Culture is defined as the thoughts, beliefs, values, practice and social behavior of a particular group of people. Hence to change or enhance a culture requires working with people; changing beliefs, the work experience, affecting actions and behaviors, and making a change in how people go about their daily work.
Much has been written about culture and culture change in long-term care. Research has demonstrated organizational success when implementing culture change initiatives, including decreased use of restraints, pressure ulcers, hospitalizations, health-related and quality of life deficiencies. A change in the culture has been shown to alter staff attitudes about those for whom they care, and increase both their satisfaction and retention.
The North Carolina Culture Change Coalition knows this and for decades has been on a mission to improve outcomes for those who live and work in long-term care. Reportedly the first Coalition in the country, they formed in 1986 and have a large consortium of tireless professionals who contribute countless hours to further this quest.
The North Carolina Culture Change Coalition believes that organizational culture drives quality care, compliance, resident, family and staff satisfaction and staff retention. They also recognize that leadership plays a major role and is ultimately responsible for the culture. The Coalition has organized a number of conferences around the state of North Carolina to discuss, explore and provide mechanisms for implementing change. I am privileged to be a contributor to this endeavor.
The programs will be offered in March and April. Click HERE for information regarding the conference, including dates and locations. If you are interested in exploring how to make positive change in your organization, we welcome you to attend!
Dementia Care Expertise for Health Care Providers 