Petersburg Medical Center employee satisfaction hits 91%

Petersburg Medical Center employee satisfaction reached 91% in 2026, a seven-percentage-point increase from 84% in 2024, according to a workplace survey presented to the hospital board Wednesday.

The April 2026 survey showed satisfaction either held steady or improved in every measured area since the 2024 survey. Hospital administrator Stephanie Romine said the results exceed national healthcare averages.

Petersburg Medical Center employs approximately 51 to 100 people across administrative, clinical, and operations roles at its 103 Fram Street campus. The hospital uses annual survey data to track workplace engagement.

Direct primary care launch pending

The hospital is preparing to launch a direct primary care subscription program for residents without insurance or with high-deductible plans. Clinic manager Kelly Zweifel told the board the program could go live in June, pending final billing system setup.

The program will charge adults $125 per month and children $80 per month for an annual subscription covering preventative care, sick visits, and basic lab work. Emergency room visits, hospital stays, specialty labs, radiology, and medications are not covered.

The program operates under Alaska Senate Bill 45, which defines what services can be included. Zweifel said the program targets residents who avoid clinic visits due to cost.

Other hospital updates

The hospital hired Kelly Wood as a part-time nurse case manager working between the clinic and acute care. Wood will focus on obstetric and high-risk pediatric case management and lactation services.

The hospital's swing bed and discharge planning program continues to average two to three patients per day. The hospital's goal is three to six patients.

The hospital board meets next on June 25.