}Barton Memorial Hospital in South Lake Tahoe, Calif., sent its 900 employees back to school in June to learn how to provide better service.

}Their instructor: The Walt Disney Co.

}Disney understands guest services.

Disney’s theme parks and resorts are known for their rigid employee service standards and meticulous landscaping.

Why so???

}Disney attributes the increase in its health consulting business to a provision in last year's federal health law that requires that Medicare payments to hospitals reflect patient-satisfaction ratings.

}That money amounts to $850 million in the first year.

Implemented Changes

}Barton has revamped its employee dress code, improved its landscaping and changed its hiring practices to focus on applicants' attitude.

}Helping hospitals understand that standards for good service must involve all employees, including receptionists and parking attendants.

Disney taught that service is a culture and a way of life.

Criticism

}Criticized for paying thousands of dollars to learn management skills from a company known for Cinderella's Castle and Space Mountain.

The University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics came under fire from state lawmakers in 2009 after it proposed sending 35 of its executives to Disney World at a cost of $130,000.