WellSpan Health receives highest-ranking Bell Seal Award for workplace mental health

WellSpan Health, a leading healthcare provider serving communities across South Central Pennsylvania and northern Maryland, is proud to announce that it has been awarded the prestigious 2024 Platinum Bell Seal for Workplace Mental Health by Mental Health America (MHA).

“We are delighted to receive the highest rank of the Bell Seal Award as it shines a light on our unwavering dedication to the mental health and wellbeing of our more than 20,000 team members,” said Aaron Gillingham, senior vice president and chief people officer at WellSpan. “Not only are we are providing impactful career opportunities here, but we are also able to offer our team a supportive environment where they can do their best work and achieve their goals.”

The Bell Seal is a first-of-its-kind workplace mental health certification recognizing employers striving to create mentally healthy workplaces for their employees. The highly regarded certification program recognizes employer advances in workplace mental health by awarding bronze, silver, gold, and platinum levels. WellSpan received the platinum placements, the highest-ranking award type. Only one in four employers meet the standards for Bell Seal certification. To achieve the platinum level, WellSpan underwent a rigorous evaluation of its policies and practices in four areas: workplace culture, benefits, compliance, and wellness programs.

“This recognition is a testament to our ongoing efforts and dedication in supporting the mental health and emotional wellbeing of our team members, which is foundational to their overall whole-person wellbeing,” said Dr. Mike Diller, psychologist and director of WellSpan’s Employee Assistance Program.” 

WellSpan implemented a range of initiatives to prioritize team member wellbeing, including creating a Wellbeing Steering Committee to oversee all efforts; launching a Wellbeing Council for physicians and advanced practice providers specifically, integrating mental health awareness and training into new hire orientation; offering ongoing professional development programs; and providing comprehensive mental health benefits. The organization also promotes fair and effective people management practices, encourages open communication for feedback between team members and managers, and offers professional growth opportunities.

“At WellSpan, we believe that a healthy workforce is the key to executing nearly all of our strategic goals,” said Dr. Ridgley Salter, medical director, chair of WellSpan’s Wellbeing Council. “We’re committed to creating a supportive and inclusive work environment that prioritizes the mental health needs of our team members. This award validates our efforts and inspires us to continue investing in their wellbeing.”

For more information on WellSpan’s Employee Assistance Program, visit WellSpanEAP.org.

Learn more about MHA and the Bell Seal for Workplace Mental Health at MHANational.org/BestEmployers.