We recently wrapped up our second Project ECHO®: How to Operate with Meaningful Engagement for Staff Stability (HOMESS), developed for Nursing Homes and Skilled that struggle with staffing shortage and retention challenges. HOMESS is the second Project ECHO® we’ve completed this year. 
About 15 individuals joined each session representing centers in Massachusetts, Maine, New Hampshire, and Rhode Island. Margie McLaughlin, Hugh Hall, and Denise Boudreau-Scott facilitated discussion and presented on topics around the five management principles from Susan Eaton’s work. Sessions covered management, HR policies, valuing staff, recruitment, and organizational goals.
Centers that participated reported they would implement several of the following changes in their practice, such as:
- Scheduling regular meetings with new staff,
- Implement managerial staff rounds,
- Identifying new methods to solicit feedback,
- Reaching out to local educational centers, CAN, and nursing programs,
- Create an employee appreciate week.
Overall, participants report valuing hearing from others struggling with similar challenges and appreciate opportunities to share ideas and to talk through issues.
Interested in learning more about our Project ECHO efforts? Contact Stephanie Baker: [email protected]
