From Scans to Sentiments: The Radiology Gratitude Tree Project
Have you noticed the new permanent fixture in the Radiology Department? It's the Gratitude Tree. If you haven't seen it yet, the Gratitude Tree is on the corridor wall near the third floor radiology reception desk at Parnassus.
The UCSF Department of Radiology & Biomedical Imaging has “planted” this tree to display the many messages of gratitude radiology that staff receive on a daily basis. Having a gratitude tree offers tremendous wellbeing benefits, such as:
- Improving patient experience: Studies have shown that as staff morale improves, it often translates to better patient care and experiences.
- Enhancing workplace culture: It fosters a positive, supportive environment where gratitude becomes part of daily interactions.
- Building team cohesion: Sharing appreciation publicly can strengthen relationships among team members.
- Promoting a culture of gratitude: It normalizes the expression of thankfulness, which can spread beyond the workplace.
The process is simple: Patients or other staff members who want to nominate or show appreciation for a radiology staff member can do so by writing a short note about the extraordinary contribution or care the nominee provided. The comments and entries will be reviewed quarterly, and the notes will be transcribed onto the recyclable leaves which will be affixed to the tree and displayed on the wall.
In the near future, gratitude comment boxes and informational posters for patients will be placed throughout patient changing areas and examination rooms. We will also share ways for department staff to participate on signage in the staff lunch area and break room.
The seed of the Gratitude Tree was planted by three of our staff technologists and Engagement Ambassadors – Celine Chun, Raj Prasad, and Mitchell Lau – based on results of the most recent Engagement Survey.
The Gratitude Tree grew thanks to the creativity of the UCSF Health Imaging Recognition Committee:
- David Poon, Chair
- David Sostarich, MBA, CRT, RT(R), Advisor
- Kathy Brady Porter
- Lisa Liu, BS, RDMS, RVT, RMSKS, Ultrasound Supervisor
- Sandy Ngo, CRT, RT(R, Supervisor OI
- Lisa Trujillo, CRT, RT(R)
- Mei Fu Lee, CRT, RT(R), Moffitt Long Hospital
We will be collecting best practices to incorporate for future Gratitude Trees at other UCSF sites with imaging services. Please join us in noticing and acknowledging our receptionists, technologists, and nurses for the many ways they deliver excellent patient care!
By David Poon