Speakers - 2027

Title: Expanding caring science in complex healthcare systems through systems theory

Abstract

Kaiser Permanente Northern California’s reflects a dynamic integration of systems theory and human caring within one of the nation’s most complex healthcare environment. We have established a robust framework—including Caritas Coaches, Caritas Faculty, HeartMath® Trainers, Healing Circle Facilitators, and Equine Leadership initiatives—that brings theory to life in daily practice. Despite challenges such as workforce turnover and shifting organizational priorities, Caring Science has been sustained and scaled through intentional design, the Caritas Coach Education Program (now offered internally), and the creation of Unit Caritas Councils. These councils lead grassroots practices—gratitude rituals, storytelling, “Center Before You Enter”—that embed Caring Science into the very fabric of care delivery, strengthening resilience, cultivating healing environments and restoring joy and meaning in nursing. Kaiser Permanente has invested in research on Caring Science practices, including Healing Circles and reflective practices, to measure outcomes and inform its Magnet® journey. This system-level integration demonstrates how transpersonal caring ontology can sustain compassion in healthcare, align with moral action, and foster professional well-being.