PHC recognized as Best Large Employer in the state

MISSOULA - Partnership Health Center, Missoula County's non-profit Community Health Center and provider at the Seeley-Swan Medical Center (SSMC), received the 2022 Employer of Choice award in the large business category from the Montana Department of Labor & Industry. While PHC was recognized as the Employer of Choice on the local level in both 2019 and 2022, this award marks the first time PHC was recognized at the state level for "outstanding service to employees, community and the state of Montana."

"With unemployment in Montana at historic lows, it is more important than ever that employers go above and beyond to attract and retain talent," said Laurie Esau, commissioner of the Montana Department of Labor & Industry, in a press release. "Offering competitive benefits and wages, fostering a positive workplace culture and encouraging employee development and growth can all help employers build the workforce they need to meet their customers' needs. Congratulations to Partnership Health Center on earning recognition for their work in these areas."

A division of Missoula County government, PHC consists of more than 267 employees working at seven different locations in Missoula and Seeley Lake. Some of PHC's key elements of staff support that the Department of Labor & Industry recognized included:

· Access to free counseling

· Six weeks paid parental leave for the birth or adoption of a child

· Flexible spending accounts for medical and dependent care expenses

· Generous leave time including two weeks of paid sick time per year and three weeks of paid vacation per year

During the COVID-19 pandemic when many employees faced unexpected childcare costs, PHC leadership responded by providing financial assistance to defray those costs.

"Meaningful, responsive action characterizes PHC's commitment to supporting staff and creating a work environment where employees can grow and thrive," stated the press release from PHC.

Many of the staff at the SSMC agreed that they are passionate about working with the community and taking care of their neighbors.

"It is my greatest pleasure to see the smiles on the patients' faces after their visit with us," said Beth Hughes, SSMC CMA. "I love coming into the clinic everyday knowing we are making differences in our patients' lives!"

The SSMC staff also felt they could not do their job without the support and teamwork with their co-workers and the support they receive from PHC.

"I'm grateful every day for the opportunity to work with such an amazing group of professionals," said Georgiann McCoy, SSMC Clinic Manager. "Our leadership in Missoula empowers us all to do whatever it takes to make a positive impact for our community."

"I appreciate working with an agency that values advocacy for both patients and staff," added Alyssa Harris, SSMC Dentist. "Healthcare is a challenging environment to work in, especially these past few years. It helps to navigate these challenges knowing PHC is actively trying to make improvements for all."

"On behalf of our patients, staff and board of directors, we are absolutely thrilled to be recognized for our work to create the best possible environment for our staff," said Laurie Francis, executive director of PHC, in the press release. "Our board and our leadership team believe strongly that our ability to deliver on our mission and create positive impact across Missoula County starts with a healthy, supported and engaged workforce. Our employees are amazing people and they are part of the fabric of our community. When they thrive, it helps our community thrive."