Only 7 percent of hospitals nationwide can claim the coveted honor. Magnet designation recognizes health care organizations for quality patient care, clinical excellence and innovations in professional practice.

“Magnet designation is about who we are and what we do every day,” said Sarah Horn, Salem Health chief nursing officer. “It is about our interdisciplinary, collaborative culture, which fosters excellent patient care in an environment that focuses on continuous improvement. Magnet ultimately benefits our patients and community.”

The ANCC Magnet Recognition Program® is a rigorous vetting process that takes a demonstrated track record of excellent outcomes to prove quality care is truly delivered in a health care setting. ANCC Magnet surveyors spent several days at Salem Hospital in June to conduct a thorough review. The appraisers spoke with staff and patients throughout the hospital, plus received community input.

“Achieving and maintaining Magnet status is not easy because the standards increase every year,” said Margo Halm, Salem Health director of nursing research, professional practice and Magnet. “We have 40 to 50 specialty practice teams focused on continually improving patient care. Those vital efforts contribute to improving outcomes for our patients.”

Salem Hospital first achieved Magnet designation in 2010 after seven years of dedicated focus by clinical and professional staff—nearly 4,000 employees—in partnership with community physicians and volunteers. Together, they developed and implemented patient care standards that meet and exceed Magnet criteria across all aspects and areas of care in the hospital.

Salem Hospital is a part of Salem Health, along with West Valley Hospital, Willamette Health Partners and other affiliated health care organizations offering exceptional care to people in and around Oregon’s mid-Willamette Valley. The prestigious 2015 Truven Health 50 Top Cardiovascular Hospitals named Salem Hospital among the highest performing hospitals in the nation—and the only Oregon hospital, and one of two Pacific Northwest hospitals, to receive this honor. “Like” us on Facebook; follow us on Twitter; and view us at YouTube.