Earlier this spring, the readers of 417 Magazine named CoxHealth as ‘Best Place to Work’ in southwest Missouri - for the second year in a row.

“This recognition proves yet again that CoxHealth has the best team and we are honored and humbled by your votes recognizing CoxHealth as the employer of choice,” says Andy Hedgpeth, vice president of Human Resources.

To celebrate the recognition, all employees received 1,800 points deposited into their Choice Rewards accounts.

Hedgpeth says the award reflects what has been a transformational year for CoxHealth.

“A lot of pieces we have added over time are now creating a whole,” he says.

Hedgpeth says focusing on retention, recognition and listening to employees better than ever is paying off.

The 2017 numbers tell the tale:

· 92 percent retention rate of first-year nurses, up from 78 the year before.
· An increase in entry-level wages and a plan to continue positive adjustments.
· 566 nurses hired in 2017.
· A 12 percent increase in new hires.
More than 3,000 people hired from outside the organization, more than ever before.

“CoxHealth is a destination employer, and that hasn’t always been the case for us,” Hedgpeth says.

One driver of that change: increased employee engagement. Groups like the Nursing Leadership Council, the Employee Communication Council, Senior Cabinet, Young Professionals and our physician councils are reinforcing the passion for the work we do.

“It is an honor to be a best place to work and it is a responsibility to make sure our actions continue to fulfill what the award symbolizes,” Hedgpeth says. “People are fiercely proud to work here. I know I am."

Award reflects a transformational year at CoxHealth