Top workplaces, large: 5. St. Rose Dominican Hospitals

Listening to employees and rewarding them for their dedication is key to St. Rose Dominican Hospitals’ ranking as a top workplace in Las Vegas, hospital officials say.

The not-for-profit health care provider ranked No. 5 in the large company category in the annual survey.

“We’re very honored and delighted to be included again,” says Linda Gerstenberger, St. Rose’s vice president of human resources. “Our employees are very excited to be recognized, and it gives them pride when they come to work.”

St. Rose is known for taking care of its employees.

Benefits include discounted rates on day care centers and bonuses for employees for every successful referral they make to the hospital for hard-to-fill positions.

Employees are recognized for clinical excellence and patient care. The Value in Action Awards given at each of the three hospitals has winners featured at an annual employee appreciation dinner. The top winner receives a trophy and financial award.

At the San Martin campus, the hospital gives out Hats Off awards. Patients, families and other employees who write notes about extraordinary service can lead to the president presenting the employee with a cake, balloon and letter of commendation.

In its Star Performer program, St. Rose honors employees on a monthly basis for exemplifying the hospital’s five core values. The winners receive dinner and a show.

“I think what makes us a great workplace is the recognition rewards we provide,” Gerstenberger says. “Our Star performers are nominated by their peers. They receive a pin, and they are so proud.”

Gerstenberger says it’s the hospital’s goal to be considered the employer of choice when people are considering moving to Las Vegas to work in the health care field. Applicants look at what other employees think of their workplace and the designation helps in that marketing, she says.

“My advice to companies is to engage with their employees, listen to them, and reward and recognize them,” Gerstenberger says.

But it’s the work and colleagues that make the job for many hospital employees.

“I feel I can continually grow in the field because the people I work with motivate and encourage me,” one employee says. “It’s not only a wonderful place to work, but it has become a second family to me.”

One employee cited the interaction with the public and the opportunity to make a difference in someone’s life by listening to them and directing them to the help they need.

“I feel we truly care about our patients and our community,” one employee says. “We have done several food/water/clothing drives for the community. This is what St. Rose is all about — compassion for those who do not have the means to support themselves. I am proud to be associated with our hospitals.”