SSM Health

03/16/2026

Known to colleagues as “Sister Mary Chromosome,” Sister Leo Rita Volk, FSM, was a trailblazer in cytogenetics whose groundbreaking chromosome-mapping techniques helped lay the groundwork for the Human Genome Project.
As a scientist, professor, and lab supervisor at SSM Health St. Mary's Hospital in St. Louis, she used her research to better understand genetic diseases and improve cancer treatments—always with the goal of helping others. Her deep faith guided her work, inspiring awe at “the actual chromosomes we are made of.”
Today we honor Sister Leo Rita: a brilliant mind, a humble servant, and a pioneer who expanded both science and our sense of wonder. 💜🧬

03/15/2026

At SSM Health, Formation isn’t a program—it’s a lived practice that shapes how we lead, serve, and show up for one another. By grounding our work in reflection, purpose, and our founding values, we strengthen not only our teams but the healing experience we offer every patient.
In a fast‑paced health care environment, taking time to reconnect with our mission isn’t a luxury; it’s essential. Formation helps us pause, listen deeply, and act with intention—ensuring our decisions reflect compassion, dignity, and the common good.

Read more about how we’re carrying this legacy forward:

A practice known as ‘formation’ helps employees deepen their connection to our mission

03/14/2026

🌸 One stitch of hope at a time 🌸
Breast cancer survivor Julie Gerner turned one of the hardest moments of her life into a mission of comfort. Through every step of her treatment, she crocheted — and now she uses that same passion to lift others up. Her kindness reminds us that even the smallest gift can bring big courage.
Watch Julie’s inspiring story here:
https://fox47.com/news/local/breast-cancer-survivor-uses-crochet-hobby-to-give-other-something-to-hold-on-to
💗 May we all find ways to share a little hope.

A Portage woman who battled cancer says she wasn't alone and she doesn't want others to be either. When hope feels out of reach, she's using her hobby to give s

03/13/2026

When patients don't have reliable transportation, it's hard to get to important medical appointments. Those missed appointments can negatively impact their health. Our team in Jefferson City, Missouri, is addressing this social determinant of health directly - by using HealthTran to find volunteer drivers for patients. Read how this collaboration supports better health for our neighbors in this Catholic Health World article from The Catholic Health Association of the United States:

The program addresses a key social determinant of health.

03/12/2026

We’re excited to celebrate Janet Smith-Hill, our Chief People Officer, for being named one of Becker's Hospital Review Hospital and Health System CHROs and Chief People Officers to Know in 2026!
Janet’s dedication to our caregivers and her mission‑driven leadership make a meaningful difference across SSM Health every day. We’re proud to see her recognized for the impact she makes on our people and our organization.
👉 Check out the full list here:
https://www.beckershospitalreview.com/hospital-management-administration/140-hospital-and-health-system-chros-and-chief-people-officers-to-know-2026/
💙 Congratulations, Janet!

03/11/2026

SSM Health is proud to celebrate Erinn Oller, Vice President of Operations for SSM Health in Oklahoma, on her selection as a 2026 Honorary Commander at Tinker Air Force Base!
Erinn was officially welcomed into this year’s Honorary Commander class during a recent ceremony.
The Honorary Commander program strengthens the connection between Tinker Air Force Base and local community leaders, offering participants a unique, behind‑the‑scenes look at the mission, operations, and impact of one of Oklahoma’s most important military installations.
As part of the 2026 cohort, Erinn joins an accomplished group of leaders recognized for their commitment to service and community engagement. Her passion for supporting our communities—and dedication to advancing SSM Health’s mission—make her an outstanding addition to this year’s class.
✨ Congratulations, Erinn, on this well‑deserved honor!
📸: US Air Force

03/11/2026

Planning a getaway doesn’t have to be stressful. The SSM Health Treffert Center reminds us that the best vacations focus on your child’s strengths—not a packed itinerary.
✨ Pick supportive environments.
Choose places with quiet areas, flexible schedules, clear layouts, and inclusive staff to help your child stay regulated.
✨ Plan around what your child loves.
Water play, building, movement, structure—whatever lights them up can anchor your trip and keep energy flowing smoothly.
✨ Keep the pace gentle.
One big activity a day + built‑in reset breaks helps prevent overwhelm in new environments.
✨ Redefine success.
A great vacation is one where your child can participate, regulate, and connect in ways that feel good for their nervous system.
For more family-friendly vacation planning advice, read the full article here:
👉

Travel experiences are attainable, but make your goals flexible

03/10/2026

Today, as violence and fear touch communities around the globe, we remember all who are suffering — and especially our caregivers who also serve in the military, balancing two profound callings of service. We pray for them, their families, and for peace rooted in God’s healing love. We invite you to pause, reflect, and join us in this prayer offered by The Catholic Health Association of the United States.

03/09/2026

During Catholic Sisters Week, we recognize the incredible legacy of our founding congregation. In 1872, five Sisters traveled from Germany to St. Louis to serve those in need. They formed the Sisters of St. Mary (now the Franciscan Sisters of Mary) and opened their first hospital in 1877—the beginning of what is now SSM Health.

Their dedication to caring for the community continues to guide our work today.


Photo courtesy of the Franciscan Sisters of Mary

03/09/2026

SSM Health is proud to be recognized nationally as a truly exceptional place to work. Recently, Newsweek and Becker's Hospital Review honored our commitment to a supportive, mission‑driven culture where every team member can thrive.

🏆 Newsweek Awards
🔹 America’s Greatest Workplaces for Women 2026
🔹 Greatest Workplaces for Culture, Belonging & Community 2026
These recognitions reflect insights gathered from more than 580,000 employees nationwide and highlight our continued dedication to creating an environment where women excel and all colleagues feel seen, valued, and supported.

🏆 Becker’s Healthcare
🔹 Top Places to Work in Healthcare 2026
Becker’s applauded our strong culture of compassion, respect, purpose, and employee engagement—qualities that help our teams deliver exceptional care every day.

At SSM Health, we’re deeply grateful for our incredible employees whose dedication makes achievements like these possible. Together, we’re building a workplace rooted in community, growth, and mission.

💙 Learn more about these awards and what makes SSM Health a great place to work:
https://www.ssmhealth.com/newsroom/blogs/ssm-health-matters/march-2026/three-national-awards-highlight-ssm-healths-continued-workplace-excellence

03/08/2026

There’s a lot of misunderstanding and fear surrounding colonoscopies—but the truth is, they’re one of the most powerful tools we have for early detection of colorectal cancer.
Early detection saves lives. 💙
Find out if you're eligible for a colorectal screening and learn more at:
👉 https://www.ssmhealth.com/services/cancer-care-support/types-of-cancer/colon-cancer-screenings,-symptoms-treatment

03/07/2026

Staying up‑to‑date on vaccinations is one of the most effective ways to protect your health and the health of those around you. The measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine offers strong, long‑lasting protection—one dose protects about 93% of people, and two doses protect about 97% for most individuals.
At SSM Health, our primary care providers and pharmacy teams make it simple and convenient to get your MMR vaccination.
📅 Schedule your appointment by calling your SSM Health clinic or booking directly through MyChart.
Together, we can help keep our communities healthy and strong. 💙