And Then There Were Nine

By: Andy Mulkerin


 

With a phone call on Oct. 31, UPMC Magee-Womens Hospital became the ninth UPMC facility to be recognized under the American Nurses Credentialing Center’s Magnet Recognition Program®.

The ANCC’s Magnet program distinguishes organizations that meet rigorous standards for nursing excellence. Only 7% of hospitals nationwide have achieved the designation.

UPMC Magee leaders invited all available staff to the hospital lobby and the balconies that overlook it to join in on the phone call from Magnet Commission chair Jeanette Ives Erickson. She confirmed that the hospital’s document and site visit were accepted by the commission, and that UPMC Magee was now officially recognized under the Magnet program.

In addition to Magnet recognition for the hospital, Erickson announced that UPMC Magee was recognized as an exemplar in the categories of emergency department and influenza vaccination for patients.

“Magnet recognition is a reflection of the excellence of the entire hospital,” said Richard Beigi, MD, president, UPMC Magee. “We could not have achieved this prestigious honor without the teamwork of all the departments and services throughout UPMC Magee.”

Attracting Great Nurses

The Magnet program is so named because institutions that put in the work to fulfill its requirements tend to attract the highest level of talent. ​

Magnet recognition is the highest recognition for nursing excellence and is a key factor when those seeking care evaluate health care organizations.

UPMC Magee joins eight other UPMC hospitals that have achieved recognition. That list is expected to grow in the coming years as more hospitals continue their Magnet journeys.

Magnet recognition is valid for four years, during which time the ANCC monitors the hospital to ensure that high patient care standards remain intact. The ANCC is the largest and most prominent nursing credentialing organization in the United States.