The Magnet Recognition Program distinguishes healthcare organizations for high quality patient care, nursing excellence, and innovation in professional nursing practice. Magnet recognition is the highest possible organizational credential granted by the ANCC, the largest and most prominent nursing credentialing organization in the United States. Hospitals must excel in several areas, including nursing standards and practices, patient care, and innovations in nursing leadership and management to earn, and retain, Magnet status.
“We are incredibly honored to be Magnet designated once again,” said Toni von Wenckstern, chief nursing officer at Memorial Hermann-TMC. “The recognition underscores our commitment to foster an environment where nurses feel engaged, empowered and valued, directly benefiting our patients and their families through the delivery of safe, high-quality health care.”
Before a hospital is selected for Magnet recognition, ANCC completes a rigorous evaluation process that includes onsite visits, reviews of written documentation, staff and patient satisfaction surveys and interviews. Initial Magnet recognition is valid for four years and, during that time, hospitals and nursing staff are closely monitored, evaluated, and surveyed to ensure they remain in compliance with the program's high standards. At the end of the four-year period, hospitals must re-apply and again undergo the challenging evaluation process.
Studies have demonstrated that Magnet-recognized hospitals typically provide a higher quality of patient care, including lower mortality rates and increased patient satisfaction. Magnet hospitals also experience lower turnover and lower rates of burnout among nursing staff. The recognition is also directly linked to a hospital's ability to attract and retain qualified, highly educated nursing staff.
Memorial Hermann-TMC first earned Magnet recognition in 2014 and is currently one of only 44 hospitals in Texas, and 505 nationwide, to be designated as a Magnet facility. Memorial Hermann Greater Heights Hospital, Memorial Hermann Memorial City Medical Center, Memorial Hermann Southwest Hospital and Memorial Hermann The Woodlands Medical Center also are Magnet facilities.