‘Here at Thompson You Are Made to Feel like Part of the Family’

A nurse for more than 10 years, Michelle Shirtz has spent the majority of her career traveling. She has worked all over upstate New York and in other areas of the country, from community hospitals to Level 1 Trauma Centers.

In fact, it was as a traveling nurse that Michelle first began working in our ICU. She soon discovered she didn’t want to leave, and was recently named Nurse Leader for the department.

“What I have noticed is that everyone takes the time to get to know you,” she said. “From walking through the front door there are people to greet and help you get where you need to go, whether you are staff or visiting a loved one.”

In today’s world, Michelle said, there are many places where you “feel like you are just a number.”

“Here at Thompson you are made to feel like part of the family. From the CEO or CNO to the directors and managers of each unit, they take the time to get to know you by your name,” she said, noting that she has been impressed by little touches such as Thompson’s tradition of gifting each associate a turkey, ham, or veggie lasagna for the holidays.

Thompson Health Vice President of Associate Services and Wellness Jennifer DeVault said it’s that unique corporate culture that serves as an advantage as Thompson endeavors to recruit the best and brightest.

With the additions of people like Michelle, the health system has turned a corner in its ongoing efforts to bounce back from the effects on staffing caused by the pandemic and subsequent vaccine mandates. In fact, the health system – which was already Ontario County’s largest employer – marked a milestone recently when it surpassed 2,000 associates.

Although there are still several openings, Jennifer and others are encouraged by the feedback from people like Michelle and like Cheryl Harloff, who joined the Recreation Therapy Department in our M.M. Ewing Continuing Care Center in late September.

“I enjoy all of the little opportunities and offerings that a large facility like Thompson offers. Everyone has been welcoming, friendly, and supportive,” Cheryl said.

Adam Drammeh, a clinical secretary in the OB/GYN practice at our Canandaigua Medical Group, started one week after Harloff.

"Thompson has created a work environment that is not only conducive and welcoming, but also values both their associates and patients,” she said. “It's incredible to see how they prioritize the well-being of everyone involved. This kind of consideration makes all the difference in creating a positive and fulfilling work environment.”

Michelle noted that someone she had worked with at another hospital once told her Thompson would be a good fit for her. More than a year in, Michelle said her friend was definitely right.

“After being here,” she said, “I truly believe I have found my home in the workplace!”