Over 2.3 million voices, and one clear message: engagement in healthcare is slipping. According to Press Ganey’s latest study employee engagement in the U.S. healthcare workforce declined slightly in 2024, signalling deeper cracks in the culture of care.
While the drop was just 0.02 points, it comes when staff retention is more fragile than ever, especially among early-tenure and front-line workers.
“Healthcare workers are telling us what they need—not just as individuals, but as teams. They’re asking to be seen, heard, and supported in delivering safe, high-quality care. The organisations that rise to this moment, by building cultures rooted in respect, shared purpose, and real partnership, won’t just retain their people,” said Patrick T. Ryan, CEO and chairman of Press Ganey Forsta.
Growing dissatifaction
Though overall turnover saw a modest decline—from 20% to 18%—rising dissatisfaction in critical roles like advanced practice providers (APPs) and physicians suggests that the trend could reverse in 2025. Only 52% of APPs reported feeling heard, and physician burnout continues to climb, fuelled by declining alignment and lack of support.
Teamwork and safety—two pillars of high-quality care—are also showing strain. Fewer employees (78%) now believe their organisations prioritise their safety, and poor perceptions of teamwork directly correlate with intent to leave. Nurses who rated teamwork low were over 1.5 times more likely to consider quitting.
Younger healthcare workers—Millennials and Gen Z—are also sounding the alarm. With lower engagement scores and higher turnover rates, these generations are pushing for leadership that is inclusive, growth-oriented, and purpose-driven.
Meanwhile, one of the most surprising insights: pay is not the primary reason people stay. Instead, it’s about feeling valued, trusted, and connected.
Amid these national challenges, a select group of healthcare organisations is breaking away from the norm. These high-performing systems are using employee experience data strategically, tailoring support by role, tenure, and generation. What sets them apart is a long-term commitment to trust-building, listening, and meaningful action, proving that culture is more than a buzzword. It’s the foundation for future-ready care.