Dear Colleagues,
I am pleased to share that MU Health Care and the University of Missouri School of Medicine have recently earned three prestigious recognitions that highlight our shared commitment to supporting the well-being of our team members. These honors are a reflection of the culture you help create every day through your dedication to our patients and to one another.
First, MU Health Care has once again been named to the Forbes list of Best-in-State Employers 2025 for Missouri. This marks the seventh consecutive year we have received this honor, which is based on feedback from employees and the public. It recognizes the positive work culture, opportunities for growth, and work-life balance that you make possible.
Second, MU Health Care and the School of Medicine were recognized by the American Medical Association’s Joy in Medicine® Health System Recognition Program, earning bronze distinction. This honor underscores our progress in addressing the root causes of burnout and creating an environment where clinicians and staff can find joy, purpose and meaning in the care we provide.
Finally, MU Health Care has been named a Wellbeing First Champion by ALL IN: Wellbeing First for Healthcare. This recognition confirms that our applications are free from stigmatizing language about mental health care, ensuring that team members can seek help without fear of losing their license or job.
These achievements would not be possible without the leadership of Dr. Shelly Farnan and her team in the Office of Well-Being. Their work has laid a strong foundation, but this is only the beginning. We are excited to see how their efforts will continue to enhance and improve our ability to support our talented workforce by fostering a culture where caring for each other is every bit as important as caring for our patients.
Each of these recognitions affirms the importance of the work we are doing to create a supportive environment where team members can thrive. Our people are the heart of this organization, and we know that when you are supported and well, our patients and communities benefit too.
I am deeply grateful for your continued commitment to building a culture of wellness and compassion. Together, we are shaping a workplace where every team member can succeed and where the best possible care is delivered to those we serve.
Warm regards,
Sincerely,
Rick Barohn, MD
Executive Vice Chancellor for Health Affairs and Hugh E. and Sarah D. Stephenson Dean, School of Medicine
rbarohn@health.missouri.edu
