Bon Secours Mercy Health (BSMH) was recently presented with the first annual Pathways Pioneer award from Guild Education, an education benefits company, in recognition of BSMH’s commitment to creating a culture of career growth within the health system. The award was presented at the Guild Opportunity Summit on Oct. 17, 2023.
“BSMH has set a shining example of how to build organizational systems that support working learners in their career journeys,” said Hanna Patterson, senior vice president of healthcare and applied learning at Guild. “They were our first partner in the health care space and have blazed a trail of innovation and success in making economic mobility a reality for their employees.”
BSMH enhanced its professional growth program in 2022 with the launch of an education benefits program that has more than 4,500 employees currently pursuing a degree or certification program, and more than 500 who have graduated because of BSMH’s education benefits.
“This recognition is the heart of what our health system is about; tapping into the talents and dedication of our employees and amplifying the dignifying and healing power of the work we do for patients,” said Allan Calonge, chief people officer of core operations, Bon Secours Mercy Health. “To be considered among some of the largest employers in the country for this award, including Walmart, Chipotle and JP Morgan Chase, speaks volumes about our commitment to growth in our workforce.”
In an ongoing effort to grow top talent for clinical roles, BSMH will introduce additional education programs in 2024, designed to best meet patient care needs.
The current education program provides access to full tuition assistance (100% tuition coverage) and tuition reimbursement (up to $10,000 per year) for clinical career pathways, including programs in:
· Nursing
· Nursing support
· Medical assisting
· Laboratory
· Respiratory
In 2024, associates will be able to pursue four new clinical career pathways – all with tuition fully covered by BSMH. The expanded pathways include:
· Pharmacy technician
· Surgical technology
· Imaging
· Sterile processing
The health system has an Internal Mobility Team that offers guidance in a variety of areas, including selecting an education program, support for hands on learning and applying for new jobs within the organization.
