“We are delighted to be one of the systems recognized by the AMA,” said Stephen R.T. Evans, MD, Executive Vice President, Medical Affairs and Chief Medical Officer at MedStar Health. “Well before the pandemic, we recognized that our clinical caregivers – physicians, nurses, therapists, all team members – are irreplaceable. We view wellbeing for our associates and physicians as key to how we care for the community.”
Daniel Marchalik, MD, Director of Physician Wellbeing at MedStar Health, noted that creating a wellbeing culture takes focused effort, resources and commitment from many. “In the past three years, we have trained more than 100 associates to lead Care for the Caregiver sessions for our teams. We have dedicated psychologists and resilience coaches. We have a research arm that continues to explore and trial best practices. We are changing perspectives, so that wellbeing is seen as the basis of our practice.”
Additional wellbeing programs at MedStar Health include “Scrub In,” a wellbeing podcast hosted by MedStar Health’s Director of Nursing Wellness, Crystal Morales, MS, RN, concierge medical appointments and mental health services, Wellness Rounds, quarterly Wellbeing Advocate awards and robust wellbeing programs offered through Human Resources. “We bring wellbeing to our teams on the units where they are working,” said Morales. “It allows us to be present and bring support when it is needed.”
The AMA Joy in Medicine distinction was given to 44 systems nationwide that demonstrated competencies in commitment, assessment, leadership, efficiency of practice environment, teamwork, and support.
Media Contact
Marianne Worley
410-772-6661
202-531-1508 (cell)
marianne.worley@medstar.net
Brendan McNamara
410-772-6557
202-394-2430 (cell)
brendan.t.mcnamara@medstar.net