Central Baptist Earns Magnet Re-designation

The American Nurses Credentialing Center’s (ANCC) Magnet Recognition Program® for excellence in nursing services has once again designated Central Baptist Hospital as a Magnet hospital.

In 2006, Central Baptist became the first non-teaching hospital in the state of Kentucky to earn Magnet status. Only 3 percent of hospitals who attempt redesignation actually achieve the goal, according to the ANCC.

“To earn Magnet status once is a tremendous accomplishment and a great source of pride for our nurses,” said Karen S. Hill, RN, MSN, NEA-BC, FACHE, vice president/nurse executive at Central Baptist.  “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.”

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,” said Hill. “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, and that’s why we continue to serve as a Magnet hospital today.”