Evolving the Culture: A Shared Reading Program as a Tool for Change

The Challenge of Changing Culture in Healthcare

Evolving the culture is difficult in any organization, but it’s a particular challenge in health care where change comes slowly, if at all. Healthcare is an industry that is deeply rooted in tradition and habit, and it can be resistant to change.

A Shared Reading Program as a Tool for Influencing Culture

At Novant Health, a North Carolina-based network of 15 medical centers, we have found a powerful and perhaps unexpected tool for influencing our culture: a shared reading program. Our program, which was launched in 2014, is designed to promote shared understanding, empathy, and compassion among our team members.

How the Program Works

The program is simple: every quarter, our organization selects a book that aligns with our values and mission. Each employee is encouraged to read the book, reflect on its themes and messages, and discuss them with colleagues. The program is voluntary, but attendance at book club meetings is high, and many employees have reported that it has helped them better understand one another and their roles in the organization.

Results and Outcomes

The impact of the program has been significant. Our culture has become more collaborative and less siloed, with team members from different departments and levels working together more effectively. We have seen improved communication, increased empathy, and a greater sense of connection among employees. The program has also helped to reduce turnover and improve patient satisfaction.

Conclusion

Our experience suggests that a shared reading program can be a powerful tool for influencing culture in a healthcare organization. By encouraging employees to come together to discuss a book and its themes, we have created a sense of community and a shared understanding that has improved our work and our relationships with one another. We hope that our experience will inspire other healthcare organizations to consider using a similar approach to promote positive change.

FAQs

Q: Is the program mandatory?

A: No, the program is voluntary, but attendance at book club meetings is high.

Q: What kind of books are selected for the program?

A: We select books that align with our values and mission, such as leadership, empathy, and teamwork.

Q: How has the program affected patient care?

A: We have seen improved patient satisfaction and more collaborative care as a result of the program.

Q: Is the program limited to Novant Health employees?

A: No, the program is open to all employees, regardless of their role or department.