Hospital system combats workforce isolation, loneliness

In an American Hospital Association blog article, Margo Karsten, PhD, RN, president of Banner Health’s Western Region, describes her efforts to combat workforce isolation and loneliness. Karsten started 30-minute virtual sessions at the Phoenix, Ariz.-based health system to create a culture where team members can be vulnerable and know their colleagues care about them. The first session focused on life’s struggles, and Karsten shared her story to create a safe space for attendees to share their own. At the session’s end, Karsten provided resources and helpful strategies. Leaders interested in starting similar sessions should be willing to share their struggles, keep meetings focused and allow others to adapt meetings to reach more people. (AHA blog article, 11/22/24)