Samaritan has been named a recipient of the Rural Hospital Achievement of Quality Excellence from the Washington State Hospital Association (WSHA) for its quality work. The Association presented the award during its Rural Hospital Leadership Conference in Chelan on June 28.

Samaritan earned the gold award distinction, which is the achievement’s highest designation. This year’s evaluation included looking at the organization’s response to fall prevention, sepsis and opioid harm prevention.

“This quality of excellence award is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our Samaritan professionals and the exceptional diligence of our quality and data team,” said April Luft, Samaritan Chief Nursing Officer. “We are proud to receive this recognition and strive every day to offer the best care to our friends and neighbors in this community.”

The award is given to hospitals that demonstrate remarkable dedication to health care quality. In health care, quality work focuses on improving processes and other evidence-based practices that benefit patient outcomes and reduce risk. To be recognized, hospitals must participate in data submission through the Washington State Healthcare Authority’s Medicaid Quality Incentive Program, which is managed by WSHA.

“We are incredibly proud of our Rural Hospital Achievement of Quality Excellence recipients,” WSHA Senior Vice President of Clinical Excellence Darcy Jaffe said. “The Association and our hospital members take great pride in providing patients with outstanding care, as quality is the cornerstone of all health care. Everyone, no matter where they live in the state, should be able to access quality health care, and our members help make that possible.”

About the Washington State Hospital Association

The Washington State Hospital Association advocates for and provides value to members in achieving their missions and improving the health of their communities. WSHA represents more than 100 hospitals and health systems in the state, including those that are non-profit, investor-owned, and county, state and military hospitals. The Quadruple Aim guides our members and our work as we strive to reduce the cost of health care and improve the patient experience, the clinician experience and the health of our communities. Visit www.wsha.org for more information.