Camaraderie Action: Cultivating Community and Commensality

Abstract Cultivating Community and Commensality, the first of three Camaraderie Actions, builds space for colleagues to connect and support each other on a deeper level than afforded in day-to-day work. This is a characteristic of a people-centered organization. Collegiality and social bonds with peers are critical components of engagement, satisfaction, and well-being of health care professionals. However, increased clinical and administrative demands in health care can make creating these connections more challenging. When an organization supports commensality, the return on investment is high: a greater sense of community that enhances professional fulfillment, reduces burnout, and promotes professional well-being.