May 6, 2022
Dear DHSS Employees,
Welcome to our third biweekly newsletter for employees on the department reorganization.
In administrative news, progress on the executive order reorganization in the state’s accounting system, IRIS, is occurring. In our first project phase, both new department codes were loaded – 16 is for Department of Health and 26 is for the Department of Family and Community Services. We are in the testing stage for the appropriation and unit code structures. Once validated, these will be loaded into IRIS production in the newly created departments.
In our second project phase, we will be converting into the test environment activity, location, and function codes along with roll-ups and sub-codes, followed by the major program structures and all associated cost accounting elements. Additionally we are working on purchasing cards (P-Cards), labor distribution profiles and security and workflow for the two new departments.
Spring is here! We know how busy it is for most DHSS employees right now due to the pandemic, other priorities taking center stage again and the department reorganization, but we hope you’re able to spend time enjoying the spring weather and that you are able to take leave as planned or needed.
Taking the breaks you need from work are important. Please remember that and thanks for all you do!
Marian Sweet, Assistant Commissioner,
Department of Family and Community Services
Sylvan Robb, Assistant Commissioner,
Department of Health
Employee Appreciation Day
Wednesday, May 4, was Employee Appreciation Day; we are fortunate to have amazing staff here at the Department of Health and Social Services! Department leadership want each of you to know just how important, how valuable, and how much you are truly appreciated!!! That appreciation is not just felt by us and your coworkers but by all Alaskans; the work you do daily provides invaluable services, support, care, mentoring, growth, and plays a significant role in people's lives. So thank you very much for all you do!
Letter of Agreement on Employee Benefits Extending to Both Departments
Finance and Management Services is working with the Division of Personnel and Labor Relations on a broad letter of agreement (LOA) that would allow current Alaska Department of Health and Social Services (DHSS) employees to be considered as "department employees" for both the Department of Health (DOH) and the Department of Family and Community Services (DFCS) with department-specific personnel benefits for one year after the split. These benefits covered under the LOA would include items like lateral transfers, being able to apply for positions that are posted for department-only applications and more. For example, if there is a position with DFCS that is open to department employees only, then both DOH and DFCS employees could apply.
Healthy You in 2022 is Highlighting Staff Transitions
The department's Healthy You in 2022 Workplace Wellness newsletter will be highlighting staff transitions this month and in future months. Many organizations are experiencing a high degree of transition and turnover due to the pandemic and workforce changes occurring nationwide. Further changes are occurring within DHSS due to the reorganization. Change can be unsettling and you may find you miss coworkers who move on to other opportunities. Take time to say goodbye and honor their work - and recognize them in the Healthy You in 2022 employee newsletter by emailing information to martin.jones@alaska.gov.
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The DHSS reorganization represents great opportunity for the State of Alaska, as well as improved services for Alaskans, but recognize that the transition may be stressful for some employees.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, please know that free help is available to many State of Alaska employees. The State of Alaska’s Employee Assistance Program (EAP) offers a confidential counseling service, free of charge to AlaskaCare Health and ASEA Health Trust members and their dependents. It provides assessment, treatment and referral services and is there to help you balance your personal and professional life. Some of the areas EAP can help with include:
- Personal well-being and work-life balance
- Emotional wellness
- Marital/relationship issues
- Family issues
- Communication skills
- Stress management
- Alcohol and drug issues
- Work-related issues
- Grief issues
- Financial and legal concerns
Call (855) 417-2493 to learn more or visit the EAP webpage.
You also can always call Careline Alaska if you’re in a crisis or need someone to talk to. Careline is free, confidential and available 24/7 to all Alaskans. Call anytime, toll-free: 1-877-266-4357 (HELP) or text 4help to 839863.
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Q) Why use an executive order (EO)?
A) An EO is the proper constitutional authority available to the governor under Article III, Section 23 of the state constitution, which holds that the governor may make changes in the organization of the executive branch or in the assignment of functions among its units which he considers necessary for efficient administration. Where these changes require the force of law, they shall be set forth in executive orders. Although it is not a bill, the EO process still provides opportunity for legislative review, committee hearings and public comment.
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