISY awards for excellence in nursing. Children's also provides a host of on-site celebrations including an employee arts and crafts fair, department celebrations and holiday activities.

Children's Memorial Hospital (Chicago)
Type of facility: Hospital/health system
What makes it a Best Place to Work: Illinois' only freestanding children's hospital and the region's top provider of specialty children's care, Children's Memorial Hospital was the first freestanding children's hospital to win the Magnet designation for nursing excellence, and has been recognized as one of the top 100 U.S. companies for working mothers by Working Mother magazine for the past five years in a row. In addition to companywide benefits and retention programs, Children's Memorial offers flexible scheduling, part-time hours and an innovative child and elder care program. The American Society for Health Care Human Resource Administration recognized its commitment to flexible scheduling with a best-practice award. Among its benefits, the hospital offers back-up temporary family care so employees can get to work, as well as a college coach to assist in the college application process.  It also offers a 50 percent discount off hospital charges for employees' dependents after insurance has been applied, as well as access to a credit union.

CHRISTUS St. Michael Health System (Texarkana, Texas)
Type of company: Hospital/Health system
What makes it a Best Place to Work: Open since 1916, CHRISTUS St. Michael has spent the past 90-plus years dedicated to meeting and exceeding the healthcare needs of patients in the Texarkana region, following the example of the Sisters of Charity of the Incarnate Word. CHRISTUS St. Michael encourages staff members to develop leadership skills through a mentorship program that pairs administrators or CHRISTUS Academy graduates with associates to provide them with tools and support. The health system also has a School at Work program that allows entry-level staff to advance and continue their careers in healthcare by continuing their education through their jobs. CHRISTUS St. Michael has promoted 162 employees over the past two years, due to a company-wide philosophy of promoting from within. The commitment to employee growth led to high levels of satisfaction, with the health system receiving campus-wide associate satisfaction scores in the 90^th percentile as measured by Press Ganey. CHRISTUS St. Michael's rehabilitation hospital also received Press Ganey's 2009 Associate Satisfaction Distinctive Award for having scores over the 95^th percentile for two years in a row.

Cleveland Clinic
Type of facility: Hospital/health system
What makes it a Best Place to Work: One of the largest private medical establishments in the world, Cleveland Clinic handled more than 2.8 million patient visits in 2005, including almost 70,000 hospital admissions. It operates 10 northeast Ohio hospitals plus affiliates and has excelled in numerous specialties, ranking fourth on U.S. News & World Report's list of America's Best Hospitals in 2009.  In addition to being redesignated as a Magnet hospital for nursing excellence in 2008, it received National Research Corp.'s Consumer Choice Award in 2009. Cleveland Clinic offers both a flexible health benefit program with two tiers of providers and a fully funded pension plan in which employees are automatically enrolled on their date of hire. Employees may also participate in a 403(b) plan, enjoy wellness programs including free memberships in Weight Watchers and Curves fitness centers, and receive tuition assistance of up to $5,000 annually for undergraduate programs and up to $7,500 for graduate programs. Also offered are a retiree medical plan, adoption assistance, on-site childcare, pet insurance, a computer purchase program and numerous in-house educational programs.

Covenant Health System (Lubbock, Texas)
Type of facility: Hospital/health system
What makes it a Best Place to Work: Covenant Health System consists of four cornerstone hospitals as well as a network of 14 community hospitals in the Lubbock region. The system has a strong Christian ministry dedicated to patient care. Covenant provides outreach classes to the members of the community, including classes on weight loss surgery, maternity classes and support groups. The system supports employees coping with personal crises with assistance and counselors to help them address and work through these issues. Each quarter, Covenant celebrates a few outstanding employees who demonstrate the power of its core values — dignity, excellence, service and justice — in their work. The system promotes learning opportunities by providing tuition assistance and continuing education opportunities to its staff. Covenant also offers competitive benefits including healthcare coverage, paid life insurance, 401(k) plans, relocation assistance and paid time off.

Day Surgery at RiverBend (Springfield, Ore.)
Type of facility: Ambulatory surgery center
What makes it a Best Place to Work: Day Surgery at RiverBend is a multi-specialty ASC located at the RiverBend Medical Campus in Springfield, Ore. Day Surgery is a great place to work because of its leaders' open communication with employees, which helps to improve patient care, according to employees at the center. The employees appreciate the stable work schedule that allows for work-life balance. The new center also solicited employee opinions when customizing its EMR system to help ensure seamless transition to the EMR and reduced employee workload. The physicians at the center also contribute the ASC's positive work environment. "The doctors who own and work at the surgery center treat us with mutual respect and recognize each one of us as a valuable part of the team," says Geoneva Bigham, an employee in business office services at the ASC.

Duke University Hospital (Durham, N.C.)
Type of facility: Hospital/health system
What makes it a Best Place to Work: This 924-bed hospital is part of Duke University Health System, which also includes Duke Raleigh Hospital and Durham Regional Hospital, and is affiliated with Duke University School of Medicine and Duke University School of Nursing. The hospital ranked eleventh on U.S. News & World Report's list of America's Best Hospitals and won the Everest Award, given to Thomson Reuters' top 25 hospitals. Among Duke's recent honors are being named one of the "Family-Friendly 50" companies by Carolina Parent magazine in 2009, Computerworld's top 100 IT places to work in both 2007 and 2008 and one of AARP's 50 Best Employers for Workers over 50 years old. Among its family-friendly options are child care, elder care, day camps, discount programs, flexible work arrangements, educational assistance, a farmer's market and wellness programs. One of its unique offerings is the Kiel Memorial Vacation/PTO Donation Program, under which employees can donate accrued vacation or paid time off hours to fellow employees who have experienced a catastrophic illness or injury (to themselves or a dependent) and have exhausted their own accrued time.

Ephrata Community Hospital (Ephrata, Pa.)
Type of facility: Hospital/health system
What makes it a Best Place to Work: Ephrata Community Hospital has been serving the community of north Lancaster County, Pa., for over 65 years. The non-profit hospital provides both inpatient and outpatient care and is committed to quality service. Employees often volunteer their time and efforts through the hospital's auxiliary, helping to improve the surrounding community. The hospital offers a wide range of benefits including healthcare coverage, life insurance, educational assistance and discounts on services, such as cellular phones. This attention to detail has earned the hospital recognition from Central Penn Business Journal for employee satisfaction.

Garden City Hospital (Garden City, Mich.)
Type of facility: Hospital/health system
What makes it a Best Place to Work: Garden City Hospital began as the vision of six physicians in 1947 and has since grown to a state-of-the-art, 323-bed community hospital with 365 practicing physicians in 47 specialties. The facility is also a teaching hospital, offering more than 100 positions for internships and residencies. Garden City has received the Governor's Award of Excellence for Improving Care in the Hospital and Emergency Department settings, the Michigan Health and Hospital Association's Ludwig Community Benefit Award and a National Gold Achievement Award from the American Heart Association with designation as a "fit friendly" company. Garden City employs 1,410 staff.  Aside from its commitment to employee health and fitness, the hospital offers competitive benefits including sign-on bonuses, healthcare coverage, a 401(k) plan, tuition reimbursement and paid time off. Garden City promotes career advancement by offering nursing certification awards and its C2E service excellence program to provide leadership development and enhance patient and employee satisfaction. It has been named as one of Metropolitan Detroit's "101 Best and Brightest Companies to Work For" by the Michigan Business and Professional Association for six consecutive years and was previously recognized as an honorable mention by Crain's Detroit Business as one of the best places to work in Southeast Michigan.

Genentech (South San Francisco)
Type of company: Healthcare company
What makes it a Best Place to Work: This biotech firm placed first on Fortune's "100 Best Companies to Work For" in 2006 and has been on the list for 12 consecutive years. The company has been generous with retention bonuses, handing out $182 million worth to some 11,000 employees, with a second round scheduled for March, according to Fortune. Since March 2009, Genentech has been owned by Roche Group, and Genentech's South San Francisco campus is now the headquarters for Roche pharmaceutical operations in the U.S. The company offers its employees a "comprehensive and diverse set of benefits and services," according to a release, and employees say they relish the opportunity to make a difference in patients' lives.

Gifford Medical Center (Randolph, Vt.)
Type of facility: Hospital/health system
What makes it a Best Place to Work: This rural, non-profit community hospital in the center of the Green Mountains opened in 1903 and has since grown to include a 24-bed critical access hospital, a 30-bed nursing facility and numerous ancillary services. Gifford was the first hospital in Vermont to have a birthing center. The hospital employs more than 600 staff members at its locations and is led by Joe Woodin, administrator. Gifford offers employees a wide range of benefits, including distributions each year the hospital turns a profit. Additionally, employees are provided with $50-$100 coupons to use within the community and have received turkeys and crates of oranges during the holidays. The hospital also has a policy that allows employees to donate earned vacation hours to disabled employees so they can continue to receive pay as though they were still full-time rather than waiting for disability pay. Dr. DeMara says, "My wife, Dr. Ellamarie B. Russo-DeMara, is the chairperson of the department of OB/GYN. She was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2007. Because of this policy she was able to receive her regular salary for the entire six month waiting period before her disability policy took over."

