NORTHERN CALIF. — Sutter Health has been recognized again by Forbes as one of California’s Best-in-State Employers for 2025 — one of just 13 healthcare organizations in the Golden State to earn the honor this year. For Sutter, this recognition is more than just a badge or spot on a list. It’s a reflection of the culture, care and commitment that define the employee experience across the organization.
The organization’s purpose-driven culture — centered around a mission of caring for its patients first and people always — unites more than 60,000 employees, clinicians and physicians across Northern California. From hosting special events for thousands of employees to inspire, inform and immerse them in organizational culture and strategy to leaders making “gratitude tours” to thank employees, Sutter fosters connection, recognition and shared purpose to help engage, retain and attract the best talent.
“This recognition is a reflection of the incredible people who make Sutter Health what it is,” said Chief Human Resources Officer Deborah Yount. “We’re proud to be a place where people feel supported, inspired and empowered to grow their careers — while also delivering high-quality, compassionate care that makes us one of the best places for patients to receive care.”
What Makes Sutter Stand Out
- Employees are supported with comprehensive total rewards that go far beyond compensation. In 2025, Sutter will invest nearly $9 billion in pay, retirement and benefits, including covering 95% of employee medical plan costs — well above the national average, reflecting a deep commitment to employee well-being and work-life balance.
- Growth and development are also central to the Sutter experience. Through Sutter Health University, a systemwide mentoring program and tailored learning paths, team members are empowered to build meaningful careers. In 2024 alone, employees completed more than 9,000 development programs, and new academic partnerships are expanding opportunities for the next generation of healthcare professionals.
- Sutter solicits workforce feedback, listens to it and acts on it. A record 88% of employees participated in the 2024 Experience of Work survey, with 85% recommending Sutter as a great place to work.
- Safety and innovation go hand in hand. Sutter has invested $45 million in enhanced security technology and launched an Innovation Center in San Francisco to explore digital solutions that improve patient care and the employee experience. Strategic partnerships like Care Alliance with GE HealthCare, Aidoc and Abridge are also bringing AI-powered tools to the front lines.
For more information on Forbes’ methodology and to see the full list of awardees across the country, click here.
