Analyzing the impact of the FISH! Philosophy on postpandemic workplace culture in an academic medical laboratory setting.

Abstract

Introduction: The post-COVID-19 work environment has seen widespread employee disengagement and increased turnover rates. To combat this negative cultural shift, the pathology department at a large academic medical center launched a culture-change initiative using the FISH! Philosophy program in fall 2023.

Methods: Employees were invited to participate in FISH! Philosophy training and completed a baseline survey before attending (n = 125), a pulse survey at the conclusion of their session (n = 86), and a follow-up survey after 3 to 6 months (n = 53).

Results: Employees responded positively to the training (94.1%). Improvement in job satisfaction (4.2% increase) and improved culture (reported by 49%) were noted, along with improvements in other key categories related to interpersonal relationships. Trust, however, saw a statistically significant decline (4.4%). Free-text comments were included in 42% of follow-up surveys, indicating that FISH! practices continue to be implemented in their work areas.

Discussion: Although early results are mixed, positive movement has been observed in employee attitudes and behaviors. As more employees, and especially faculty and leadership, are trained, we anticipate that less resistance will be encountered, and lasting culture change will occur.