Outer Space and (Earthly) Workspace

As we approach the observance of the 50^th anniversary of the first moon landing on July 20, many of us have enjoyed recent news coverage of the event. We have either learned about or recalled our memories of the Apollo 11 crew, their magnificent journey and Neil Armstrong’s “one step for [a] man, one giant leap for mankind.”

The U.S. space program developed many innovations that have been adapted for medical, industrial and commercial use. From a healthcare perspective, NASA’s website notes that the digital imaging technology developed to enhance images of the moon provided the foundation for MRIs, CT scans, radiography and other imaging resources that are now essential tools in medical diagnosis and treatment. I hope you have an opportunity this month to learn more about the lunar landing and the technologies that evolved from our country’s space explorations – and maybe even take time to reflect on the beauty of the moon in the night sky.  

Meanwhile, back to “planet Earth,” Tennessee and Covenant Health – it’s my pleasure to announce that our health system has once again received recognition as an excellent employer from Forbes. The national business publication named Covenant Health as a “Best Employer in Tennessee” in its first published state rankings of employers. We are one of 73 organizations and one of 12 in the healthcare industry to make the 2019 state list.  

The designation marks the fifth time Forbes has named Covenant Health to one of its “Best Employer” lists in the past four years. We were named one of Forbes’ “Best Employers for Diversity” and “Best Employers for Women” in 2018, and we were included in “America’s Best Employers” lists for 2016 and 2017. It’s important to note that Covenant Health does not submit applications or nominations for the Forbes lists, which are based on anonymous surveys of employees in our area. This makes the Forbes designations particularly gratifying. 

The Forbes recognition follows Covenant Health’s recent inclusion in a list of the “Top 150 Places to Work in Healthcare” compiled by Becker’s, a national publication for healthcare industry leaders. The annual list highlights U.S. hospitals, health systems and healthcare companies that promote diversity within the workforce, employee engagement and professional growth. Covenant Health has made the list for two years in a row.

According to Becker’s, the organizations on the list “offer benefits and opportunities for employees to build successful careers above and beyond the average healthcare provider or company; they encourage professional development and promote leadership from within. Many offer unique wellness and personal benefits to ensure employees strike a positive work/life balance.”

As the largest employer in our area, Covenant Health’s goals are to provide excellent employment and career development opportunities, and a positive and meaningful work environment. I am very proud to be part of a health system that is recognized by area employees and respected national publications for our achievements in accomplishing these goals.