Kootenai | Kootenai Health | Issue 1, 2019

Kootenai Health was recently given the Seven Seals award by the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) for its efforts in supporting staff who are members of the National Guard and Reserve. Kootenai Health is the first organization in the region to receive the Seven Seal award. In addition to Kootenai receiving the award, Dershi Bussey, trauma program manager, was recognized as an individual for her efforts in supporting Luke Emerson, trauma clinical navigator, prior to his deployment with the National Guard. Anattentiveadvocate “During the predeployment process, we’re able to nominate our employer or supervisor for their support before and after deployment,” Luke said. “Kootenai Health not only supports More to explore You can learn more about the ESGR at esgr.mil . To learn more about trauma services at Kootenai Health, visit KH.org/emergency . Supporting ThoseWho Serve Kootenai Health earned Seven Seals from the National Guard and Reserve By Andrea Nagel Not only does the Guard and Reserve do wonderful things in our community, but it’s also a great opportunity for young professionals like Luke to build experience, independence and camaraderie. It provides a unique career challenge and a way to develop leadership skills. —Dershi Bussey reserves and other military staff by ensuring they have a job when they get back, but Kootenai also offers additional benefits that help us and our families while we’re away. As my supervisor, Dershi has been with me each step of the way, making sure I understood all the benefits available and advocating on my behalf.” The ESGR is a national organization under the Department of Defense that is made up of a network of more than 3,750 volunteers in 54 committees across the country. The goal of the ESGR is to foster a culture in which all employers support and value the employment and military service of members of the National Guard and Reserve. TheKootenai Healthway Luke said he wanted to nominate Dershi not just because of her support as a manager, but also for her care and concern for his well-being, as well as his family’s. “It really demonstrates the Kootenai Health way—caring for each other as individuals as much as co-workers,” he said. “Dershi isn’t the only one either. Members of our Professional Nursing Council send care packages to staff members who are deployed and to their families sometimes. It makes you feel like you’re truly part of a team and that you have something great to come back home to in addition to your loved ones.” KH . ORG 5