HCA (Nashville, Tenn.)
Type of organization: Hospital/health system
What makes it a Best Place to Work: One of the nation's first hospital companies dating back to 1968, HCA has some 163 hospitals and 105 freestanding surgery centers in 20 states and England. In addition to a comprehensive benefit package, HCA offers an inclusive work environment in which cultural differences are celebrated and leaders are visible, accessible and practice an open-door policy. It also sponsors the HCA Hope Fund, which employees can access for financial assistance in times of disaster or personal distress. Employees are encouraged to make their voices heard through employee advisory groups, an annual employee engagement survey, discussions with leadership teams and employee forums. Employees are also eligible for free financial education courses to help plan their financial futures. In addition to being recognized in 2009 by the Nashville Business Journal as one of the city's "outstanding companies, whose benefits, policies and practices have produced the area's happiest employees," HCA was listed among Fortune's "most admired" healthcare companies. It was also named to the Information Week 500, a list of innovative users of business technology, and as one of Computerworld's top workplaces for information technology professionals, for its health information technology program. HCA was also recently noted as one of the world's most ethical companies by the Ethisphere Institute.

Heart Hospital of Austin (Texas)
Type of facility: Hospital/health system
What makes it a Best Place to Work: The Heart Hospital of Austin is a physician-led, patient-focused, 58-bed hospital that specializes in treating cardiovascular disease. Employees at the hospital focus on five key values: honor, excellence, accountability, respect and trust. Dedication to patient care has led HealthGrades to rank the Heart Hospital as number one for cardiac care in Texas. The hospital has been recognized by the Austin Business Journal, which rated its overall satisfaction at 89.8 percent. Employees are encouraged to develop their talents at the center and exemplify the company's culture. "We have an open door policy and empower our staff to grow and develop by participating on performance improvement teams and employee engagement teams," says Leslie Dvorak, human resources director for the Heart Hospital of Austin.

Holy Name Hospital (Teaneck, N.J.)
Type of facility: Hospital/health system
What makes it a Best Place to Work: Holy Name Hospital was founded in 1925 by the Sisters of St. Joseph of Peace and is affiliated with the NewYork-Presbyterian Healthcare System. The 361-bed hospital has earned recognition as a Magnet hospital and awards from J.D. Power & Associates. NJBiz magazine named it as one of the best places to work in the state, and it has been honored as one of Thompson Reuters' top 100 hospitals. Holy Name offers its 250 employees competitive benefits including healthcare coverage, a 401(k), vacation time, life insurance and tuition reimbursement. Employees have continued to rate the hospital highly for its workplace environment, leading to repeated recognition.

Indiana Regional Medical Center (Indiana, Pa.)
Type of facility: Hospital/health system
What makes it a Best Place to Work: IRMC, a non-profit, full-service healthcare provider in Indiana County, Pa., strives to be the best community hospital in Pennsylvania while caring for patients with compassion, dignity and respect. This mission extends to how IRMC cares for its 1,200 employees as well. It has been named as one of the best places to work in Pennsylvania by the Best Companies Group. Its low nurse turnover rate, at 2 percent, is well below the national average. IRMC offers its employees a variety of benefits including healthcare coverage, free flu shots, long-term disability coverage, life insurance, paid time-off, tuition reimbursement, scholarships and loan forgiveness and on-site continuing education. The hospital also honors employees with a variety of recognition programs including length of service recognition and service excellence recognition programs. IRMC also includes a company store and free parking, and employees can receive discounts at local businesses.

Jersey Shore Ambulatory Surgery Center (Somers Point, N.J.)
Type of facility: Ambulatory surgery center
What Makes it a Best Place to Work: Jersey Shore ASC is a four-OR, multi-specialty ASC that opened in 2002 and is managed by ASD Management. The average length of employment at Jersey Shore is five years, and the staff works together to ensure quality and efficiency. According to Martha Potter, RN, MHCA, administrator of Jersey Shore, "We try to have fun while we're working. Area managers provide the staff with the necessary tools and equipment needed to successfully do their jobs." Jersey Shore ASC offers ongoing in-services for staff members on issues related to compliance, new procedures and new technology. Employees also receive benefits such as paid time-off, healthcare coverage, life insurance, 401(k) and long- and short-term disability. Managers value communication, with an open door policy and frequent meetings to keep staff members up to date on what is going on at the center.

Johns Hopkins Hospital (Baltimore)
Type of facility: Hospital/health system
What makes it a Best Place to Work: Johns Hopkins Hospital has a reputation as one of the premier hospitals in the country, ranking first on U.S. News & World Report's Honor Roll of America's Best Hospitals. The hospital is also affiliated with the prestigious Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, which helps attract A-list talent. Its reputation and success has enabled the hospital to create a patient-centered culture and offer excellent benefits. For example, employees at Johns Hopkins Hospital can receive tuition reimbursement of up to $5,000 annually and support for a dependent's undergraduate tuition (up to 50 percent of The John Hopkins University's freshman undergraduate tuition) reimbursed for children of employees at any college.

King's Daughters Medical Center (Ashland, Ky.)
Type of facility: Hospital/health system
What makes it a Best Place to Work: KDMC is a non-profit, 450-bed regional referral center that cares for patients in southern Ohio, eastern Kentucky and western West Virginia. The center has a staff retention rate of around 96 percent. KDMC's staff has earned it recognition by Thomson Reuters as one of the country's Top 100 Hospitals, and Fortune magazine and the Kentucky Society for Human Resource Management State Council have named the hospital one of the best places to work in Kentucky. KDMC's success can be attributed to the dedication of its workers, and the hospital attempts to say "thank you" to each employee by offering a range of benefits. These include recognition programs, retirement and college savings plans, healthcare coverage, health and wellness programs and on-site child care. Staff members also receive discounts to regional attractions and area businesses, personal computer loans and rewards for volunteering and community service.

Lakeland Surgical + Diagnostic Center (Lakeland, Fla.)
Type of facility: Ambulatory surgery center
What makes it a Best Place to Work: LSDC is owned by two large physician practices and an 850-bed regional medical center. The ASC consists of three campuses, and LSDC sees some 18,000 patients annually. The center offers its employees benefits such as profit-sharing, five-year bonuses, health insurance, a 401(k) plan and out-of-work functions such as holiday parties. The company also offers tuition assistance and an employee recognition program. Turnover at LSDC remains below 15 percent, and the average length of employment is around eight years. Supervisors at LSDC make a point of interacting with patients, and the center's CEO, David Daniel, walks through the facility at least twice daily. The ASC supports education and advancement within the facility by looking to promote from within before looking outside the ASC to hire. "The staff morale is extremely high, which translates into high patient satisfaction and makes the ASC the facility of choice for physicians in the area," Mr. Daniel says.

Laser Spine Institute (Tampa, Fla.)
Type of company: Ambulatory surgery center
What makes it a Best Place to Work: LSI operates three Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery Centers in Tampa, Scottsdale, Ariz., and Philadelphia. The company began in 2005 as an office-based surgery center and soon expanded to an eight-room ASC, followed by the opening of the Scottsdale and Philadelphia locations. Currently the company offers benefits such as a 401(k), tuition reimbursement, travel to industry conferences, paid time-off and healthcare coverage. LSI also offers extensive training for new employees and incentive programs based on annual individual, departmental and company performance. LSI rewards employees throughout the year with in-person and e-mail recognitions and awards. The company also caters meals for overtime workers and supports employees involved in charitable causes. The attention to dedicated employees and positive atmosphere carry through to employee satisfaction. In its first year surveying its employees, LSI had 97 percent voluntary participation and was ranked in the 83^rd percentile for similar-sized companies. "Throughout LSI, experienced employees in all tiers of healthcare delivery share the same sentiment: they've never worked anyplace like this," says Valerie Maxam-Moore, RN, MN, LSI's director of clinical compliance.  "The executive team makes it clear that being 'the best place to work' is as important as being 'the best place to have surgery.'"

