UVA Health University Medical Center has proudly achieved Magnet® recognition again. This honor is the highest for nursing practice in the U.S., awarded by the American Nurses Credentialing Center. Only a small fraction, less than 10%, of U.S. hospitals have this status.
“This is a well-deserved recognition for our nursing team,” said Dr. Mitchell H. Rosner, who is the acting executive vice president for health affairs at the University of Virginia. “Our nurses consistently demonstrate high standards in caring for patients.”
The journey to earning Magnet recognition included a detailed written application and a four-day review by appraisers. They interviewed 1,266 participants from across the medical center. UVA Health had previously received this recognition in 2020 and 2015.
Wendy Horton, CEO of UVA Health, noted, “This recognition reflects our nurses’ strong commitment to our patients and the community.” The lead appraiser also praised the excellence at UVA Health, stating it was unmatched in their 13 years of service as an appraiser.
Kathy Baker, the chief nursing officer at UVA Health, expressed her pride, saying, “I saw our teams impress the appraisers by showing exemplary care and professionalism. We truly deserve this recognition.”
The appraisers highlighted specific strengths of UVA Health nursing care, including:
- Significant positive effects on patient outcomes in outpatient clinics.
- Enhancements to the inpatient experience.
- A high percentage of nurses holding professional certifications and advanced degrees.
Jennifer T. Hall, director of nursing professional practice at UVA Health, shared, “Our nurses uphold the best, evidence-based practices. Magnet recognition gives us a roadmap to continue improving for our team and our patients.”
Research indicates that hospitals with Magnet recognition not only improve patient outcomes but also have higher levels of job satisfaction among nurses. A study from the American Nurses Association found that these hospitals often report 14% lower patient mortality rates and increased patient satisfaction scores. With less turnover in staff, Magnet hospitals create a stable environment conducive to both patient care and a healthy workplace for nurses.
Overall, the recognition is a testament to the dedication and hard work of the nursing staff at UVA Health, highlighting the vital role they play in healthcare.