January 14, 2009

Methodist Earns National Recognition for Nursing Excellence

Peoria, Illinois-January 14, 2009

The American Nurses Credentialing Center’s (ANCC) Magnet Recognition Program® for excellence in nursing services has once again designated Methodist Medical Center as a Magnet hospital. Only five percent of hospitals in the U.S. qualify for Magnet status.

"Magnet recognition is to nursing what a gold medal is to the Olympics," says Methodist President and CEO Michael Bryant. "To earn Magnet status once is a tremendous accomplishment and a great source of pride for our nurses. To retain Magnet status for another four years really underscores the commitment of our entire staff to continually strive harder each day to meet the healthcare needs of the people we serve."

The announcement came during a conference call with hospital staff on Monday, January 12, 2009. Gail Wolfe, Chair of the Magnet Commission, congratulated Methodist on an outstanding application, saying it has been her experience that re-certification is often more difficult than first-time certification. She said, "Clearly the forces of Magnetism are in the DNA of the Methodist staff!" Wolfe said approval of Methodist was a unanimous decision of the Magnet Commission.

According to the ANCC, the leading nursing credentialing organization in the United States, Magnet designation is widely accepted as the gold standard of patient care. The Magnet Recognition Program recognizes excellence and professionalism in nursing. Applicants undergo an extensive evaluation, and members who are awarded Magnet status must continue to maintain rigorous standards as part of their four-year designation. To reapply for and receive Magnet status for an additional four years is confirmation of the hospital’s resolve to deliver the highest level of care in nursing today.

Research shows that Magnet hospitals are more effective at attracting and keeping quality nurses.

"We’re a better institution today because of our Magnet designation four years ago," says Debbie Simon, Chief Nursing Officer and Chief Operating Officer. "It raised the bar on patient care and inspired all of us – nurses, physicians, professional and support staff – to strive to be even better. That’s what enabled us to become a Magnet facility in the first place. That’s why we continue to serve as a Magnet hospital today."

In 2004, Methodist became the first hospital in downstate Illinois to receive Magnet status.

The Magnet Recognition Program provides important national and international recognition to healthcare organizations that demonstrate sustained excellence in nursing care.