Lehigh Valley Health Network (Allentown, Pa.)
Type of facility: Hospital/health system
What makes it a Best Place to Work: This non-profit system in Pennsylvania's Lehigh Valley includes three hospitals, more than 1,200 physicians, primary and specialty clinics for the uninsured and underinsured and home health and hospice services, among other services. The largest employer in the Lehigh Valley, it offers free healthcare and a prescription drug program for its full-time employees. It also offers health and dental benefits for domestic partners, a wellness program that gives employees $700 per year to use toward exercise and healthy lifestyle classes and a "Well U." program that teaches employees ways to improve their wellness habits. Lehigh Valley also offers on-site daycare and tuition reimbursement of up to $4,000 annually for full-time employees (up to $2,000 annually for part-time employees). In recent years it has been featured on Fortune's 100 Best Companies to Work for list (2007, 2008 and 2009) and in Computerworld's 100 Best Places to Work in IT (2009), among other honors. In addition, LVHN sets patient satisfaction goals and provides bonuses to all employees who achieve positive performance evaluation scores when network goals are met. Managers and new hires also receive training through the system's "Connections" program to ease their transitions into new positions.

Lifebridge Health (Baltimore)
Type of facility: Hospital/health system
What makes it a Best Place to Work: This two-hospital system, which also includes a geriatric hospital, nursing home and wellness division, was featured both on Fortune's list of 100 Best Companies to Work for and Baltimore Magazine's 25 Best Places to Work for 2010. Both cited its leadership development program for all managers and supervisors, and a tuition assistance program that offers up to $5,000 a year to employees who work more than 20 hours per week. Lifebridge also offers ways for entry-level employees to climb the career ladder, with a skills enhancement program that offers college prep classes, math and reading classes, and help earning a GED or high school diploma. Employees can even get paid for time away from their jobs if they are accepted into training programs sponsored by the hospital system.

The Lippy Group for Ear, Nose & Throat and Lippy Surgery Center (Warren, Ohio)
Type of company: Physician practice/surgery center
What makes it a Best Place to Work: The group, founded by William Lippy, MD, is a three-physician practice that includes a specialty-specific surgery center and focuses on otology, ENT, audiology, balance disorders and allergies. The Lippy Group's three physicians, Dr. Lippy, Tonia L. Farmer, MD, and Leonard P. Berenholz, MD, are what make the practice a great place to work, due to their commitment to patient care and willingness to work hard for staff and patients alike. "[Our physicians] are first-class surgeons and are an absolute pleasure to work for," says Gail Tereba, administrator. "They are physicians who always go the extra mile for their patients and staff, therefore having a staff that wants to go the extra mile to make the physicians' jobs easier. It is a win-win situation any way you look at it. They are top-notch healthcare providers who provide a wonderful working environment for their staff.  They are always willing to take the time to teach, which is an added plus in any job."

Massachusetts General Hospital (Boston)
Type of facility: Hospital/health system
What makes it a Best Place to Work: Massachusetts General Hospital prides itself on creating a workplace that welcomes a diverse set of employees of all different ethnic backgrounds, cultures, ages, lifestyles and physical abilities, which can be seen across its more than 23,000 employees. MGH aims to create a rich culture by bringing together employees with different perspectives and abilities. The hospital's clinical success — U.S. News & World Report ranks it fifth in the nation on its Honor Roll — has benefited from a workforce that consists of driven, dedicated individuals. MGH's commitment to diversity is manifested in a variety of programs and benefits that include cultural competency courses through the hospital's Patient Services Center; programs to support minority and women scientists and physicians; and employee groups such as the Association of Multicultural Members of Partners, the Multicultural Affairs Office, the Massachusetts General Hospital Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Employee Resource Group and the Office for Women's Careers. MGH also offers same-sex partner benefits and adoption services.

Mayo Clinic (Rochester, Minn.)
Type of facility: Hospital/health system
What makes it a Best Place to Work: Mayo Clinic has a reputation not only for exceptional patient care but has earned a place among the best places to work for healthcare professionals. The non-profit, integrated group practice has locations in Jacksonville, Fla., Phoenix, Ariz., and Rochester, Minn., home to its headquarters. Mayo employs 57,000 staff members. Voluntary turnover at the clinic is 5 percent. Mayo also actively recruits students and new graduates to its locations, as well as those looking for retraining in a new career. Mayo employees receive numerous benefits including healthcare coverage, family and child care, retirement planning programs and paid time-off. Staff members at Mayo also benefit from extensive training, professional growth and education programs including tuition assistance, instructor-led online classes and training programs. Recognition programs include Mayo Awards for Excellence, a recognition program for every five years of service, heritage days and weekly concerts.

MedHQ (Westchester, Ill.)
Type of company: Healthcare company
What makes it a Best Place to Work: Led by Thomas Jacobs, MedHQ is a professional employer organization and business-office outsourcing service for healthcare, ASCs, surgical hospitals, imaging centers and other physician-affiliated businesses. The company values its employees not just based on their capabilities but also for who they are, according to Robin Lacine, executive director of business development. "Working here I feel that I am not just a contributor to our business but rather I am a valued member of the MedHQ team and family. MedHQ allows their employees the balance to pursue other life callings, not just their work calling. They support employee efforts as they serve others in their churches and communities," she adds. MedHQ measures its employees based on five core values — trust, quality, respect, innovation and energy — which has helped the company create a truly outstanding work culture. Ms. Lacine explains the core values: "Trust means making decisions on what is best for others, engendering our healthcare clients' confidence; quality means being dependable and delivering the best we can; respect means treating each other and our clients as we would want to be treated; innovation means serving through learning and embracing new ideas; and energy means being a part of a team that truly enjoys working together, who enjoys delivering value to our customers and finds joy in supporting each other."

Medline Industries (Mundelein, Ill.)
Type of company: Healthcare company
What makes it a Best Place to Work: The fastest growing distributor of medical and surgical supplies in the U.S. during the past five years, Medline is the primary distributor to over 250 major hospitals and healthcare systems. Its 6,000 employees enjoy comprehensive health benefits, recognition awards, business casual dress, free food and a diverse work environment. After working there 60 days, employees are eligible for high-school diploma and undergraduate course reimbursement, and after a year, employees are eligible for graduate school reimbursement. There is no limit on the annual reimbursement amount. Employees also have access to Medline Financial Services, a non-profit, full-service financial institution that offers competitive interest rates. What sets Medline apart, according to its employees, is its "heart." Whether it is a company driver volunteering to drive essential medical supplies to a Baltimore hospital during a blizzard or more than 600 employees giving up a Saturday to renovate a local school, Medline employees are proud of their commitment to the greater community.

Meridian Health (Neptune, N.J.)
Type of facility: Hospital/health system
What makes it a Best Place to Work: Meridian Health manages five hospitals in New Jersey as well as other providers of community and in-home healthcare and employs 7,100. The system has received numerous awards such as the Magnet award, the John M. Eisensberg Award for Innovation in Patient Safety and Quality and CEO Cancer Gold Standard Accreditation. The health system has also been recognized by the New Jersey Business & Industry Association and NJBiz magazines as one of the best places to work in New Jersey. According to John Sindoni, SPHR, senior vice president of Human Resources at Meridian Health, this is a part of Meridian Health's goal to "create an experience for our team members that is a 'wow' from recruitment to retirement." Meridian Health hopes to achieve high quality patient care by creating a high quality employee environment. The company offers its "Partnership 'Total Rewards' Program," based on "highly competitive pay, flexible health and lifestyle benefits, outstanding work environment, supportive culture, valuable learning and career development and a dedication to ensuring a quality of life balance between work and home," according to the company's Web site. Meridian Health also recognizes outstanding employees through its Galaxy Team Recognition Program, with highest level achievers being named as Meridian Legends for acts of service that far exceed the company's expectations.

Meridian Surgical Partners (Brentwood, Tenn.)
Type of company: Healthcare company
What makes it a Best Place to Work: This management and development company for ambulatory surgery centers operates 10 centers nationwide. David F. "Buddy" Bacon Jr., Kenneth Hancock, and Catherine Kowalski founded the company in March 2006. Its turnover rate for 2009 was 10 percent, and the company maintains an average of 95 percent of an ASC's original employees when acquiring a center. Currently, 181 full-time and 93 part-time staff members are part of the company's team. Meridian offers competitive benefits including paid time off, healthcare coverage, short-term (employee paid) and long-term (company paid) disability insurance, life insurance (both company paid and voluntary) and a 401(k) plan. The company also pays for employees to attend seminars and conferences to continue training in their fields. "From the top down, each Meridian employee is given the charge to create value and understand that their role can and should have a direct impact on the success of the company," says Jennifer Fuqua, Meridian's director of marketing. "Meridian measures success through patient, employee, partner and shareholder satisfaction and strives for excellence in all endeavors. The company values its employees and partners and provides them with the positive leadership, necessary resources and efficient environments they need to perform at optimal levels."

