Training that creates a healthy environment for healing

In a world that is constantly evolving, the role of environmental services has never been more critical as we are faced with increasing environmental challenges. The men and women who show up to work each day to make up our Environmental Services (EVS) department, are dedicated to ensuring that our patients and staff remain safe by creating a healthy, clean environment to work and heal.

To effectively tackle the issues they face, EVS employees require more than just passion and dedication – they need comprehensive training. “The EVS team is on the front line of fighting hospital-acquired infections while ensuring patients have a clean and safe environment during their healing journey,” said Charlie Stillings, System Associate Vice President for Environment Services and Linen Management.

“At Baptist Health, patient safety and employee satisfaction are among our top priorities,” said Charlie. “We make an intentional investment to provide our employees with the education they need to do their job, and to understand why their role is essential in a patient’s journey to recovery. Through this training, we have seen a 10% increase in our Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems (HCAHPS) score and a 97% retention rate in our employees.”

Through the Center for Health, Environment, and Safety Training (CHEST), every EVS employee at Baptist Health receives a solid foundation of knowledge from understanding environmental regulations to mastering waste management techniques. CHEST training goes beyond theory, offering practical skills that are directly applicable to real-world situations, allowing the hands-on experience through CHEST to equip employees with the confidence and competence needed to address environmental challenges head-on.

“The practical aspect this training provides is invaluable,” said Charlie. “Without knowing it, philanthropic donors are helping to bridge the gap between theory and practice, preparing our employees to navigate the complexities of their work with ease.”

 Generosity from Baptist Health Foundation supporters allow the EVS department to stay up to date on the latest developments and practices, recognize the importance of collaboration and communication, and instill a purpose and pride in EVS employees and the impact of their work on the world around them.