At UConn Health, the well-being of our dedicated employees is a priority. Our recent Well-Being Index assessments and listening sessions have reinforced the need for accessible, proactive well-being resources to support our workforce.
The Well-Being Index, developed by Mayo Clinic researchers, is a confidential self-assessment tool that helps measure six dimensions of well-being and distress in just 7 to 9 questions. This tool empowers you to:
- Gain personalized insights into your well-being
- Compare your results against national benchmarks
- Track progress over time through repeated assessments
- Access tailored resources to enhance your well-being
UConn Health Well-Being Index: 2024
Through the Well-Being Index, we’ve gathered valuable insights to guide meaningful workplace wellness initiatives. From June to December 2024, 1,037 employees across various roles participated in the assessment, with 503 reassessments to track progress.
From June to December 2024, 1,037 employees across various roles participated in the assessment, with 503 reassessments to track progress.
Overall Participation
- Total Participants: 1,037
- Reassessments: 503
- Total Assessments: 1,540
Breakdown by Professional Group
- Nurses: 181 participants, 77 reassessments
- Physicians: 108 participants, 45 reassessments
- Advanced Practice Providers: 61 participants, 37 reassessments
- Employees (General): 687 participants, 344 reassessments
Assessment Results: Wellness by Populations
This chart depicts the distribution of well-being levels across different professional groups, ranging from ‘Distressed’ to ‘Thriving.’
Participants who fall into the distressed and struggling categories face an increased risk of adverse outcomes. Understanding these trends allows us to develop targeted support initiatives.
Well-Being Insights by Role
Feedback from Advanced Practice Providers
- Meaningful aspects of the job
– Direct patient care (60%)
– Relationships with coworkers and sense of community at UConn Health
– Receiving recognition and positive feedback - Areas of improvement
– Reduce non-provider tasks to improve workflow and provider efficiency
– Increase communication with leadership
– Community events dedicated to wellness and networking
– Competitive pay and retention - Support after adverse events
– The ability to immediately step away
– Dedicated place that is quiet to decompress and reflect
– Follow up with a respected peer or peer support group
- Meaningful aspects of the job
Feedback from Employees
- Increased Flexibility/Hybrid Work Schedule
The need for options/opportunities for remote workdays and flexible scheduling. - Leadership Training
The need for training programs aimed at enhancing the skills and effectiveness of supervisors, managers, and directors. - Communication and Accountability
The need for enhanced communication between staff and leadership to foster trust, ensure transparency, and promote autonomy. - Employee Well-being
The need for development of a comprehensive, organization-wide wellness program and support systems for staff. - Compensation
A factor in employee satisfaction and retention.
- Increased Flexibility/Hybrid Work Schedule
Feedback from Nurses
- Meaningful Aspects of the Job:
– Majority of nurses feel patient care and relationships are most meaningful.
– Other key factors: collaboration with team & colleagues, job satisfaction and meaningful work, education and mentoring, and acknowledgment and appreciation - Areas for Improvement:
– Workplace safety
– Team building for collaboration
– Recognition & appreciation
– Scheduling flexibility
– Professional development
– On-site wellness events and Wellness Center access
– Interdisciplinary communication - After stressful events at work, top 3 responses
– Ability to step away for a short period of time
– Utilize a designated space to recover and re-compose.
– A respected peer to discuss the event with.
- Meaningful Aspects of the Job:
Feedback from Physicians
- Meaningful Aspects of the Job
Over 70% of physicians report that providing patient care and being involved in teaching / medical education are the most meaningful aspects of their job. - Areas for Improvement
High burden of administrative tasks and opportunities for better work-life integration and colleague connection were the top suggestions for improvement. - After stressful events at work, top 3 responses
Many physicians prefer to discuss adverse events with a trusted colleague to receive support following a difficult experience at work.
- Meaningful Aspects of the Job
What's Next
Based on the Well-Being Index findings, the Wellness Committee will continue collaborating across the organization and partnering with key stakeholders to advance initiatives that support our workforce. Including:
- Expanding access to wellness programs & events that promote mental and physical well-being.
- Enhancing peer support & resilience – building programs to ensure employees have the resources they need during challenging times.
These efforts will evolve based on ongoing feedback, ensuring a workplace that prioritizes well-being for all.
Take Action: Your Well-Being Matters
- Stay Informed – Check this page for ongoing wellness initiatives.
- Join the Conversation – Attend upcoming listening sessions to share feedback.
- Prioritize Your Well-Being – Use UConn Health’s wellness resources.
Your participation in the Well-Being Index has helped shape a healthier, more supportive workplace. Thank you for making your voice heard!