The Methodist Hospital System (Houston)
Type of facility: Hospital/healthcare system
What makes it a Best Place to Work: The Methodist Hospital System has made Fortune magazine's "100 Best Companies to Work For" five years in a row, earning the number 17 spot this year and the highest ranking among healthcare organizations on the list. The system is made up of The Methodist Hospital in the Texas Medical Center, Methodist Sugar Land Hospital, Methodist Willowbrook Hospital, San Jacinto Methodist Hospital in Baytown and The Methodist Hospital Research Institute. In addition to offering competitive benefits, a diverse workforce of 12,000 and employee recognition programs, it fosters an environment of integrity, accountability, respect and excellence, according to a press release. According to Fortune, the system measures patient quality quarterly and offers bonuses of up to $300 to non-management staff if the hospital's goals are met.

Mid-Columbia Medical Center (The Dalles, Ore.)
Type of facility: Hospital/healthcare system
What makes it a Best Place to Work: Mid-Columbia Medical Center has been recognized for is outstanding service to both its patients and its employees. The 49-bed hospital was named a Designated Planetree Patient-Centered Hospital by Planetree — a nonprofit organization that promotes patient-centered care — in 2007. According to Planetree, this designation recognizes MCMC's achievement and innovation in fostering a culture within the hospital that prioritizes patient comfort, dignity, empowerment and well-being. The hospital has also received the Oregon Quality Award for performance excellence and the Families in Good Company Award for dedication to families and community. MCMC has developed an entire department dedicated to employee care. Employee Experience Services provides personal grocery shopping, dry cleaning delivery and drop off and car maintenance as well as developmental services such as career mapping and a personalized education plan. MCMC also houses the Great 'N Small Child Development Center, an on-campus, licensed facility that provides childcare and education.

Midwest Orthopaedics at RUSH (Westchester, Ill.)
Type of facility: Physician practice
What makes it a Best Place to Work: Teamwork and creativity have led to a great work environment at Midwest Orthopaedics at RUSH. The team mentality is present in all 243 members of MOR's staff, with everyone willing to chip in when and where they are needed. Yamile Watkins, senior administrative assistant at MOR, says, "We can all see the 'big picture.' It is never too much especially when you love what you do. We all work together as a team, nothing less, and we all love what we do and it shows." This attitude has led to a successful employee referral program at MOR, with many current employees bringing in new staff members who have continued the practice's goal of providing quality orthopedic service and keeping its patients happy. Even in difficult economic times, MOR has maintained employee benefits and has even managed to enhance some of its current benefits, including celebrations such as the summer company picnic and winter employee appreciation party. Other benefits include paid time off and holidays, healthcare coverage, life insurance, tuition reimbursement, long-term and voluntary short-term disability and a 401(k). MOR also provides many small incentives for its employees, including potlucks, employee recognition program and contests, including White Sox trivia.

Missoula Bone & Joint and Surgery Center (Missoula, Mont.)
Type of facility: Physician practice/ambulatory surgery center
What makes it a Best Place to Work: This practice of eight board-certified orthopedic surgeons offering care in areas such as sports medicine, joint replacement, arthroscopy, hand and microvascular surgery, spine, foot and ankle and general orthopedics has been serving western Montana for over 50 years. The practice also includes a state-of-the-art ASC. Employees have been with the company for an average of six years and are offered competitive benefits including paid time-off, healthcare coverage, disability leave, a continuing education allowance and a 401(k) plan. The practice surveys employee satisfaction every six months to address any staff concerns. Recognition programs include prize drawings, co-worker recognition contests and gift certificates for paid time off. CEO Sami Spencer says, "Missoula Bone & Joint is a great place to work because of the wonderful physicians, the awesome staff and beautiful facility. The teamwork and positive energy at the practice are amazing. The family environment is what really sets this group apart from the rest."

Nebraska Orthopaedic Hospital (Omaha)
Type of facility: Hospital/health system
What makes it a Best Place to Work: Launched in April 2004, Nebraska Orthopaedic Hospital specializes in the treatment of orthopedic patients. It is licensed as an acute-care hospital and is accredited by the Joint Commission, with many of its surgeons sub-specializing and all working at other hospitals in the region too. In addition to providing medical, dental and life insurance as well as a 401(k) plan, the hospital offers employees a performance-sharing program. Targets in patient satisfaction and financial success are set each year by the hospital's board, and if the targets are met, employees receive a bonus in December. For managers, the performance-sharing program includes an employee satisfaction component. For 2009, 83 percent of employees who responded to an employee satisfaction survey said they were satisfied with their employment, and 91 percent said they would recommend employment at the hospital to others. The hospital also hosts a "Nursing Night Out" three times a year, during which nurses not only learn new procedures but also enjoy a relaxing dinner and networking opportunity.

NewYork-Presbyterian University Hospital (New York)
Type of facility: Hospital/health system
What makes it a Best Place to Work: The motto of NewYork-Presbyterian is "Make It Possible," and with a dedicated team of over 16,000, the hospital proudly serves two of every five patients in the dense New York City market. The hospital is supported by two Ivy League institutions: The Weill Medical College of Cornell University and Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons. These resources have helped NewYork-Presbyterian rank as the sixth hospital in the nation, according to U.S. News & World Report. The hospital is constantly growing, providing security and new opportunities for its staff. NewYork-Presbyterian provides its employees with a range of benefits, including flexible scheduling, transportation reimbursement, healthcare coverage, dependent coverage, life insurance and on-site day care.

North Bay Regional Surgery Center (Novato, Calif.)
Type of facility: Ambulatory surgery center
What makes it a Best Place to Work: North Bay Regional, an affiliate of Sutter Health, opened its doors in Sept. 2008 with three ORs and one procedure room. Aspiring to be accessible to all patients, the center received a 2009 Certificate of Honor from the city and county of San Francisco for its commitment to charity care. Sutter offers a company-matched 401(k) plan, and employees receive full reimbursement for professional certification and medical training. Off-site team building activities are held at least quarterly, and North Bay Regional's administrator and medical director frequently use informal discussions, lunch updates and one-on-one meetings to stay in touch with employees. Not only is advancement within the center encouraged, but employees have access to Sutter's 17 surgery centers and 25 hospitals for additional career opportunities. Although only in business for 18 months, this ASC has already established a commitment to employee satisfaction, summed up in a message from its staff: "Our schedule: Work Hard; Make Someone's Life Better; Go Home Happy."

Northshore University HealthSystem (Evanston, Ill.)
Type of facility: Hospital/health system
What makes it a Best Place to Work: Located in the northern suburbs of Chicago, Northshore University HealthSystem is an academic health system that includes Evanston Hospital, Glenbrook Hospital, Highland Park Hospital and Skokie Hospital. It also includes a medical group, research institute, home services and charitable foundation. Northshore has been included on the Thomson Reuters list of 100 Top Hospitals 12 times and has residents on staff from the University of Chicago's Pritzker School of Medicine. One of the only health systems to use an entirely electronic medical information system, Northshore was a pioneer in the field of EMRs. Employees have access to a three-tiered health insurance plan, dental, life and disability insurance, and flexible spending accounts for healthcare and dependent care. In addition to a festive holiday party and summer employee appreciation days during which employees can enjoy heavily discounted tickets to Great America, Northshore has a Guest Chef program that has featured chefs from some of Chicago's finest restaurants serving up their specialties at the hospital cafeteria.

NovaMed (Chicago)
Type of facility: Healthcare company
What makes it a Best Place to Work: NovaMed acquires, develops and operates ASCs in partnership with physicians and currently has ownership interests in 37 ASCs in 19 states and employs 544 full-time staff members. To ensure managers and employees at its centers are receiving training and support, NovaMed developed an online learning management system that all employees and contractors with the company can access for company-wide initiatives. The system also includes position-specific training modules and resources for employees to stay abreast of the latest issues relevant to their jobs. Staff members are also provided with up to $200 annually toward training and staying current on any certifications and licenses. ASC directors also attend an annual meeting run by NovaMed to further enhance their leadership skills. NovaMed has also managed to maintain a strong benefits package for its employees, including healthcare coverage, paid-time off, an employee stock purchase plan and 401(k). The ability of the company to motivate and empower employees has been reflected in its Employee Satisfaction Survey, which routinely receives over 90 percent participation with 93 percent of employees rating their job satisfaction at an "A" or a "B" level.

