Scripps Health has once again secured its place on Fortune magazine’s prestigious 100 Best Companies to Work For list—marking the 17th time the San Diego-based health system has received the honor. Notably, Scripps is the only company in San Diego County to make the list this year, which recognizes organizations that create exceptional workplaces across all levels and employee identities.
“Our people are our greatest strength,” said Chris Van Gorder, Scripps Health president and CEO. “We invest heavily in their well-being, growth, and success, which is why our employee turnover and vacancy rates remain well below industry averages.”
Prioritizing Safety and Support
With over 20,000 employees and clinicians across the region, Scripps has cultivated a high-performing workforce by emphasizing safety, professional development, and holistic employee support.
Recognizing the growing issue of workplace violence in health care, Van Gorder spearheaded a regional hospital workforce violence task force in 2023. This coalition, involving local law enforcement and health care leaders, aims to prevent, address, and prosecute acts of violence against hospital workers. Scripps also supported the passage of California Assembly Bill 977, which enforces stricter penalties for assaults in hospital emergency departments.
Internally, Scripps offers de-escalation training, integrates security into patient care, and fosters a culture of situational awareness—leading to a decrease in violent incidents in 2024 compared to the previous year.
Personalized Help in Times of Crisis
Through its Work-Life Services program and Employee Assistance Program (EAP), Scripps provides tailored support to staff facing personal crises—from childcare assistance to help with disability paperwork. The HOPE Fund, backed by staff-donated PTO and financial gifts, offers vital aid to employees during emergencies. In early 2024, after severe flooding struck San Diego, the fund distributed $10,000 in grants to affected employees.
Support also comes in the form of peer-to-peer aid, with trained volunteers offering 24/7 psychological first aid through the Resilience in Stressful Events initiative.
Building Careers from Within
Scripps invests over $13.5 million annually into staff education and development, including courses through its Center for Learning and Innovation, and nine career transition programs to help fill roles like ICU nurses and care managers.
Leadership development is another cornerstone, with programs like the Employee 100, Front-Line Leader Academy, and Scripps Leadership Academy helping employees at all levels grow, connect, and lead with purpose.
Innovation from the Front Lines
At Scripps, employee ideas drive improvement. Through the Value by Design framework—now evolved into the Scripps Management System—front-line staff identify and implement solutions that enhance patient care and streamline operations. Successful innovations are widely shared across the organization via internal media and recognition events.
National Recognition
Scripps ranked No. 97 on this year’s list, which is compiled by Great Place To Work® based on over 1.3 million confidential employee surveys. Only certified organizations with 1,000+ employees are considered, and those that make the cut consistently outperform competitors in retention, innovation, and business performance.
Being named to the 100 Best list reflects a culture where employees are valued, empowered, and inspired—something Scripps Health continues to exemplify year after year.