Pair of MedStar Health hospitals achieve nurse Magnet designation

MedStar Harbor Hospital and MedStar Montgomery Medical Center were awarded the Magnet designation for excellence in nursing from the American Nurses Credentialing Center’s (ANCC) Commission on Magnet Recognition Program.

MedStar Harbor and MedStar Montgomery, along with MedStar Franklin Square Medical Center (fourth designation) are three of just eight hospitals in Maryland to attain Magnet recognition. Along with MedStar Georgetown University Hospital (fifth designation), MedStar Health now has four hospitals with Magnet designation. Less than 10% of hospitals nationwide have achieved a Magnet designation.

The Magnet Recognition Program distinguishes organizations that meet rigorous standards for providing the highest quality patient care, teamwork, professionalism, and innovation in Nursing practice. Obtaining Magnet status requires significant documentation, a comprehensive evaluation and an extensive site visit. As the gold standard for nursing excellence, Magnet recognition is bestowed upon an organization for a four-year time frame, and an organization must re-apply for the designation.

MedStar Montgomery and MedStar Harbor were also recognized by the ANCC with a total of 11 exemplars, which underscore exceptional performance in various elements of the Magnet model. MedStar Montgomery received six exemplars for Exemplary Professional Practice and MedStar Harbor received four exemplars in the same category acknowledging outstanding effective care services, high quality patient outcomes within a culture of safety and quality improvement.

Additionally, MedStar Harbor was awarded an exemplar in Structural Empowerment for a supportive learning environment, including professional development and academic achievement.