OhioHealth (Columbus, Ohio)
Type of facility: Hospital/health system
What makes it a Best Place to Work: OhioHealth, a non-profit healthcare organization that includes 18 hospitals and 23 health and surgery centers, employs 15,000 workers and serves communities in central Ohio. The system reports a voluntary turnover rate of 6 percent and job growth of 3 percent annually. More than 2,000 employees have put in over 20 years. OhioHealth and its locations are dedicated to improving the health of those served by the company, while honoring the dignity of every patient. Employees who exemplify the company's mission are recognized through a variety of programs including a service pin program, family events and spot recognition events. The celebrations often include music by the hospital band, Spleen. Employees at OhioHealth also enjoy other perks such as flexible shift and scheduling options, discount tickets to sporting events and participation in Ohio's corporate challenge. Benefits include medical, dental and vision coverage, life insurance, long-term disability, retirement programs, paid time-off and tuition reimbursement. Through its dedication to its employees, OhioHealth has been recognized four years running by Fortune magazine.

OrthoMaryland (Baltimore)
Type of company: Physician practice
What makes it a Best Place to Work: OrthoMaryland is one of the oldest and most respected orthopedic practices in the Baltimore region. The practice consists of 16 physicians and one physician assistant, in addition to other office staff members. Its services span three full-time office locations, a full array of musculoskeletal ancillary services and one full-time ambulatory surgery center. OrthoMaryland is governed by committee, and according to Heidi Mattingly, CEO of the practice, everyone at the practice is anxious to do their part and willing to assist one another to help the practice succeed. She adds staff members have been quick to share their ideas and contribute to the success of the organization and feel "safe" sharing differing thoughts and opinions. "OrthoMaryland has made a commitment to its employees with open communication, education for personal and professional growth, as well as fostering a team approach to empower all team members to make a difference," says Karrie Fields, director of operations.

Orthopedic South Surgical Center (Morrow, Ga.)
Type of facility: Ambulatory surgery center
What makes it a Best Place to Work: Orthopedic South Surgical Center is an orthopedic surgery center that opened in October 2003 and is part of the United Surgical Partners International family of facilities. The center includes 33 full-time employees, a third of whom have been with the center for five years or longer. This intimate work environment has made employees at the center feel like they are part of a family. Lynn Pounds Barnette, clinical manager of the center, says, "It wasn’t until I came to OSSC that I understood what the true meaning of teamwork is. Everyone works together and is willing to jump in and do anything that is needed to make our patients feel safe and comfortable, and to keep things moving along well. The 'that isn't my job' phrase is never heard here, you will see the administrator and managers cleaning stretchers and taking out the trash on any given day." Orthopedic South depends on patient and employee surveys to identify areas of improvement and works to address every concern as soon as possible. Facility leadership not only implements plans for improvement, but has also developed a committee to make sure that changes are followed through and creates action plans when needed. The center works to keep employees happy and offers benefits including healthcare coverage, paid time off, tuition reimbursement and employee morale programs such as an Employee of the Quarter recognition, cook-outs and diversity fact contests.

Parkway Surgery Center (Hagerstown, Md.)
Type of facility: Ambulatory surgery center
What makes it a Best Place to Work: Parkway Surgery Center opened in Sept. 2006 and focuses on surgical and non-surgical treatment of the spine. The center is part of the Blue Chip Surgical Partners network of ASCs. Parkway employs eight FTEs, most of whom have been on staff for over three years, since the ASC's opening. Employee benefits include healthcare coverage, short-term disability insurance, life insurance and a 401(k). Parkway also monitors employee satisfaction using annual surveys. In Aug. 2009, when the last survey was conducted, employees rated the center highly, according to Administrator Jennifer Collins. It is the employees that make Parkway a great place to work, according to Ms. Collins. "The nurses and business office staff are the friendliest, dedicated and professional people I've ever worked with," she says. "They not only care for our patients in a most sincere way, but they also constantly strive to make our center great. Every day here, each and every employee completes their tasks and duties with one goal in mind: to do their jobs in the best possible way they can."

Providence Health & Services Alaska (Anchorage)
Type of facility: Hospital/health system
What makes it a Best Place to Work: This integrated health delivery system, part of Providence Health & Services, is Alaska's largest employer, with more than 4,400 employees, almost 80 percent of who are women. It has been on Working Mother's best companies list three out of the past five years for its dedication to family-friendly benefits. Among those benefits are a women's mentoring network that meets regularly to discuss mid-life career and family issues and an on-site childcare center for infants through third graders. Providence also offers tuition reimbursement, flexible scheduling, options to work from home and financial assistance for employees who are adopting.

Sage Products (Cary, Ill.)
Type of company: Healthcare company
What makes it a Best Place to Work: This healthcare manufacturing company develops patient hygiene programs and products to help healthcare facilities improve clinical outcomes by reducing rates of hospital-acquired and surgical-site infections, healthcare-associated pneumonia and other adverse events. The company achieved record sales in 2008 and continues to hire and expand its workforce of more than 550 employees. The company offers a profit-sharing plan and a 401(k) plan with a dollar-for-dollar company match, as well as an on-site fitness center and free annual health screenings for employees, their spouses and the company's retirees.

Rex Healthcare (Raleigh, N.C.)
Type of facility: Hospital/health system
What makes it a Best Place to Work: Rex Healthcare is a private, non-profit health system that is part of the UNC Health System and consists of an acute-care hospital; four wellness centers; two skilled nursing facilities focusing on rehabilitation and long-term nursing care; a freestanding outpatient diagnostic center; an urgent care center and a surgery center. Rex employs 4,600 staff members at its locations across Wake County. The system has a history of providing excellent patient care in North Carolina and has received much recognition. It was the first in the Triangle region to receive Magnet recognition for quality nursing, and Thomson Reuters has recognized the hospital as one of the Top 100 Hospitals in the country. Rex's dedication to its staff has also been widely recognized. Triangle Business Journal, Working Mother magazine and Carolina Parent Magazine have all listed Rex as a great company to work for and as a family-friendly company. Benefits for Rex employees include paid time off, tuition reimbursement, health insurance, a 403(b) retirement program, life insurance and childcare.

St. Joseph Health System (Orange, Calif.)
Type of facility: Hospital/health system
What makes it a Best Place to Work: St. Joseph is an integrated healthcare delivery organization, sponsored by the Sisters of St. Joseph of Orange, that operates 10 hospitals in California, Texas and New Mexico and has 20,000 employees in its system. Benefits include healthcare coverage for employees, spouses and unmarried children; competitive salaries; paid time-off; family leave; social events; and discounts to movies, amusement parks and other family attractions. "We believe it is our responsibility to create an environment where our employees know their voices matter," Deborah Proctor, president and CEO of St. Joseph, says. "We applaud our employees for their active involvement to improve patient care, maintain highly safe environments for one another and our patients, and ensure that we achieve our mission."

St. Vincent Health (Indianapolis)
Type of organization: Hospital/health system
What makes it a Best Place to Work: Part of Ascension Health, the nation's largest Catholic hospital system, St. Vincent is also one of Indiana's largest employers, with a presence in 45 counties in the state. It includes one quaternary facility, three tertiary hospitals, six critical access hospitals, six specialty hospitals and several joint venture partners. Employees who work more than 20 hours per week are eligible for medical, dental, vision and prescription drug coverage, flexible spending accounts, long- and short-term disability benefits, an employer-matched 403(b) plan, tuition reimbursement and health promotion and wellness programs. Its competitive benefits program earned the system a place on the Indianapolis Star's list of "Best Places to Work" in 2007 and 2008, and its St. Joseph Hospital has been on the Indiana Chamber of Commerce's "Best Places to Work" list for the past three years in a row. The recognition reflects the value the system places on the thoughts and opinions of its employees, according to Cindy Babb, executive director of Human Resources at St. Joseph Hospital, part of St. Vincent's network.

Scripps Health (San Diego)
Type of company: Hospital/health system
What makes it a Best Place to Work: This $2-billion, non-profit community health system has five acute-care campuses, home health services and an ambulatory care network of clinics, physician offices and outpatient centers. The system ranked fortieth on Fortune's 100 Best Companies to Work For, and was also featured on this year's Working Mother's 100 Best Companies list for its "life cycle" approach that allows its predominantly female workforce to shift job responsibilities to meet changing family needs. Scripps remained competitive in a difficult economy by making biannual marketplace salary adjustments and offering a phased retirement option that allowed older employees to work part-time with full-time benefits. The system also paid bonuses to 11,275 employees in Dec. 2009 for meeting performance goals. Despite low employee turnover — 27 percent of its workforce has been with the organization for more than 10 years and 10 percent for more than 20 years — Scripps has continued to hire during a difficult economy.

