Relative strength of departure rates on patient satisfaction. In examining how each type of departure
rate is expected to differentially affect patient satisfaction in the near term, we focus on the extent
to which remaining workers can capture lost information and rebuild disrupted processes. We assert
that employees who leave an organization are less likely to be available or willing to provide guidance
and information to the remaining employees. In contrast, information held by those who transferout
is more likely to be within reach of the remaining employees. Employees who have transferred to
other units but remain in the organization also have some incentive for being responsive and helpful to
their previous units in the immediate aftermath of their departure. This motivation, as well as the
relative ease with which the departed employees can be located, will mitigate the decline to the
unit’s ability to serve patients.