Supporting associates

PROVIDER/ASSOCIATE CARE TEAM PROGRAM LAUNCHES ACROSS ALL MINISTRY MARKETS

Each day, there is a possibility that an Ascension associate will be involved in, or in some way be emotionally impacted by, an unexpected patient outcome. Or be unable to stop the natural progression of a patient’s medical condition. Or encounter a form of workplace violence. Associates can receive help in those instances and other significant or difficult work-related experiences, confidentially and quickly.

PACT, which stands for Provider/ Associate Care Team, was developed in alignment with the principles of a culture of safety, high reliability and justice. PACT was founded in 2014 at Ascension Seton in Austin, Texas, as a performance improvement project, and other Ministry Markets have adopted similar PACT programs. Based on the success of these programs — and to serve as an additional resource alongside spiritual care services, Ascension’s Employee Assistance Program and other Ascension wellness programs — Ascension recently launched PACT across all Ministry Markets.

“The PACT program is a tangible example of living out our Service Commitments to Extend kindness,

Listen to understand, and Serve together to our own associates,” said Jennifer Darden, Senior Director, Ascension Risk Management. “There is comfort in knowing that when a difficult work-related experience occurs you don’t have to walk through it alone. Our workforce must be refilled after encountering a difficult work-related experience before they have anything left to give.” supporter is deployed and connects, confidentially, with the associate in need of emotional support.

More PACT peer supporters are always needed. To become a peer supporter an associate first completes a myLearning module and then a virtual or in-person training, which counts toward 2.5 hours of continuing education credits. Part of the in-person training includes the opportunity to practice psychological first-aid skills so supporters are ready to listen and provide emotional support immediately when needed. For more information about the program, search for PACT on the Good Day Ascension Intranet. To become a peer supporter, visit the PACT site or use the QR code below.

PACT peer supporters are associates who volunteer to support other associates. They have been trained in psychological first aid, are committed to privacy and confidentiality, and can provide a listening presence and emotional support. Once trained, peer supporters can be activated quickly. How it works: If a significant work-related event occurs, and the need for PACT peer support is identified, a request is made. This can be done by any associate. A PACT peer

Whether you or a colleague has had an especially difficult work-related experience or just need someone to talk to, PACT peer supporters can provide a listening presence, a safe space to share feelings and resources to help.