SourceMedical (Birmingham, Ala.)
Type of facility: Healthcare company
What makes it a Best Place to Work: SourceMedical, which provides IT software solutions and services to ASCs and rehabilitation clinics, takes a unique focus on its people, by making every effort to adapt to its employees' personal and professional needs. The company employs 192 staff members who work with SourceMedical's nationwide network of customers. A company that is "just the right size" has been a key to the company's positive work environment. Mark Ventura, QA Manager for Source Medical, says, "We're large enough where we have good benefits package, yet we're small enough where we each have a voice. We can make recommendations that will benefit our customers and they are taken into consideration by the right people. Upper management has a lot of respect for their employees, and they can are always approachable." SourceMedical offers its employees paid sick leave and time off, healthcare coverage, short- and long-term disability benefits, 401(k) and an employee fitness program, which pays for part of an employee's or family's gym membership. SourceMedical also has a Work-Life Balance Employee Assistance Program that includes childcare and/or eldercare referrals, personal relationship information, health information, legal consultations with licensed attorneys, financial planning assistance, stress management and career development.

South Texas Spine & Surgical Hospital (San Antonio, Texas)
Type of facility: Hospital/health system
What makes it a Best Place to Work: This 30-bed surgical hospital was launched in 2001 by National Surgical Hospitals and a group of entrepreneurial local physicians. It offers spine, orthopedic and pain-management procedures and last year was ranked first in Texas for patient satisfaction by Consumer Reports. South Texas Spine & Surgical offers its employees annual bonuses based on quality, financial and service metrics, and was ranked one of NSH's top hospitals. Among the benefits it offers are a 401(k) plan with company matching, tuition reimbursement, and group health, dental, group life, supplemental life, vision and disability insurance. Senior leadership and supervisors check in with employees regularly and hold bi-monthly town hall meetings to enhance communication. Employees emphasize the atmosphere of teamwork as well as a warm and caring environment that helps minimize the stress patients often associate with surgical procedures and hospital stays. Employees — many of whom are single parents — are given the flexibility to prioritize their families over their jobs, they say.

South Texas Surgical Center (Seguin, Texas)
Type of facility: Ambulatory surgery center
What makes it a Best Place to Work: This 18,000 square-foot surgery center, operated by Foundation Surgery Affiliates, has 11 physician partners who concentrate on six medical specialties. It has been serving the Seguin community since Jan. 2005, and of the original staff members, half still work at the ASC, with the others leaving due to retirement or education, according to Teri Wolff, the ASC's clinical manager. Employees at South Texas Surgical Center receive a wide range of benefits, including paid vacation time, health insurance, holiday bonuses, a 401(k) and paid certification programs. South Texas Surgical Center depends on a team atmosphere, and new employees partner with an experienced employee for a 90-day orientation, says Ms. Wolff. Staff members are also cross-trained. "We all wear many hats so that we can help in any way we are needed at any time to ensure that the patients' and visitors' time with us is as comfortable as possible," Ms. Wolff says.

Southern Ohio Medical Center (Portsmouth, Ohio)
Type of facility: Hospital/health system
What makes it a Best Place to Work: SOMC is a 222-bed hospital that provides emergency and surgical care. The hospital has been dedicated to expanding and improving its services and making a difference in its community. This has allowed SOMC to achieve Magnet status and a Voluntary Protection Program Star Designation. SOMC has extended this commitment to its employees, earning recognition from both Fortune magazine and The Society for Human Resource Management, Ohio State Council for being one of the best places to work both nationally and statewide. Representatives from SOMC say a family atmosphere contributes to a culture that makes the hospital a great place to work. SOMC and its employees are dedicated to its strategic values of safety, quality, service, relationships and performance. Benefits offered to SOMC's employees include healthcare coverage, retirement programs, life insurance, college savings plans, paid time-off and discount plans to local services.

Southgate Surgery Center (Southgate, Mich.)
Type of facility: Ambulatory surgery center
What makes it a Best Place to Work: Southgate Surgery Center, which opened in 1983, specializes in ophthalmology and GI procedures. The center has experienced less than 1 percent turnover rate, based on historical data. Employees have been with SSC for an average of eight years, due in part to open communication among staff and supervisors. According to Linda Phillips, RN, administrator at SSC, "If there is a problem, an employee knows they don't have to be afraid to go to their supervisor to discuss it, and the supervisor will address the problem promptly." Benefits include healthcare coverage, paid sick leave, vacation time and training programs. Staff members work together as a "strong family unit," according to Ms. Phillips. "I say 'family' and not 'team,' because we are more than just a team. Many of us have been working together for years and have grown to become great friends, and I believe our friendships create a positive, vibrant work environment where all staff members work together to provide the highest patient care." High patient satisfaction rates show patients have responded to this positive environment.

Specialty Surgery Center (Sparta, N.J.)
Type of facility: Ambulatory surgery center
What makes it a Best Place to Work: SSC opened in 2007 and is a two-OR, multi-specialty ASC that is 100 percent physician-owned. In two years of operation, only one employee has left. SSC has been recognized in the past as one of Becker's ASC Review's Great ASCs to Work For and as the first U.S. Center of Excellence for Spine Training. Individual employees have also been recognized; the director of nursing was nominated for Nurse of the Year and an OR aide was nominated for Best Aide of the Year. The local Chamber of Commerce also nominated SSC as the Best New Business. Employee benefits include paid time-off (including two education days and one floating holiday), healthcare coverage, a 401(k) and annual bonuses. Company-wide functions include in-services, spa nights and dinners to discuss changes at the ASC, an annual company picnic and an annual holiday party. SSC is also dedicated to community service and served as the Sussex County drop-off for medical supplies for Haiti relief efforts. SSC also makes efforts to recognize and reward all of its employees. It runs an Employee of the Year contest and celebrates monthly birthdays with all staff. The ASC is also involved with local surgical tech and central tech programs and has hired two employees from this partnership. Bonnie Brady, RN, administrator of SSC, says employee satisfaction can be summarized in one story: "Our staff members asked if they could provide dinner at our end-of-the-year meeting to thank our physician owners after receiving annual bonuses and raises. I figured it would be some food they had delivered. Imagine our surprise when they set up the lobby and kitchen area with chafing dishes and a carving station. They cooked all of the food, and the physicians were not allowed to serve themselves as a special thank you from the staff."

Stanford Hospital and Clinics (Palo Alto, Calif.)
Type of facility: Hospital/health system
What makes it a Best Place to Work: Stanford Hospital and Clinics is a premier academic medical facility and includes Stanford Hospital and Lucile Packard Children's Hospital. Because of its strong ties to Stanford University, the system recruits and maintains high-level medical talent and innovators across its network. Stanford also prides itself on a culture of teamwork and learning, as staff members are faced with challenges and high-acuity cases every day. Ties with Stanford University allow the hospitals' employees access to many of the University's resources, including a wealth of continuing medical education courses offered through the School of Medicine. Employees can also access free passes for public transportation, Stanford's health improvement program and local recreational facilities in additional to competitive wages, healthcare benefits and paid time off.

Surgery Center of Farmington (Farmington, Mo.)
Type of facility: Ambulatory surgery center
What makes it a Best Place to Work: South of St. Louis, Mo., the Surgery Center of Farmington is a freestanding ASC that opened in 1999 and strives to offer its community the same quality service they could expect in big cities. It is part of the ASD Management family of ASCs. In 2009, the center performed over 5,300 cases, and its surgeons specialize in ophthalmology, gastroenterology, gynecology, ENT, podiatry, orthopedics, pain management and general surgery. Many of the original staff members are still at the Surgery Center. Debbie Douglas, a billing associate with the Surgery Center, says, "I have only been employed for 1.5 years, but I feel like I am part of a large family. It's wonderful to work together in such great harmony. You could not ask for a better administrator or business office manager. They both dedicate their days to making sure everything runs smoothly.   It's enjoyable to get up in the mornings and look forward to your day."

Surgery Center of Reno
Type of facility: Ambulatory surgery center
What makes it a Best Place to Work: Surgery Center of Reno, a partner with Regent Surgical Health, provides some of the most competitive salaries on the West Coast, and the governing board guarantees 75 percent of hours to retain the best employees. Employees also often receive quarterly bonuses and participate in off-site staff appreciation parties. Employees attribute its enjoyable work environment to its outstanding management. The ASC's leaders treat all employees with respect and, according to Donna Hart, RN, PACU supervisor, "Our physician-governed Board of Directors is responsive to the sensitive and complicated needs of the employees. Their ongoing generosity, positive personal interactions and sincere interest in the daily operation leave you with a feeling that you are appreciated and valued. The physicians convey their trust and assurance in our nursing judgments and respect our assessments and expertise." Brian Dugan, an employee in the ASC's insurance verification and authorization department, agrees: "We have a very professional atmosphere and extremely clean facility. We do everything possible to make the patient's visit at SCOR as comfortable as possible, from registration to helping understand how insurance benefits work to top-notch clinical and nursing care." SCOR's staff, physicians and administrator, Anne Roberts, RN, all play key roles in creating a positive environment that is focused on patient safety and care, making the ASC a great place for patients and employees, according to employees of the center.

