The healthcare industry is evolving from a time when organizational leaders encouraged staff to express their individuality through their uniforms. Now, there’s a growing body of evidence which shows that when organizations implement cohesive uniform programs, they foster a consistent, positive patient experience.
It’s critical to get caregivers at every level aligned with your organization’s vision of professionalism, competency and quality of care through the uniforms they wear.
When your staff are unified in their uniforms, the patient benefits and so does your organization. You’ll experience improved patient care, trust and loyalty.
A 2014 study showed that 68% of U.S. adults struggle to identify hospital staff based on their uniforms. If your organization doesn't have a uniform program, here's why you should consider one.
1. A consistent presentation reduces stress.
Improving the patient experience with easily identifiable staff uniforms helps calm nerves and keeps the focus on care. A color-coded uniform program is an efficient way to distinguish staff members based on their position within the organization.
2. Looking unified, presentable and professional boosts trust.
Issues like inconsistent uniform quality, cleanliness and faded fabric give the impression of poor quality and caregiver competency. Choose a vendor who uses consistently high quality materials and logo embroidery so that your employees look professional, no matter what their roles entail.
3. Consistent branding contributes to stronger patient relationships.
Uniforms are a key way you represent your organization to the patients and prospective patients within the community. Strong, cohesive uniform branding across the board helps your team convey a positive message about who you are and the care you provide.
In addition to the benefits from a patient perspective, a uniform program frees your staff from worrying about what to wear for every shift. And when it comes to self-expression, those who are so inclined can add a bit of flare with colorful ID badge holders, badge embellishments or distinctive footwear without sacrificing uniform integrity.
Questions about how to implement a uniform program? We're here to help.