Successful internal program builds employee morale; reduces turnover. Washington Hospital Center, Washington, DC

The Washington Hospital Center in Washington, D.C. is an example of what good can happen when a health care institution commits to developing a first-class internal communications program. The hospital center created a program that includes one-on-one dialogue between supervisors and staff, "town hall meetings, newsletters, memos, intranet, employee recognition and special events." The program builds employee morale and reduces turnover. It also has increased the quality of care and attention that patients receive.