As one of the largest health systems in the country, we believe in leading by example, which is why we consistently evaluate processes and implement innovative solutions to ensure our caregivers feel safe when they’re at work. Some instances include our updated mask policy, K9 hospital safety program and zero-tolerance policy for workplace discrimination.

Universal masking

Since the spring of 2020, our hospitals, emergency rooms, urgent care centers and clinics have reduced respiratory illness exposure risk by requiring patients, caregivers and visitors to mask.

Though many states no longer require masking in health care facilities, the Department of Health still recommends masks for patients, health care providers and visitors. To ensure the highest level of safety at our facilities, Providence will continue following universal masking in all patient care spaces, and during all patient care and visitor interactions.

Keeping caregivers safe with K9s

All over the country, hospitals have seen a significant decrease in workplace violence by adding K9 programs to their security teams. K9 teams consist of a K9 handler and a canine partner that work together to de-escalate potentially violent situations with their presence alone.

Providence has been running a K9 hospital safety pilot program at four Providence facilities in Alaska and Eastern Washington—and soon, Providence St. Peter and Centralia hospitals will welcome four-legged caregivers to their security teams, as well.

The pilot program proved to be a great success, with Providence Alaska Medical Center estimating their workplace violence decreased by 50% during the first year. In Spokane, Providence facilities with K9 security teams have seen a 30% drop in violence.

Addressing implicit bias

Providence is committed to building and maintaining and inclusive workplace where individual experiences, culture and perspectives are celebrated. We have a zero-tolerance policy for behavior that perpetuates bias or stereotypes.

We also offer implicit bias training courses for caregivers and core leaders, which provides participants with an understanding of different biases that can occur in the workplace. The session increases participants’ ability to recognize common types of bias and microaggressions and apply tactics to respond to biased behavior from patients and colleagues.

Offering domestic violence resources

Our desire to protect our caregivers from harm also extends outside the walls of our care facilities.

Caregivers have access to domestic violence resources through our Caregiver Assistance Program, powered by Optum.

Providing Suicide Prevention Training for caregivers

Caregivers have access to Emotionally Connect, Partner and Respond (ECPR), an on-demand learning module to help support others who may be experiencing mental health concerns, in the workplace and beyond.

The safety, health and well-being of our caregivers is a top priority for us. If you’d like to work at a place that prioritizes you, search all roles.