Hospital officials concerned about employee morale

Winneshiek Medical Center Acting Chief Administrative Officer Dave Rooney says one message has come out loud and clear from community meetings held by hospital officials--the public is concerned about what it sees as low employee morale at the hospital.

So hospital officials say they're taking immediate action.  Four focus groups of ten members each have been set up to gather input.  "Non-administrative facilitators" will report back shortly to hospital officials.

Rooney says three major issues are salaries and benefits; employee recognition and the need for more communication.

Hospital board members endorsed the steps.  Board member Arlene Houlihan noted "there is unrest" at the hospital because of recent departures.  Board member Sherry Gribble urged hospital officials to find ways for "an immediate win" for employees asking for changes.  Said Gribble, "There is some urgency to this."