Hackensack Meridian Health recently announced that JFK University Medical Center has achieved a Magnet designation from the American Nurses Credentialing Center for the first time.
The Magnet Recognition Program is recognized as the gold standard of nursing excellence, with just 9.4% of hospitals in the U.S. receiving this designation.
“This Magnet designation is an outstanding achievement for JFK University Medical Center, and I congratulate all our team members who continue to provide outstanding care for patients each day,” Robert Garrett, CEO of Hackensack Meridian Health, said. “At Hackensack Meridian Health, we are committed to transforming the way health care is delivered, and our exceptional nurses are an integral part. This is truly a game changer for JFK.”
The Magnet Recognition Program distinguishes health care organizations that meet arduous standards for nursing excellence. The program focuses on advancing three goals within each Magnet organization: promoting quality in a setting that supports professional practice; identifying excellence in the delivery of nursing services to patients; and disseminating “best practices” in nursing services.
“I am thrilled that JFK University Medical Center has earned Magnet recognition, the highest honor for nursing excellence,” Amie Thornton, president and chief hospital executive, JFK University Medical Center, said. “This prestigious designation is a testament to the exceptional professional practice of our nursing team and the contributions they make to advancing evidence-based nursing practice. I am incredibly proud of the contributions of JFK nursing to elevating the standard of care delivered to our patients.”
Research demonstrates that Magnet recognition provides specific benefits to health care organizations and their communities. This includes:
- Higher patient satisfaction with nurse communication, availability of help and receipt of discharge information;
- Lower risk of 30-day mortality and lower failure to rescue rates;
- Higher job satisfaction among nurses; and
- Lower nurse reports of intentions to leave their positions.
“Given the strength and quality of nursing at JFK University Medical Center, it is no surprise that it has achieved the highest honor for nursing excellence,” Regina Foley, executive vice president, chief nurse executive and chief clinical transformation and integration officer for Hackensack Meridian Health, said. “This incredible accomplishment is a result of the nursing and leadership teams working together, and a hospitalwide commitment to success. Our nurses provide the highest quality of care to our patients and this designation is a clear reflection of that.”
To achieve Magnet recognition, organizations must pass a rigorous and lengthy process that demands widespread participation from leadership and team members. This process includes an electronic application, a written document, a virtual or on-site visit and a review by the Commission on Magnet Recognition.
Health care organizations reapply for Magnet recognition every four years based on adherence to Magnet concepts and demonstrated improvements in patient care and quality. An organization reapplying for Magnet recognition must provide documented evidence to demonstrate how team members sustained and improved Magnet concepts, performance and quality over the four-year period since the organization received its most recent recognition.