Surgical Care Affiliates (Birmingham, Ala.)
Type of facility: Healthcare company
What makes it a Best Place to Work: Surgical Care Affiliates, which operates a network of 129 ASCs and surgical hospitals across the country with an employee base of around 3,700, has spent the past two years focusing on improving and developing a value-driven culture at its centers. The company received surprising results from a survey of SCA's leaders take two years ago, wherein 80 percent said they felt they would be better off leaving the company and operating on their own — a message echoed by the company's physicians. The company took the opportunity to make significant changes to its operations and worked on building a defined culture. CEO Andrew Hayek and other SCA leaders worked with employees across the country to democratically select the company's core values: clinical quality, integrity, teamwork and service excellence. SCA also inverted its power structure and explicitly stated that the corporate office would work on behalf of its centers and hospitals. Management then asked leaders to decide if they could work within the culture and began recruiting new leaders who could fit the culture. SCA has seen many benefits from making such a dramatic change to operations. Employee pride in SCA increased 50 percent in one year, and physician satisfaction increased 38 percent. The company will also recognize 36 Value Leaders this year —those who exemplify one or more of the company's values — at its annual meeting. Financial benefits have also accrued since adopting this value-based system; SCA turned a decline of 8-10 percent EBITDA into an 8-10 percent growth.

Texas Children's Hospital (Houston)
Type of facility: Hospital/health system
What makes it a Best Place to Work: Texas Children's Hospital is recognized by U.S. News & World Report as one of the top 10 children's hospitals in the country. The dedication of the hospital's 7,000 employees has helped it to succeed in patient care. "Our employees, representing every area of the organization, are the heart and soul of Texas Children's, as we strive for continued excellence today and in the years to come," says Mark A. Wallace, president and CEO of 456-bed hospital. The hospital offers benefits including free employee parking, healthcare coverage, time off, flexible scheduling, life insurance policies and a business casual environment. Texas Children's was ranked as the top Best Place to Work in Houston among companies with more than 500 employees by the Houston Business Journal in 2009. Criteria for the award are based solely on employee feedback, measuring factors such as employee satisfaction, teamwork and leadership trust.

Texas Health Harris Methodist Hospital Southlake (Southlake, Texas)
Type of facility: Hospital/health system
What makes it a Best Place to Work: Texas Health Harris Methodist Hospital Southlake is physician-owned, acute-care hospital that has routinely demonstrated its dedication to both patients and employees. Following a philosophy of compassion, healing, oneness, integrity, commitment and excellence (CHOICE), the hospital has a nearly 80-year tradition of providing premier clinical services. It was awarded five-star recognition from HealthGrades for total knee replacement. Based on data submitted to the Surgical Care Improvement Project, which measures quality improvement data related to surgical complication rates, the hospital scored 100 percent in all but one area (in which it scored 90 percent). This Texas hospital has been recognized multiple times as one of the Best Places to Work in the state by Texas Monthly magazine. Internal surveys show that 97 percent of staff and physicians believe that Texas Health Harris Methodist is the best place they have ever worked. To achieve these ratings, the hospital has built a culture based on teamwork, based on its history of physician ownership. The hospital honors a staff member every month and then names one as the Employee of the Year.

Texas Institute for Surgery at Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital (Dallas)
Type of facility: Hospital/health system
What makes it a Best Place to Work: This surgical hospital is a joint partnership between area surgeons and Presbyterian Hospital of Dallas and includes 122 full-time employees. The hospital emphasizes continuing education both in-house and beyond, providing $500 per employee every other year towards training at conferences or seminars outside of Dallas. TIS also helps employees pursuing education with tuition reimbursement and flexible scheduling to accommodate their needs. TIS also encourages interdepartmental working relationships through outside-of-work events and teambuilding exercises. Employees can participate in events for Hospital Week and other holidays as well as annual picnics.

TriHealth (Cincinnati)
Type of facility: Hospital/health system
What makes it a Best Place to Work: This two-hospital integrated health delivery system serves the greater Cincinnati area. It has made Working Mother's 100 Best Companies five times, including in 2009, for its commitment to family-friendly benefits. Working Mother cited its summer camp program for employees' children that offer cooking, sports and science. The National Association for Female Executives also named TriHealth as one of the "Top 10 Nonprofit Companies for Executive Women," an award that recognizes companies whose policies encourage women's advancement and whose numbers at the highest levels of leadership demonstrate that commitment.

TriMedx (Indianapolis)
Type of company: Healthcare company
What makes it a Best Place to Work: TriMedx offers comprehensive medical equipment management to simplify the complex world of healthcare. Founded in 1998, the organization started as a small clinical engineering department and now serves more than 500 customers across the country. TriMedx's culture is driven by six core values — service to the poor, wisdom, dedication, creativity, respect and integrity. In addition to helping the local community with charitable events and mission projects, in 2004, the company started TriMedx Foundation to support medical missions around the world by collecting, repairing and redeploying life-saving medical equipment. As a result of its efforts, one million people in third-world countries now have access to advanced healthcare, according to Celeste Stanley, marketing and PR manager for TriMedX. The TriMedx central office offers a business casual environment with flexible schedules. According to Ms. Stanley, the office is a warm, family-friendly atmosphere, where laughter is often heard and associates bring children and grandchildren to visit. "Working at TriMedx is like being part of one big family. No matter where associates are located across the country, everyone is connected by XStream, the company intranet. XStream features a radio station, WTMX, with weekly interviews and podcasts. It also includes an online blog forum which keeps technicians connected, sharing technology updates, tips and trends (as well as the latest pictures of those grandkids)," she says.

University Medical Center (Tucson, Ariz.)
Type of facility: Hospital/health system
What makes it a Best Place to Work: University Medical Center is a teaching hospital located at Arizona Health Sciences Center, adjacent to The University of Arizona. The proximity of the colleges of medicine and nursing allows UMC to stand on the cutting-edge of medical innovations. Focus on advancing treatments has earned it recognition from U.S. News & World Report, which in 2009 ranked UMC's kidney program among the best in the country. UMC has also developed a culture of PRIDE — Personal responsibility, Respect for self and others, Innovation through teamwork, Dedication to caring and Excellence in customer service. All applicants and new UMC employees much sign off on these values before joining the hospital. Each of the core values highlight areas of competence, communication and teambuilding skills essential to making UMC one of the best in the nation. Dedication to these values has earned UMC two Workplace Excellence Awards for Greater Tucson, including Best Practices in 2008 and Innovative Business Solutions in 2009. The hospital has been nominated for 2010.

University of Florida Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine Institute (Gainesville, Fla.)
Type of facility: Hospital/health system
What makes it a Best Place to Work: The UFL Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine Institute is part of the oldest sports medicine program in Florida. The state-of-the-art Institute opened in 2005 and is adjacent to an ambulatory surgery center. Its average length of employment is over 10 years for clinical positions and over 12 years for clerical positions. This staff loyalty has resulted in no turnover and waiting lists of more than 50 applicants for openings. Staff members receive generous benefit packages, including full tuition assistance, paid sick leave, healthcare coverage and 401(k) benefits. "This is truly a unique organization with complex organizational missions, which range from educating the next generation of healthcare professionals to performing innovative research to providing timely, high-quality care," says Leslie Jebson, the Institute's executive director. "The employee engagement is phenomenal, with no turnover." Mr. Jebson also notes employee loyalty has helped the Institute achieve great success and growth, with patients coming from all across Florida.

University of Michigan Health System (Ann Arbor, Mich.)
Type of facility: Hospital/ health system
What makes it a Best Place to Work: The U-M campus includes University Hospital, C.S. Mott Children's Hospital, Women's Hospital, 120 outpatient clinics and 30 health centers, staffed by 18,500 employees. Well-known for its top performance in best hospital contests such as U.S. News & World Report's Honor Roll, in 2009, it also was the highest-ranking healthcare organization on the Detroit Free Press' list of "Top Workplaces 2009." Among the benefits that make the University of Michigan stand out are a tax-deferred retirement annuity plan with 2:1 matching, 100 percent tax-deferred contributions, and 100 percent immediate vesting. Employees also have access to the university's golf course, tennis center and on-campus recreational fitness centers, with on-site exercise classes, as well as child care, care for aging parents, and child development and behavior resources available.

The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center (Houston)
Type of facility: Hospital/health system
What makes it a Best Place to Work: As one of the largest cancer centers in the world, M.D. Anderson employs over 17,000 people and covers 25 buildings in the Houston and central Texas area. The hospital leads the country in cancer treatment and education of future physicians. U.S. News & World Report named it as the number one cancer hospital in the country in 2009. Recognizing that its employees are part of an exceptional team of leading physicians, researchers and educators, the hospital offers tuition reimbursement and many continuing education programs. M.D. Anderson has been named as one of the best workplaces for post-doctoral fellows by Scientist magazine and is a RetirementJobs.com Age-Friendly Certified Employer, meaning the hospital maintains policies, programs and practices that encourage employment of people over the age of 50. Employees at M.D. Anderson receive benefits including performance rewards, healthcare coverage, flexible work schedules day care, public transportation and other programs promoting a work/life balance.

University of Texas Medical Branch (Galveston, Texas)
Type of facility: Hospital/health system
What makes it a Best Place to Work: Following Hurricane Ike in 2008, UTMB worked to bring services back on-line, to get students back into class and to improve working conditions not only for current staff members but for those in the community affected by the storm. Despite a difficult decision to lay off 3,000 staff members, UTMB hosted several "reverse" job fairs to find work for affected staff and has instituted a policy to rehire laid-off workers who qualify for an opening in the system. The health system also put in place programs with Catholic Charities to collect donations for UTMB families hit hard by the storm and created an online site where employees could swap items, such as clothing and furniture, and skills, such as construction and painting, to help other employees who need help to get back into their homes. UTMB's innovation during a crisis has accelerated its growth, with an increase in applicants at both the professional and academic level. The system's 10,883 employees also have ranked UTMB highly, with 96 percent saying they are proud to work for the health system, according to UTMB's YOU COUNT! Employee Satisfaction Survey.

University of Washington Medical Center (Seattle)
Type of facility: Hospital/health system
What makes it a Best Place to Work: UW Medical Center fosters a culture of innovation and new discoveries. The National Institutes of Health named it as one of the top three facilities for biomedical research, and physicians at the hospital have pioneered such advancements as long-term kidney dialysis, Doppler ultrasound and new diagnostics for heart disease. UW Medical Center is also routinely recognized by U.S. News & World Report as one of the best hospitals in America, and in 2009, its rehabilitation department was ranked third in the country. The hospital was also the first in the country to receive Magnet distinction for nursing from the ANCC. UW Medical Center provides an environment where its employees can balance work and life, while still maintaining high-quality patient care. The hospital offers flexible working schedules as well as lactation stations for working, breastfeeding mothers. Other work/life benefits available are child care, elder care assistance and resources for parents of teenagers. Employees also receive discounts at local art and cultural spots as well as competitive medical and dental benefits, discounts for transportation, a retirement plan and employee wellness programs.

Vanderbilt University Medical Center (Nashville, Tenn.)
Type of facility: Hospital/ health system
What makes it a Best Place to work: The Vanderbilt campus includes 600-bed Vanderbilt University Hospital, Monroe Carell Jr. Children's Hospital, an outpatient clinic, a cancer center, a psychiatric hospital and a rehabilitation hospital. In addition to being named one of the Leapfrog Group's top 45 hospitals for 2009, and Thomson Reuters Healthcare's 100 Top Hospitals in each of the past 10 years, the medical center and the university made Fortune's 100 Best Places to Work list for 2009, with a nod to the university's tuition program, which offers a 70 percent college tuition subsidy to the dependents of employees who have been there at least five years. In addition to general health and retirement benefits, the university offers access to fitness facilities, a free wellness report, a walking club and even pet insurance. There are summer camps for children, domestic partner benefits, and free bus rides to work.

Virginia Commonwealth University Health System (Richmond, Va.)
Type of facility: Hospital/health system
What makes it a Best Place to Work: VCU Health System is one of the nation's leading academic medical centers and includes the 780-bed MCV Hospitals and outpatient clinics, MCV Physicians — a 600-physician-faculty group practice — and the health sciences schools of Virginia Commonwealth University. This academic medical facility has long been recognized as one of the premier workplaces in the healthcare industry. U.S. News & World Report has ranked VCU Health System as one of America's best hospitals for three years in a row, and it was one of only two Virginia hospitals to be included in Thomson Reuter's Top 100 Hospitals in America list. Working Mother magazine and the National Association of Female Executives have both named VCU Health System as one of the best places for women to work in the country. In 2009, the Greater Richmond Chamber of Commerce named the health system the top company in the area for workforce development. VCU Health System offers competitive benefits for its 7,500 employees, including healthcare coverage, child and adult day care and a retirement plan. The system has gone beyond its benefits package to support its employees and members of its community. In 2007, VCU Health System set up the Center for Workforce Excellence, which worked with and identified individuals who were or could be on public assistance and trained them as well as tracked them through a four-year degree program at the university. VCU Health System supports the goal of continuing education with investments in employee and employee dependents' tuition.

West Bloomfield Surgery Center (West Bloomfield, Mich.)
Type of facility: Ambulatory surgery center
What makes it a Best Place to Work: WBSC is a freestanding, physician-owned, multi-specialty ASC in the metro Detroit area. The center opened in 2005 and most employees have been with the center for an average of three years, with turnover under three percent. Most of the turnover has been due to promotion within the company, according to Anne Hargrave-Thomas, WBSC's CEO. The ASC has scored well on National Surgical Hospitals' yearly employee satisfaction survey and moved from twelfth to second overall for all NSH facilities. WBSC offers its employees a variety of benefits including healthcare coverage, tuition reimbursement, reimbursement for conferences, 401(k) and paid time-off. The ASC also sponsors yearly company picnics and holiday parties. WBSC has an open-door policy for staff, allowing employees to come in with suggestions and comments to improve the ASC. "WBSC cares passionately about its employees, patients, physicians and the community it serves," Ms. Hargrave-Thomas says. "The leadership team really understands how important staff members are to the facility." Because of this, supervisors and staff members are always willing to lend a hand to improve the ASC.

Winchester Hospital (Winchester, Mass.)
Type of facility: Hospital/healthcare system
What makes it a Best Place to Work: Winchester Hospital has been recognized for seven years as one of the best places to work in Massachusetts by the Boston Business Journal, rating number one in each of the last two years. The hospital, founded in 1912, currently employs 2,633 full-time and part-time staff members. Additionally, 740 volunteers donate over 58,000 hours annually. Winchester is also a Magnet hospital, recognized for excellence in nursing. According to the hospital's Web site, employees are driven by the desire to be the best, and Winchester supports staff members to grow and improve during their time at the hospital. "I have always recognized that the employees of Winchester Hospital are our most valuable asset," says Dale Lodge, president and CEO of Winchester.

Woodwinds Health Campus (Woodbury, Minn.)
Type of facility: Hospital/health system
What makes it a Best Place to Work: Woodwinds Health has been recognized as one of the most innovative hospitals in Minnesota and offers a wide variety of career opportunities. The hospital is a collaboration between HealthEast Care System and Children's Hospitals and Clinic, and it currently reports a nurse vacancy rate of less than 1 percent and turnover of 1.56 percent. Woodwinds embraces reciprocity and empowerment and a healing environment for staff as well as patients. Employees receive a variety of benefits including healthcare coverage, loan repayment, paid time-off, a 401(k) plan, child-care discounts and health club discounts. The hospital also has a number of employee recognition programs, including its "One of the Best" Award, the Harry Atwood award given to the "One of the Best" Award winner who best exemplifies the hospital's goals and goal sharing. "Our passion comes from our leaders and staff, who came to Woodwinds to create the ultimate patient and employee experience," says Cindy Bultena, the executive leader of Woodwinds. As a result of this motivation, the Minnesota Hospital Association named Woodwinds one of the best hospitals to work for in the state for 2009.

Yale-New Haven Hospital (New Haven, Conn.)
Type of facility: Hospital/health system
What makes it a Best Place to Work: The primary teaching hospital for the Yale School of Medicine, this 944-bed tertiary referral center includes Smilow Cancer Hospital, Yale-New Haven Children's Hospital and the Yale-New Haven Psychiatric Hospital. It is the area's second largest employer and was ranked nineteenth overall in the nation on U.S. News & World Report's Honor Roll. With more than half of its employees women, the hospital offers family-friendly policies including flexible scheduling options, compressed workweeks, telecommuting and job-sharing. In addition to offering infertility and adoption assistance, an on-site daycare center and dependent college tuition loans, the hospital offers a college planning program to help with tuition planning, entrance exams and tuition assistance. For these and other reasons, it was named several times to Working Mother magazine's "100 Best Companies for Working Mothers" in recent years. It also was named one of the Top 30 Companies for Executive Women by the National Association of Female Executives, and one of 35 Great Places to Work by Essence magazine.